With the latest developments in the automotive industry, those who were behind on the electrification front were ultimately better off. While Honda experienced a $15,9-billion loss due to its strategic retreat from mass-electrification, Mazda managed to dodge that bullet altogether. Unlike Honda, Mazda only had one BEV model - the slow-selling MX-30, which utilized a rotary engine as a generator.
Mazda reportedly cut its EV investments by 20 percent, to 1.2 trillion yen ($7.6 billion), instead focusing on hybrid vehicles. That said, the company is still planning to release three EV models by 2030. The first one was originally planned to debut in 2026 as a 2027 model, but is now been moved towards 2029. The first fully-electric, in-house-built Mazda model is expected to be a midsize crossover / SUV, similar to the CX-5, which is getting a new hybrid variant next year. Last year, Yahoo reported on spy footage of the first Mazda EV SUV prototype, which seems to be based on an existing SUV model, but features a closed grille.
Skyactiv-Z engine to be widely featured in future Mazda models.
We already know that the next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata will get a larger, but more efficient engine in the form of a new Skyactiv-Z unit. As with other Skyactiv engines, this will be an entire family of powertrains, “geared” for different applications, including hybrid and non-hybrid. The Japanese carmaker already assured that the lightweight roadster will not become electrified, at least for another generation.
The Skyactiv-Z engine will continue to rely on clever engineering, including elements of the diesel cycle (as seen on other Skyactiv engines). It will also rely on a very lean mixture that maximizes efficiency and reduces wasted energy.
The 3.3-liter Skyactiv-G engine as used in Mazda’s larger SUV models (CX-70 through CX-90) remains unchanged for now. These engines already cover the strict Euro 7 emissions regulations. Future variants of Mazda’s inline-six may benefit from “lessons” learned through the Skyactiv-Z engine.
Mazda’s other interesting project.
After conflicting reports, rumors, and speculation, we got confirmation through Japanese publication, BestCarWeb, that a Mazda rotary sports car is happening after all, and it will make a lot more power than initially believed. Things like 500 horsepower and the ability to run on electricity alone for a limited time were mentioned.
Despite strong strategic partnerships, Mazda is a relatively small company, and taking a financial hit similar to the one Honda experienced, will likely have much stronger negative effects on the company. Mazda played its cards smart by waiting out the turbulent times, which is why the company is prepared to move, albeit cautiously, towards electrification. Mazda is setting itself up for a strong presence in the hybrid and electric segments. The company has already secured a deal with Panasonic, which ensures a reliable supply of batteries.
“Mazda will navigate the shift with virtually no impairments or write-downs… We’ve made the decision before we started. For battery EVs we were always careful”, CEO Masahiro Moro said.
Mazda’s current direction is a good example of smart management and vision. A hybrid CX-5 and an EV equivalent are bound to boost sales and profit. I am more curious about the future Miata and what the flagship sports car would be like. What are your thoughts on Mazda’s approach to electrification? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Related story: Electrified Crankshafts Could Be The Next Stage Of Evolution For The Internal-Combustion Engines
About the author
Dimitar Angelov has been an automotive journalist since 2014. His passion for cars and motorcycles led him to take up classic car restoration at the Classic Car Museum in Malta. While living there, he also graduated with a Master's in Media and Communications. Aside from Torquenews, his work can also be seen on Topspeed.com, HotCars.com, Motorheads.com, Jalopnik.com, and his own website, Ridereverie.com, where he also includes motorcycle content.
Image source: Mazda press
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