Mazda 6e Set to Launch in Thailand in 2025 Amid Southeast Asian EV Growth
Mazda announces the launch of the Mazda 6e in Thailand in 2025 to expand its EV lineup in Southeast Asia. The vehicle, also known as the Mazda EZ-6 in China, achieved significant sales upon its launch in October 2024. With a substantial investment in manufacturing, Mazda aims to strengthen its position as a key player in the growing electric vehicle market while addressing sales challenges in China.
Mazda has announced the launch of the Mazda 6e, which is built by Changan Mazda and known in China as the Mazda EZ-6, in Thailand in 2025. This electric vehicle was revealed at the Brussels Motor Show on January 10 and will debut in Europe later this year. The introduction of the Mazda 6e is a strategic move by Mazda to expand its electric vehicle offerings in Thailand, a key automotive market in Southeast Asia.
The Mazda EZ-6 debuted in China on October 26, 2024, and achieved significant sales success with 2,445 units sold in November. It ranks as one of the top three mid-size new energy sedans. The vehicle operates on Changan’s EPA hybrid platform and is available in seven variants, priced between 139,800 and 179,800 yuan (approximately 19,300 to 24,800 USD). The offerings include both battery electric (BEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) models.
The BEV variant has a powerful 190 kW motor with a range of either 480 km or 600 km, while the EREV model combines a 1.5L engine with a 160 kW motor, providing a maximum range of 1,301 km. Notable features of the Mazda 6e include a 14.6-inch touchscreen, an AR-HUD display, a premium Sony audio system, and specially designed zero-gravity seats, enhancing overall driver and passenger comfort.
To boost its manufacturing capabilities in Thailand, Mazda and Mazda Thailand are investing 5 billion Thai baht (about 148.37 million USD). This investment aims to enhance the facility’s annual production capacity to 100,000 units, focusing on the production of compact SUVs for both local and export markets. Between 2025 and 2027, Mazda intends to launch five electrified models, with the Mazda 6e produced in collaboration with Changan Automobile.
Despite challenges in the Chinese market, where Changan Mazda reported a 28.28% year-over-year decrease in sales with only 6,604 vehicles sold in January 2025, the company is shifting aggressively towards electric vehicle production. The downward sales trend has continued for nine months, prompting Changan Mazda to expand its EV lineup with both BEV and EREV options. Furthermore, it is updating gasoline models and adjusting its marketing strategy to enhance competitiveness.
Mazda is strategically introducing the Mazda 6e to the Thai automotive market in 2025, reflecting a broader commitment to EV expansion in Southeast Asia. This move aligns with increasing demands for electrified vehicles, with significant investments aimed at enhancing manufacturing capabilities. Despite recent sales challenges in China, Mazda is adapting by strengthening its EV offerings and modernizing its gasoline vehicles to remain competitive.
Original Source: carnewschina.com
