AUTO

Previewing Mazda’s Electrified Future: The EZ-6 and Arata

April 30, 2024

Mazda introduced the Mazda EZ-6 and Mazda Arata at Auto China 2024.
The Mazda EZ-6 offers both BEV and PHEV variants with impressive ranges.
The Mazda Arata concept car embodies Mazda’s futuristic design philosophy.

Mazda has unveiled its latest rush into the electrified vehicle market at Auto China 2024, showcasing two new models designed to captivate Chinese consumers. The all-new Mazda EZ-6 and the futuristic Mazda Arata concept car provide a sneak peek into Mazda’s future elec t ric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) lineup in China. It also reflects the company’s innovative design philosophy, seamless integration of advanced technology, and strategic collaboration with Changan Mazda and Changan Automobile.

The Mazda EZ-6 represents the first in a new series of electrified vehicles developed in partnership with Mazda Motor Corporation and Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd. (Changan Automobile). The EZ-6 is expected to be available in the Chinese market by late 2024 due to the increasing need for EVs in China.

Mazda’s President & CEO, Masahiro Moro, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to introduce the all-new new energy vehicle (NEV) developed in alliance with Mazda and Changan Automobile. The Mazda EZ-6 is the latest electrified vehicle that combines Mazda’s strengths with Changan Automobile’s electrified technology. Going forward, Mazda will continue to work with Changan Automobile to turn Mazda’s China business around by introducing its unique products that meet the needs of Chinese customers who prefer advanced vehicles.”

Mazda EZ-6 BEV PHEV Concept interior, seats

The EZ-6 truly shines with its exceptional design, performance, and advanced technology. It represents Mazda’s KODO-Soul of Motion design language, along with its Jinba-ittai philosophy, which focuses on the seamless connection between the car and the driver. With its modern and flowing coupe shape, the vehicle exemplifies Mazda’s “Authentic Modern” theme, presenting an elegant appearance perfectly suited for the EV era.

The EZ-6 offers both Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and PHEV variants, allowing customers to choose a powertrain that suits their lifestyles. The BEV model is expected to offer a range of around 373 miles (600 kilometers), while the PHEV variant can achieve over 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) on a single tank of fuel.

In terms of handling, the EZ-6 features a balanced 50:50 weight distribution, a front strut suspension, and a rear multi-link suspension, delivering a smooth driving experience. Safety and convenience are further enhanced by intelligent drive support systems and advanced accident mitigation technology. An intelligent parking feature allows drivers to park the EZ-6 using voice commands, even from outside the vehicle. The smart cabin technology offers versatile control options, including voice, touch, and gesture recognition.

Specifications for the Mazda EZ-6 include a length of 4,921mm, a width of 1,890mm, and a height of 1,485mm, with 19-inch tires and rear-wheel drive.

The Mazda Arata design concept, also unveiled at Auto China 2024, presents a futuristic and modern crossover SUV that shows Mazda’s philosophy of “Uplifting the Human Spirit.” Its sleek design, with strong, three-dimensional door configurations and cross-wing rear lamps, reflects the dynamic shapes associated with KODO design while highlighting a new direction for Mazda.

Aerodynamic enhancements, such as air tunnels on the hood, front bumper, and D-pillars, contribute to the vehicle’s environmental performance while lending it a futuristic appearance.

With these new electrified offerings, Mazda continues to pursue its Human-Centric value of delivering the “Joy of Driving” and aims to create moving experiences in customers’ daily lives.

Both the Mazda EZ-6 and Arata highlight the company’s commitment to providing innovative electric vehicles tailored to the Chinese market, expanding Mazda’s lineup of electrified products to meet the needs of more customers.