Mazda EV

Internal combustion engines are here to stay for the foreseeable future, and Mazda is not keen on overspending for electric vehicle (EV) technology. Recently, Mazda’s EV initiatives have been lackluster, notably with the launch and subsequent withdrawal of the short-range MX-30 model from the Australian market after just a few years. This experiment certainly attracted attention and prompted questions about the company’s long-term EV strategy, especially as many competitors in Japan were introducing mass-market EVs.

Drivers anticipating an electric MX-5 will have to wait longer, as the current EV strategy does not fully commit to battery-electric vehicles. This month, Mazda introduced what it describes as a Lean Asset Strategy, outlining a plan that hinges on current partnerships for electric models in the near term. The company has announced a reduction in its previous EV investment from $13.3 billion to $10 billion, initially declared in 2022. Additionally, Mazda intends to lower the development costs for some of its upcoming EV models while utilising existing facilities instead of building new ones for production.

The automaker maintains a conservative outlook on EV adoption over the next five years. The years leading up to 2030 mark the beginning of electrification. As part of its 2030 Management Policy, the company will encourage electrification through various solutions to effectively address evolving customer demands and environmental standards. It seems I might have to wait a bit longer for an electric MX-5.