Mazda expands electric vehicle lineup through Changan partnership

Mazda is expanding its electric vehicle lineup through a strategic partnership with the Chinese manufacturer Changan. The company’s current EV offerings, including the 6e and CX-6e, are built upon Changan’s Deepal L07 and S07 platforms. These vehicles are manufactured in Nanjing at a facility that adheres to Mazda’s production standards, while chassis development and driving dynamics are handled by Mazda’s European team in Frankfurt.

According to Vineshe Bhindi, head of Mazda’s Australian division, the company plans to introduce a third and fourth electric model between 2027 and 2028. Potential upcoming models include a compact electric SUV based on the Deepal S05 and a larger three-row family SUV.

This expansion is driven by shifting consumer demand toward electric mobility due to rising fuel costs and the need to meet strict emission standards, such as Australia’s NVES. Increasing the share of zero-emission vehicles is critical for Mazda to lower its average fleet CO2 emissions and avoid regulatory penalties, particularly as sales for some traditional models have seen recent declines.