At Auto China 2024, Changan Mazda Automobile Corporation Ltd. made a significant announcement, revealing the Mazda EZ-6, an all-new electrified vehicle, and showcasing the Mazda Arata, a concept model of an electric vehicle.
The Mazda EZ-6, developed in collaboration with Mazda and Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd. (Changan Automobile), will mark the beginning of Mazda’s foray into the EV market in China, with plans for its launch by the end of 2024. Additionally, the Mazda Arata concept model is set to be produced as the second new electrified vehicle by the end of 2025, catering to the discerning Chinese market’s preferences for advanced vehicles.
Masahiro Moro, President & CEO of Mazda, expressed his enthusiasm during the Changan Mazda press conference, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the latest new energy vehicle (NEV) resulting from our collaboration with Mazda and Changan Automobile. The Mazda EZ-6 represents a fusion of Mazda’s design philosophy and Changan Automobile’s electrified technology, aimed at meeting the evolving needs of Chinese customers who seek advanced vehicles.”
The Mazda EZ-6 embodies Mazda’s renowned design language, KODO-Soul of Motion, while delivering signature driving performance characterized by Jinba-Ittai. This dedicated electrified model will be available in two versions: a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and a plug-in hybrid electrified vehicle (PHEV), allowing customers to tailor their choice according to their lifestyle and preferences.
The Mazda Arata, a design concept model, embodies Mazda’s philosophy of “Uplifting the Human Spirit,” aiming to offer a unique value proposition to customers. With its crossover SUV design, the Mazda Arata exudes elegance and sophistication, appealing to the refined tastes of Chinese consumers.
The Mazda EZ-6 showcases Mazda’s dynamic Soul of Motion design philosophy within the framework of the “Authentic Modern” theme, embodying the spirit of the electric vehicle era. Engineered to deliver a Jinba-Ittai driving experience, it offers precise handling and braking, seamlessly responding to the driver’s commands.
Safety and convenience take center stage with intelligent drive systems and smart cabin technology, including features like accident mitigation technology and voice-controlled intelligent parking. The BEV variant targets a driving range of approximately 600 km, while the PHEV model aims for over 1,000 km on a single tank of fuel.
On the other hand, the Mazda Arata design epitomizes the fusion of Soul and Technology themes, presenting a dynamic side profile with thick doors and a three-dimensional configuration characteristic of Mazda’s KODO design. Enhanced aerodynamics are achieved through strategically placed air tunnels, contributing to both environmental performance and a futuristic aesthetic.