Mazda North American Operations has announced that it will discontinue the all-electric MX-30 model for the United States market after the 2023 model year.
The MX-30 was exclusively sold in California, and unfortunately, it hasn’t found many buyers. In 2021, Mazda sold 181 MX-30s, and in 2022, 324 were purchased. However, sales have been dwindling, with only 66 units sold until June of this year.
Instead of pursuing fully electric vehicles, Mazda is shifting its focus in the U.S. towards plug-in hybrids. Earlier this year, they launched the CX-90 PHEV, which offers a 26-mile electric range. Additionally, within the next year, Mazda plans to introduce a smaller CX-70 with a plug-in variant.
“Mazda will discontinue MX-30 EV for the U.S. market following the 2023 model year. Our current U.S. electrification efforts are focused on large platform PHEVs, such as the first-ever 2024 CX-90 PHEV and upcoming CX-70 PHEV, as well as introducing CX-50 Hybrid into our lineup to address the specific needs of the U.S. market,” Mazda said in a statement.
Despite the decision to discontinue the MX-30 EV in the U.S., the 2023 model is still listed on the website, available in two trim levels with MSRPs of $34,110 and $37,120. Both versions feature a single electric motor rated at 143 horsepower, but their range is somewhat limited, with an EPA-estimated autonomy of only 100 miles (161 km). The 35.5 kWh battery pack supports DC fast charging, taking 36 minutes to charge from 20 to 80 percent. Mazda also provides a 120V charging cable for household outlets and a connector compatible with most public charging stations.
Interestingly, the MX-30 continues to be available overseas, not only as an EV but also as a plug-in hybrid called the MX-30 R-EV, featuring a rotary engine as a range extender. This engine supplies power to the 17.8 kWh battery pack that drives the electric motor, producing 164 hp, and is reputed to be slightly quicker than the battery-electric variant.
