Mazda has unveiled its first mass-production electric vehicle — a significant step for the automaker, as its lineup to-date includes only gasoline- and diesel-engine vehicles.
The model is known as the Mazda MX-30 and was revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. The automaker said the vehicle aims to create an experience for car buyers that allows them to “relax and be themselves.”
“In any era, Mazda wants people to experience exuberant moments in life through cars,” said Akira Marumoto, Mazda’s Representative Director, President and CEO at the show. “We will continue striving to deliver creative products and technologies so our customers will love and hold onto their Mazda for a long time.”
Mazda vehicles are often about creating a bond between driver and vehicle, and the new EV is no different. The OEM aims to continue that trend of creating a deeper bond while also making life with a car “a richer and more rewarding experience.”
More importantly is the fact that the OEM is ready to move forward with an EV in its portfolio, which may be an acknowledgement to a growth in potential consumer demand.
“Mazda developed new e-Skyactiv electric-drive technology to realize an EV that runs purely on electric power,” said the OEM in a news release. The company combined a system that uses a lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor.
“The high-voltage components that comprise the e-Skyactiv system include the motor, battery pack, inverter, and DC-DC converter,” said Mazda. “The motor, inverter, DC-DC converter and junction box are integrated into a single high-voltage unit that is mounted toward the front of the car.”
According to Autoblog, the new EV will be launched in 2020 and is reportedly destined for the European market. A plug-in hybrid is anticipated to land on the market sometime in 2021 or 2022.
