Mazda MX-30 is brand’s first EV, with sporty look and freestyle doors

Mazda Motor Corporation has unveiled its first mass-production electric vehicle, named Mazda MX-30, at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show.

A new addition to Mazda’s car lineup, the MX-30 is the automaker’s third new-generation model. Aiming to offer an experience that lets customers relax and be themselves and deepens the bond between car and owner, the model offers a creative time and space that invites new ways of using a vehicle.

Under the Car-as-Art ethos, the styling of MX-30 aims to raise its artistic value and expand the expressive range of Mazda’s Kodo—Soul of Motion design language. Based on a concept of “Human Modern,” the design stays grounded in the beautifully honed, handcrafted forms of Kodo, yet aligns itself with changing values and new lifestyles.

Spaces in and around the center console give the cabin an open feel, and environmentally conscious materials such as cork and fabrics made from recycled materials are used in ways that bring out their natural appeal, creating a comfortable interior space. In addition, the MX-30 adopts freestyle doors so customers can invent new and creative ways of using the car.

In line with the human-centric philosophy, Mazda engineers were determined to deliver the same Jinba-ittai driving joy that every Mazda offers in the EV as well. The model adopts Mazda’s new electric-drive technology, e–Skyactiv, and combines outstanding response with smooth dynamic behavior to achieve performance that drivers can enjoy naturally.

Powering the MX-30 is a 35.5 kWh battery pack, which disperses energy into a 106 kW electric motor, supported by 264 Nm. With a range of only 200 km on a charge, this Mazda is configured as a city commuting electric vehicle.

“In any era, Mazda wants people to experience exuberant moments in life through cars,” said Akira Marumoto, Mazda’s Representative Director, President and CEO at the show. “We will continue striving to deliver creative products and technologies so our customers will love and hold onto their Mazda for a long time.”

One of the most outstanding features of the MX-30 is its unique center-pillar-less Freestyle doors with custom-designed hinges that allow the front doors to open to 82° and rear doors to open to 80°. This not only makes entering and exiting the car and loading and unloading cargo easier but also provides easier access for strollers and wheelchairs. The wide angle to which the front doors open was designed to facilitate this wide variety of usage styles.

Mazda didn’t provide an on-sale date for the MX-30. We expect it will be available sometime in the next year.

Major specifications