Mazda unveiled the all-electric CX-30 in China

KUALA LUMPUR: Auto Shanghai is one of the first major auto shows that made a return after the pandemic hit the world. The stage has different latest cars on preview from several big automakers, including Mazda presenting its latest electric vehicle, dubbed as the CX-30 EV. After the MX-30, it is the brand’s second mass-production electric car.

As the name implies, the electric vehicle is based on the ICE-powered CX-30 and will be manufactured by the Changan-Mazda joint venture. The automaker has not yet revealed the powertrain details of the EV, but it does mention that it will underpin the SkyActiv-Vehicle Architecture borrowed from the all-electric MX-30. 

On the basis that two Mazda EVs running on the same platform, we expect the CX-30 EV could get a very similar electric propulsion to the MX-30. The latter underlies a front electric motor powered by a 35.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the motor generates a maximum power of 143 PS and a peak torque of 264 Nm. The battery supports AC as well as DC charging; with a 50-kW input, it can be charged from zero to 80% in almost 30 to 40 minutes.

Other than the powertrain, the electric CX-30 also has some other distinguishing features when compared to the standard model. The visible exterior tweaks include a more pronounced front bumper lip, metallic side steps, flared wheel arches, different rocker panels with e-SkyActiv badging, and roof rails. The EV stands on 19-inch alloy wheels borrowed from the larger CX-5.

About the CX30 EV interior design, there is no information available as of now. However, it is expected to be the same as the combustion model with some minor tweaks. The main highlights of the ICE version include an 8.8-inch infotainment display and a semi-digital instrument cluster.

As of now, Mazda is likely to sell the CX-30 EV exclusively in China where it does not have the MX-30 on offer. The model’s launch is slated to take place in the second half of the year.

Also read: Malaysian-spec Mazda MX-5 RF updated for 2021