Mazda Partners CATL to Develop Next-Gen EV

Mazda Motor Corporation is taking a big step forward in its electric vehicle (EV) plans through a new partnership with Chinese battery giant CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd.).

The deal, made through Changan Mazda - Mazda’s joint venture in China - focuses on building next-generation electric vehicles using CATL’s advanced CIIC (Cell to Chassis) platform.

The CIIC platform, unveiled in Dec last year, allows automakers to build vehicles faster and more efficiently. It separates the car’s upper body from the chassis, making it easier to swap out parts and update systems. This flexible design helps reduce development time and adjust quickly to market changes.

By combining CATL’s battery and chassis technology with Changan Mazda’s manufacturing experience, both companies hope to create better, safer, and more reliable electric vehicles for both the international and Chinese domestic market.

Executives from both sides attended the partnership signing event. The partnership is part of Mazda’s broader effort to grow its EV presence in China.

The company recently showcased its new EZ-60 electric SUV at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, which will eventually be offered in the global market as the CX-6e.

Mazda has pledged to invest RMB10 billion (RM6.55 billion) to double production and reach 300,000 vehicle sales in China by 2027 of which 90% of it would be electric or hybrid models.

Mazda also plans to release two more electric models in China by 2027, with its Nanjing facility supporting research, development, manufacturing, and exports.

This partnership further highlights a growing trend in the automotive landscape - where carmakers and battery companies teaming up to meet rising global demand for electric vehicles.

Source: CarNewsChina