Mazda Introducing EV Next Year And Plug-In Hybrids In 2021-22

Mazda will launch a handful of new vehicles and powertrains in the coming years to ensure it meets tougher CO2 emission targets in Europe.

While speaking with Auto News and quizzed about how Mazda will hit emissions targets, chief executive Akira Marumoto confirmed that the car manufacturer will introduce its first all-electric vehicle next year and follow it up with various plug-in hybrid models from 2021 or 2022.

“First, the Skyactiv-X engine we are launching this year emits less than 100g/km of CO2. Second, the first Mazda battery-electric vehicle will hit the market next year. Finally, we will introduce plug-in hybrid models from 2021 or 2022. So we will eventually achieve the [emissions] target, although we will have some difficulties in 2020,” Marumoto said.

Also Read: Mazda’s First EV Will Arrive In 2020, Will Be A Standalone Model

Details about Mazda’s upcoming electric vehicle remain somewhat limited but we were first told about the EV last year and received confirmation that it will be a standalone model, not one based around an existing ICE-powered Mazda. In addition, it has been confirmed that the car will feature Mazda’s own powertrain technology and not the electric systems which it is developed with Toyota and Denso.

In the meantime, Mazda is working on mild-hybrid versions of its upcoming Skyactiv-X powertrain. Work has also been done to improve the efficiency of the diesel engines it uses in vehicles like the Mazda6 and CX-5. Marumoto believes that for SUVs and large sedans, the most efficient powertrain moving forward “will be a diesel coupled with an electric motor.”