Mazda cuts $3.3 billion on electric cars, but prepares new CX-5 Hybrid
Mazda is changing its electrification strategy - as part of a new "lean asset strategy," the Japanese automaker will cut its investment in electric cars by $3.3 billion, instead focusing on next-generation hybrids and internal combustion engines. The main new feature is the SkyActiv-Z unit, which will debut in the next-generation hybrid version of the Mazda CX-5 by 2027.
Here's What We Know
Mazda calls the period to 2030 "the dawn of electrification" and continues to pursue a "tiered strategy" of offering internal combustion engines, hybrids and electric vehicles depending on demand.
The company has cut its investment in electric vehicles from ¥2 trillion ($13.3bn) to ¥1.5 trillion ($10bn), made possible by collaborations with companies such as Changan, Toyota, Denso and BluE Nexus.
Another cost-saving method is to co-produce electric and internal combustion engine vehicles on the same assembly lines. By doing so, costs can be cut by 85 per cent compared to building a separate plant for battery cars. Mazda is also introducing AI technologies, autonomous transporters (AGVs) and Factory Over the Air (Factory OTA) software updates.
Mazda's new electric vehicles
Mazda also confirmed that apart from the Mazda6e electric hatchback already introduced in China and Europe, it is creating a new electric SUV with China's Changan. It will probably be called the CX-6e.
There will also be another electric car in 2027, based on Mazda's own platform designed for different battery types. Production will take place in Japan and the batteries will be supplied by Panasonic Energy. This model will enter the markets of Japan, Europe and the US.
New SkyActiv-Z engine
Mazda is banking on a new generation of internal combustion engines, stating that the SkyActiv-Z is "an approximation of perfect combustion". The engines in this engine family meet stringent Euro 7 (EU), LEV4 and Tier 4 (US) eco-standards. The company promises four- and six-cylinder versions. The first car with the new internal combustion engine will be the next-generation CX-5, which will get a hybrid version by 2027.
Source: Mazda