Japanese legacy automaker Mazda officially confirmed plans to launch a new all-electric vehicle model in 2025, Automotive News indicated in its recent report.
The announcement may not be as remarkable as other automakers’ advanced electrification strategies, but it is still a major advancement for the brand’s shift to electric mobility.
What’s currently known about the inaugural Mazda EV?
Mazda North America CEO Tom Donnelly told the publication that the Japanese automaker will finally have a battery-electric vehicle offering in 2025.
However, the Mazda Chief omitted to disclose more details about the mystery BEV model. CEO Donnelly only teased that it may arrive as a crossover with an old nameplate.
It also plans to launch more models depending on the level of customer demand. Interestingly, the new model may also succeed the CX-5, according to InsideEVs. It apparently has extreme similarities with the CX-50.
Mazda’s current NEV portfolio
Before the arrival of the new BEV model in 2025, Mazda plans to continue expanding its plug-in vehicle portfolio.
“Plug-in hybrid is the right technology for the marketplace today, given any number of challenges in terms of infrastructure and everything else. We’re committed to an electrified future, but for the near term, we feel like we have the right technology.”
Mazda North America CEO Tom Donnelly
Notably, Mazda currently has a limited new energy vehicle (NEV) portfolio. Its CX-90 PHEV is undoubtedly competitive in terms of performance, but it sells at a high price.
Overseas, it sells the smaller CX-60 Hybrid and Mazda 2 Hybrid. Meanwhile, the Mazda MX-30 EV only offered a 100-mile driving range and only hit the Californian market. The report noted that “it was around for about five minutes before being canceled.”
Mazda to employ one platform for both EV and ICE models
Gizmochina reported Mazda’s plans to equip its upcoming electric vehicle models with the same platform as its internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings.
This strategy will facilitate lower production costs, resulting in affordable products. However, it will lose its potential to benefit from the $7,500 US federal tax credit as it requires EVs to undergo domestic final assembly.
“We are looking at a segment that will appeal to would-be EV buyers.”
Mazda Chief Executive Masahiro Moro
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Mazda declared last fall plans to offer a series of new BEV models from 2028 to 2030. The Japanese automaker expects these models to account for 25% to 40% of its overall global volume.
The launch of the new BEV model in 2025 will kick off Mazda’s attempt to catch up in the BEV segment. Hopefully, it will catch up in the rapidly growing industry led by the pioneer Tesla.
