A report is going around that claims Mazda is set to unveil its first EV at the Tokyo Motor Show. The report has been confirmed by Mazda and Mazda has prototypes with the powertrain underneath ready for test drives.
The prototypes use CX-30 crossover sheet metal, but the car that is shown off in Tokyo will be brand new. For now, the automaker is offering no details on what shape the vehicle will take.
The EV drivetrain will use a 35.5 kWh battery in the prototypes. The drivetrain will have 105 kW of power and 195 pound-feet of torque. The EV will be introduced next year for purchase. The EV will be offered in fully electric and with a range extender.
Details on the EV Drivetrain
The 35.5 kWh battery in the prototypes is designed to offer a balance between performance and range. While Mazda has not disclosed the exact range of the vehicle, industry experts estimate that it could be around 150-200 miles on a single charge, depending on driving conditions and usage. This range is competitive with other EVs in the market, such as the Nissan Leaf and the Hyundai Kona Electric.
The 105 kW power output translates to approximately 140 horsepower, which should provide adequate acceleration and performance for city and highway driving. The 195 pound-feet of torque ensures that the vehicle will have good low-end power, making it responsive in stop-and-go traffic.
Range Extender Option
In addition to the fully electric version, Mazda will offer a range extender option. This version will include a small gasoline engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, extending the vehicle’s range. This is particularly useful for drivers who need to travel longer distances and may not have access to charging stations. The range extender option aims to alleviate range anxiety, a common concern among potential EV buyers.
The range extender will not drive the wheels directly but will provide additional electricity to the battery, allowing the vehicle to travel further without needing to stop for a charge. This setup is similar to the one used in the BMW i3 with Range Extender, which has been well-received for its practicality and flexibility.
Design and Features
While the prototypes use CX-30 crossover sheet metal, the final design of the EV that will be unveiled in Tokyo is expected to be entirely new. Mazda is known for its sleek and stylish designs, and it is likely that the new EV will feature the company’s signature Kodo design language, which emphasizes elegance and dynamism.
Inside, the EV is expected to offer a modern and tech-savvy interior, with features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver assistance systems, and high-quality materials. Mazda has always focused on creating a driver-centric experience, and this new EV will likely continue that tradition with intuitive controls and a comfortable driving position.
Market Position and Competition
Mazda’s entry into the EV market comes at a time when many automakers are ramping up their electric vehicle offerings. The new EV will compete with other compact electric crossovers such as the Tesla Model Y, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Mazda’s reputation for building reliable and fun-to-drive vehicles could give it an edge in attracting buyers who are new to electric vehicles.
The introduction of the range extender option also sets Mazda apart from some of its competitors, offering a unique solution for those who are not yet ready to fully commit to an all-electric vehicle. This flexibility could help Mazda capture a broader audience and ease the transition to electric mobility.
In conclusion, Mazda’s upcoming EV represents a significant step for the automaker as it enters the growing electric vehicle market. With its combination of performance, design, and innovative features like the range extender, the new EV has the potential to make a strong impression when it is unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show.
via AutomotiveNews
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