Mazda Looks to China for Future Electric Vehicles

Mazda, one of Australia’s most beloved car brands, is finally making moves in the electric vehicle (EV) space, but it’s not going at it alone. Instead of pouring billions into developing EVs entirely in-house, the Japanese automaker is increasingly looking to its Chinese joint-venture partner, Changan Automobile, to help fast-track its transition into the electric era.

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This partnership has already resulted in the launch of the of the stunning Mazda EZ-6/6e, a liftback developed with Changan that is confirmed for global markets, including Australia. But now, Mazda is doubling down. It has announced plans to explore the development of two additional models with Changan, set to launch between 2028 and 2030. While there’s no official confirmation on whether these models will be exclusive to China, given the growing importance of the EV market worldwide, it’s highly likely these vehicles will make their way to other countries, including Australia.

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Why is Mazda Turning to China for EVs?

There’s a simple answer: efficiency and cost savings. Developing EVs from the ground up is an expensive and time-consuming process. Mazda has already signaled its intent to keep investments in electrification at around ¥1.5 trillion (A$15.8 billion), a figure lower than initially anticipated due to rising costs. One way to stick to this budget is by leaning on Changan’s existing expertise and battery supply chains, rather than reinventing the wheel.

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The EZ-6 liftback, for instance, is based on Changan’s Deepal L07, showcasing how Mazda is willing to rework existing platforms rather than build entirely from scratch. The upcoming SUV, tentatively dubbed the EZ-60 in China, is another example of this approach. Trademark filings suggest it may be exported globally under the name CX-6e, indicating that Australians could see this model in local showrooms in the not-too-distant future.

What This Means for Aussie EV Buyers

For Australians considering an EV, Mazda’s increasing reliance on Chinese-developed models could mean Mazda finally makes an EV model available to the Australian market. While the Mazda MX-30 was technically its first EV in Australian, its paltry 224km of range made it unsuitable for the Australian market.

Chinese EVs have come a long way in recent years, with brands like BYD and MG proving that China can produce affordable, high-tech electric cars. Mazda, known for its refined driving dynamics and stylish designs, could bring its own unique spin to these China-built EVs, giving Aussie buyers more variety at potentially lower prices.

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While there’s no official word on when these new models will arrive Down Under, the success of the EZ-6/6e in global markets will likely determine how quickly Mazda accelerates its rollout of Chinese-developed EVs.

A Glimpse at Mazda’s Future EV Lineup

Alongside its Changan-backed models, Mazda is still planning to develop its first completely in-house EV, built on a dedicated platform, by 2027. However, this process will take time and resources, making the Changan partnership all the more crucial in keeping Mazda competitive in the booming EV market.

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For now, all eyes are on the EZ-6/6e and the upcoming SUV, which could serve as the blueprint for Mazda’s next wave of EVs. If they prove successful, we might just see a steady flow of Chinese-developed Mazdas hitting Aussie roads in the years to come offering a blend of affordability, cutting-edge tech, and the brand’s signature driving experience.