Mazda is preparing to launch its first fully electric global vehicle, signaling a bold move into the EV space while expressing confidence in its ability to navigate tightening tariff regimes. The company’s executives believe the new EV will find success despite growing trade tensions, particularly between China, the U.S., and the European Union.
Set for launch in 2027, Mazda’s new EV is being developed in collaboration with partners like Panasonic to source battery cells outside China. This strategic sourcing aims to avoid tariffs and qualify for key incentives, especially under the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which mandates local or allied sourcing for subsidies.
Masahiro Moro, Mazda’s CEO, affirmed that the automaker is actively monitoring global trade shifts and adjusting its supply chains accordingly. He emphasized Mazda’s focus on keeping the vehicle cost-competitive without compromising on quality or performance, a challenge many legacy automakers face in the EV transition.
While Mazda currently lags behind rivals in the EV race, the company sees its upcoming model as a turning point. Unlike its limited-range MX-30, this new EV will be a mass-market offering, built on a dedicated platform designed to compete with global leaders like Tesla and Hyundai.
Mazda also hinted at flexible manufacturing strategies, possibly assembling the vehicle in regions that help reduce tariff burdens. The carmaker is reportedly evaluating production sites in North America and Southeast Asia to tap into regional trade advantages and demand.
With rising protectionist measures and global EV competition heating up, Mazda’s bet on a well-positioned, tariff-resilient electric car could help it reclaim relevance in the evolving automotive landscape. The next few years will determine whether this calculated gamble pays off.
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