Mazda 6e to launch in Thailand in 2025 amid Southeast Asia EV expansion

Mazda announced that the Mazda 6e (built by Changan Mazda, known as the Mazda EZ-6 in China) will enter the Thai market in 2025. The vehicle debuted at the Brussels Motor Show in Belgium on January 10 and will launch in Europe later this year.

Thailand, one of Southeast Asia’s key automotive production hubs, has seen increasing demand for electric vehicles. Mazda, which has been operating in Thailand since 1955, is expanding its EV offerings in the region by introducing the Mazda 6e.

The Mazda EZ-6, launched in China on October 26, 2024, sold 2,445 units in November, ranking among the top three mid-size new energy sedans. Built on Changan’s EPA hybrid platform, the EZ-6 is available in seven models, priced between 139,800 and 179,800 yuan (19,300 to 24,800 USD), with battery electric (BEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) versions. The BEV version features a 190 kW motor with a range of 480 km or 600 km, while the EREV version combines a 1.5L engine with a 160 kW motor, offering a range of up to 1,301 km. Key features include a 14.6-inch touchscreen, AR-HUD, Sony audio system, and zero-gravity seats.

As part of its strategy, Mazda and Mazda Thailand are investing 5 billion Thai baht ( 148.37 million USD) to strengthen their Thailand manufacturing base. With an annual production capacity of 100,000 units, the facility will focus on producing compact SUVs for export to Japan and ASEAN markets and domestic sales in Thailand. Between 2025 and 2027, Mazda plans to launch five electrified models, including the Mazda 6e, which is being produced in collaboration with Changan Automobile in China.

Meanwhile, Mazda vehicle sales face challenges in the Chinese market. In January 2025, Changan Mazda sold 6,604 vehicles, a 28.28% year-over-year decline, continuing a nine-month streak of falling sales. This decline reflects broader market pressures that have impacted the brand’s market share. In response, Changan Mazda is accelerating its shift toward electric vehicles, with the Mazda EZ-6 offering both BEV and EREV options. The company is also updating its gasoline-powered models, such as the Axela, and adjusting pricing and marketing strategies to remain competitive. While weak market demand contributed to the January sales decline, the company anticipates improvement in February. Changan Mazda focuses on expanding its EV lineup and implementing strategic initiatives to address the downward trend.

Source: Yiche.com