Mazda: When Will a Wave of Electric Cars Arrive?
This page is translated from the original post "Mazda : à quand une vague de voitures électriques ?" in French.
- 23/11/2022 12:00
The Japanese automaker Mazda is updating its hybrid and electric vehicle strategy, with a surprise concept.
With only one model in its lineup and modest sales, Japanese brands struggle to make their mark in electric cars. Mazda is among them with its crossover MX-30. A vehicle that fails to impress due to its limited range, despite a relatively attractive price of €36,750. To move forward, the manufacturer reveals a new plan.
Three Phases of Electrification
Mazda had already outlined the main points in April: zero accidents by 2040 or carbon neutrality by 2050. An ambitious but still vague plan. This week, the brand provides more details for 2023 and 2024. We are informed of the arrival of a range extender version for the Mazda MX-30 R-EV or a new large hybrid SUV, the CX-80, the big brother of the CX-60.
For the period 2025-2027, the Japanese company will accelerate its electrification and launch new electric vehicles. Not out of conviction, but due to pressure from European legislation. We understand that the real electric wave will only arrive after 2028 and until 2030. It is only in this “third phase” that Mazda will complete its electrified range. It has formed numerous partnerships for the development of propulsion systems, as well as batteries via Envision AESC (used in the Nissan LEAF for example).
An Electric Mazda MX-5 or RX-8?
But concretely, how many electric cars does Mazda aim for by 2030? We still don’t know, except that they will represent 25% to 40% of its sales, and the goal of 100% electric remains uncertain. However, the manufacturer shares two surprise images attached to its announcement.
Without any name, a virtual concept car hints at a future coupe. Likely electric given its very low front hood, could it be a descendant of the MX-5? Too large, however; it’s probably closer to a new RX-8.
RX is also synonymous with rotary engine, possibly using synthetic fuel? It’s possible, considering Mazda has joined the eFuel Alliance or is exploring biofuel from algae (a theoretical solution discussed for over 10 years).
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