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How Mazda’s Lean Approach Will Shape Its Electric Vehicle Future

The Japanese car manufacturer is reducing its electric vehicle production budget by as much as $3.3 billion through the implementation of the “Lean Asset Strategy.”

Mazda’s initial foray into electric vehicles with the MX-30 didn’t fare well. Their recent offering, the EZ-6, essentially uses technology from Changan under the hood. This suggests that Mazda isn’t fully committing to electrification, possibly due to concerns about potential financial losses from unsuccessful large-scale investments in this area. As such, they’re opting for caution by collaborating with other firms for their electric car developments, thereby cutting down expenses.

The company reversed its earlier electric vehicle strategies, reducing commitments amounting to roughly $3.36 billion—which represents approximately one-third of their intended investment in electrification—up until 2030. Mazda has been collaborating with various partners on this front.
the aforementioned Changan
,
Toyota
And various other brands contributed to making this happen as part of the company’s new “Lean Asset Strategy.” This program seeks to reduce expenses, enhance productivity, and increase the automaker’s adaptability through collaborative efforts.

Mazda views the timeframe leading up to 2030 as “the dawn of electrification,” marking a shift from combustion engines to electric power. This perspective is guiding their present approach, which explains why their electric vehicle initiatives are currently limited.

Significant investments are needed for batteries, but demand remains unpredictable,” stated Mazda’s President and CEO, Masahiro Moro. “Therefore, we plan to make prudent and effective investments while keeping an eye on technological advancements. The landscape around electrification… encompasses numerous uncertainties. Despite this, as a smaller entity within the sector, Mazda continues to pursue our Lean Asset Strategy aimed at reducing operational risks and enhancing overall business effectiveness.

Photo by: Mazda

Mazda EZ-6

In 2024, Mazda experienced a positive year yet managed to sell just 1.2 million vehicles. Unlike bigger players such as Toyota, Volkswagen, or Stellantis, which enjoy more substantial revenue streams, Mazda cannot depend on similar financial backing. The company frequently diverges from mainstream automotive practices; an example was their introduction of the Skyactiv range using naturally-aspirated engines at a time when most manufacturers were transitioning towards turbocharged technology. However, this distinctiveness forms a key aspect of Mazda’s allure and generally benefits the brand positively. Their electric vehicle plan aligns perfectly with this established approach.

The updated brief strategy involves beginning sales activities.
the EZ-6
And its crossover counterpart (possibly named the CX-6e) in Europe, despite these vehicles
will incur tariffs
Since these models are manufactured in China. Mazda is developing its distinct electric vehicle, scheduled to be unveiled in 2027 alongside a newly created internal platform.

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The forthcoming electric vehicle (EV) from Mazda will be a crossover manufactured in Japan, intended as a global model. Therefore, it should become accessible in both Europe and North America. The primary attraction of this new EV will be its affordability, and Mazda plans to produce it alongside their internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles on the same assembly line. This approach aims to avoid the high costs associated with setting up a separate facility specifically for EVs.

Mazda is also progressing with their work on internal combustion engines. Their most recent project is the 2.5-liter Skyactiv Z inline-four cylinder engine set for release soon.
the all-new CX-5
scheduled for release in 2027 and must adhere to the most recent emission standards. This engine is expected to be integrated into a hybrid setup. Additionally, the fuel-efficient technology featured in the Skyactiv Z engine will also be incorporated.
Mazda’s six-cylinder engines
As well as its forthcoming rotary component aimed at aiding the latter in reducing emissions and boosting efficiency.

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