You may think Mazda is behind on its electric vehicle strategy, but it doesn’t seem to be causing any worry for the carmaker as demand for its petrol- and diesel-powered models is still strong.
However, Chief Executive Officer Masahiro Moro recently told Automotive News that change is afoot, with the brand planning to release seven to eight EVs by 2030.
The incoming electric models are believed to account for 25 to 40 per cent of Mazda’s global sales, which means the brand still plans for a majority of its future line-up to feature combustion engines. That’s because Moro feels that demand for EVs is still somewhat uncertain and instead thinks it’s best to ramp up the company’s electrification strategy slowly.
“In the current market, the reality for electrification, in particular for battery EVs, is the pace is not that high. So we may start a little slower in terms of the ramp-up. Not necessarily in terms of timing, but the ramp-up,” he says.
“That is why I call us an intentional follower of EVs. Between now and 2030 is the dawn period of electrification – we have to go over this bumpy ride.”
According to Automotive News, we can expect to see the launch of the first fully electric Mazdas between 2025 and 2027.
Moro also said the new models will be developed in conjunction with Toyota to keep costs down. They will also be offered with single and dual-motor drivetrains in a range of body styles.
The Japanese carmaker currently only offers one EV, the MX-30, which will no longer be produced after 2023. However, Mazda New Zealand will continue to offer the model in hybrid and fully electric form as part of its commitment to electrification.
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