drive Mazda’s EV evolution
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Like many car makers today, Mazda is busy reinventing itself and its product line-up in response to the shift to electric vehicles (EVs). The company has said a quarter of all its new models globally will be pure EVs by 2030, with all other models to have some elements of electrification. One of the first fruits of this labour arrived earlier this year in the form of the MX-30 M Hybrid, which has now been joined by the MX-30 Electric E35. The pair share the same attractively styled compact SUV body, with its coupe-like profile and unconventional reverse-opening ‘freestyle’ doors. Available in a single high-grade Astina variant, the MX-30 E35 costs a hefty $65,490, plus on-road costs, but boasts an excellent ANCAP five-star safety rating. Performance is brisk, courtesy of a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack and synchronous electric motor sending 107kW/271Nm to the front wheels. However, with a range of 224km, Mazda’s first EV lags behind rivals such as Hyundai’s Kona EV, which can cover 484km on a charge.
Photos: Mazda
P For more, visit mazda.com.au
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