Collaboration with Changan Accelerates Mazda's NEV Market Push

JAKARTA – At the Beijing Auto Show 2026, Mazda reaffirmed its commitment to actively participating in the global electrification transition rather than merely observing it. Through its collaboration with Changan, the Japanese manufacturer is optimistic about competing in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment.

Quoted from Carnewschina.com on Monday (27/4/2026), Mazda’s Senior Executive Director, Toru Nakajima, confidently stated that the company has found the right rhythm to navigate the electric vehicle market in China.

Mazda’s first foray into the NEV segment was with the MX-30 in 2019. Unfortunately, the vehicle saw limited interest in the market. It then followed up with the CX-30 EV.

However, these setbacks provided valuable lessons. Mazda has now shifted its strategy by leveraging its strategic partnership with Changan. This synergy has resulted in the utilisation of Changan’s EPA architecture to produce the 6e sedan (known domestically as EZ-6) and the mid-size SUV CX-6e (known as EZ-60).

Mazda Senior Executive Director Toru Nakajima emphasised that the two-decade partnership with Changan has grown even stronger. This collaboration forms the foundation for Mazda to continue launching future NEV products that are more relevant to Chinese consumer needs.

The results are already evident. According to data from China EV DataTracker, Mazda recorded deliveries of 91,061 units from April 2025 to March 2026. This figure exceeded the company’s internal target of 76,000 units, representing an increase of nearly 20%.

The dominance of the new models is increasingly apparent. The combined sales of the EZ-6 and EZ-60 contributed more than 40% to Mazda’s monthly sales figures in the first quarter of 2026.

If this positive trend is consistently maintained, the Changan-Mazda collaboration will not only bolster its presence in the Chinese market but also set a new record in automotive history as a successful joint venture transitioning from conventional engines to the era of new energy vehicles.

The Mazda 6e is reportedly slated for launch in Indonesia in the near future. Recently, sightings of the vehicle, camouflaged with stickers, were spotted during road tests.

The SUV version, the CX-6e, is not out of the question for the domestic market either. This is particularly true given the substantial demand in the electric SUV segment.