Mazda has announced plans to reveal its first mass-production battery electric vehicle at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show in October.
It’s a big step for the automaker, who had yet to dip its toes in a significant way in the electrification market like many large vehicle manufacturers have done. The move also points to the importance of EVs in today’s global market, both for OEMs and consumers.
“A completely new model, the EV will be the third instalment in the automaker’s new-generation lineup,” said Mazda in a news release. “Developed in accordance with Mazda’s human-centric philosophy and making full use of the benefits of electric drive technology, it offers performance drivers can enjoy effortlessly and whole-heartedly.”
The world premiere of the model will take place during a morning press conference in front of a host of automotive journalists two days before the show is officially open to the public.
Other models that will be on display at the show include the Mazda MX-5 (or the Roadster, in Japan), the Mazda3 hatchback and sedan, Mazda CX-30, CX-5 and CX-8.
The show is open to the public from October 25 through November 4.
