Mazda Chooses Separate EV Path

American Production On Hold for Now

Competition to be the frontrunner in the United States electric car scene is gaining momentum as producers persist to add to their EV production. Ford has putted out $3.5 billion toward setting up a manufacturing facility devoted solely to EVs in Michigan. Charging forward, American start-ups Lucid and Rivian are challenging established EV makers such as Tesla.

Amid the rapid transition to electric vehicles, Mazda appears unconcerned about the need to construct such cars in America. As reported by Automotive News, new Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro commented that they could wait until 2028 before initiating localized production of EVs across North America. This is a later timeline compared to what was planned initially by former Mazda CEO Akira Marumoto.

Mazda is devoting its $10.6 billion expenditure for electrification into exportation of electric vehicles from Japan, to be underway by 2030. Their plan carries a third-stage ranging process commencing in the year 2028.

“Our assumption for North American production of EVs is Phase 3 timing,” said Moro. He further noted that Mazda is planning two varieties of full electric vehicles. “We have a plan to introduce two types of EVs in the next phase,” he said. “The first will be a mass-market model, while the second will be a more premium offering.” Moro went on to explain that Mazda is aiming to have both models available in North America by the end of Phase 3.

One vehicle will feature a base architecture which is established and able to operate with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid powertrain systems. Furthermore, another EV will be built on a specialized platform. These two designs will debut in the 2025-2027 period’s second stage.

Moro conceded that the company doesn’t possess the requisite funds to make an investment in a new electrically operated vehicle manufacturing facility in North America. Mazda could maintain two production plants within the region, however Moro stated they are not deliberating manufacturing EVs at either of those sites presently.

The Mazda MX-30 is the exclusive electric vehicle in the organization’s selection. It only offers a range of 100 miles, which may not seem to be enough to compete. Even the least expensive electric car in the United States, the Chevrolet Bolt, can complete up to 259 miles on one full battery charge. Nonetheless, Mazda has suggested that it would be plausible for the American-spec MX-30 to include the rotary range extender.

Only time will elucidate how the tranquil methodology for electrification will culminate for Mazda. Of what we are aware is that Moro is well-versed in the North American area. He had been at the helm of Mazda Motor of America before occupying the foremost position at the corporation’s command center in 2021.