Mazda is revving up its commitment to electric vehicles (EVs) with ambitious plans that will reshape the brand’s future in the automotive landscape. Currently, Mazda has rolled out its EZ-6 electric sedan in China, utilizing a platform known as EPA1 that it has sourced from the Chinese automaker Changan. While this partnership has allowed Mazda to dip its toes into the electric vehicle market, the company is looking to break free and make a significant mark with its very own dedicated EV platform, expected to make its grand entrance in 2027.
On March 26, Mazda gave enthusiasts and future buyers a sneak peek at this upcoming platform. It embraces the popular skateboard-style design, where the vehicle’s flat battery pack is ingeniously integrated into the floor. Think of it as laying a strong foundation for a building; this design approach not only maximizes space but also enhances performance and stability. Mazda has indicated that this new platform will be quite versatile, accommodating various battery configurations and different vehicle types, while also being flexible enough to receive future software updates that could enhance performance and user experience.
The first model to be produced on this dedicated platform is likely to be an SUV. Manufacturing will take place in Japan, ensuring that this car embodies the renowned craftsmanship and precision associated with Japanese automaking. Further adding to Mazda’s innovation, this new SUV will employ batteries made with cutting-edge cells developed in collaboration with Panasonic, a leader in battery technology. This partnership hints at an exciting future where energy efficiency and performance go hand in hand.
But that’s not all. Although still under wraps, there’s chatter about a potential plug-in hybrid variant that may feature a small rotary gas engine serving as a range extender. This technology isn’t completely foreign to Mazda, as they’ve already implemented similar systems in some markets with their MX-30 electric crossover. If this moves forward, it could offer drivers the best of both worlds: the sustainability of electric driving along with the reassuring range offered by a hybrid setup.
Before this highly anticipated SUV rolls off the assembly line, Mazda will introduce another electric crossover leveraging the Changan-sourced platform. This vehicle, the Mazda Arata concept, has already created buzz in the automotive community, with a preview set for 2024 and promises of exciting features that could set new standards in the crossover market.
Mazda is not stopping at electric vehicles either. Recently, the automaker provided updates on its new Skyactiv-Z family of four-cylinder engines, initially unveiled last fall. These engines are designed to perform efficiently in hybrid applications, indicating that Mazda is keen on blending traditional combustion technology with modern electrification. The first application of this powertrain will debut in 2027 with the next-generation CX-5, which has already been spotted undergoing testing and is highly anticipated to launch later this year.
As Mazda pulls back the curtain on these developments, what does this mean for you, the consumer? It signals that the brand is not just keeping pace with industry trends but is actively shaping the future of mobility in a way that aligns with consumer needs for sustainability, efficiency, and exciting driving experiences. Whether you’re a long-time Mazda enthusiast or considering your first Mazda vehicle, you can look forward to a range of innovative offerings that promise to deliver on performance while reducing environmental impact. It’s an exciting time to be part of the Mazda community, and these advancements are just the beginning.
Image Source: Vladi333 / Shutterstock
