Mazda rules out BEVs on CX-90 platform

MAZDA will not build fully electric models on the new-generation, rear-biased “Large Architecture” platform used for the CX-60 and CX-90 SUVs that launch in Australia this year, instead limiting the underpinnings to petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid models.

A new scalable architecture dedicated to full-electric models is in the works but Mazda models underpinned by this platform will not arrive until 2025.

Plug-in hybrid versions of the CX-60 and CX-90 will be sold alongside six-cylinder mild hybrid petrol and diesel versions, but GoAuto understands the company will not pursue offering a full-EV model on the new Large Architecture.

Instead, buyers wanting an all-new mid-size or large electric SUV from Mazda will have to wait years longer.

The only battery electric vehicle (BEV) currently sold by Mazda is the MX-30 SUV, which is one of the least-popular models in the brand’s range and offers limited battery range. It has also drawn criticism for its unconventional door layout and impractical design.

Many of those concerns are expected to be addressed with the new scalable BEV platform that Mazda is working on, but – somewhat surprisingly – the brand has confirmed it could, in theory, build an EV off the rear-drive platform if it so chose.

Mitsuru Wakiie, program manager for the CX-90 large SUV, said: “Technically, yes it’s possible, but it’s not the ideal platform for EVs.”

He reiterated that the brand is working on a new tooling specifically for the BEV range it will underpin.

“Mazda made an announcement that we are going to make an exclusive platform of electric vehicles,” he said.

There are no details as yet as to what the new-gen underpinnings could bring for customers, but Mazda Australia marketing director Alastiar Doak, said there are new possibilities for design and body types as a result of electrification.

“EV body design – where does that go? It frees up so much internal space,” he said of the inherent packaging possibilities that stem from electric car underpinnings, which do not need a bulky engine up front and other heavy hardware.

“Obviously aerodynamics are really important for EVs as well, to get the range, so how does that change? You’ve got that packaging freedom with the ‘skateboard’ style architecture,” he said.

Mazda has confirmed the petrol and diesel models on the new platform all feature 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, and are capable of a level of electric-only driving at low speeds.

The plug-in hybrid versions of the CX-60 and CX-90 will be sold with an adapted 2.5-litre SkyActiv four-cylinder petrol engine teamed to an electric motor with total outputs of 241kW and 500Nm.

Both run a sizeable 17.8kWh battery pack, with an expected electric-only driving range of 76 kilometres.