Mazda turns out to be on the rise. For the first time in its 54-year history, the automaker is on track to surpass 400,000 U. S. sales in a calendar year. In a strong market, Mazda cars are rolling out of showrooms across the country, and Mazda’s president and CEO of North American operations, Tom Donnelly, has some ideas why.
“For one, we focused on enhancing our connection with our customers through our new brand campaign,” Donnelly says. “Second, we’ve diversified our product mix. We want to be a brand that meets customers’ needs at every point of their lives. This means that we have the right vehicle for every stage. Finally, we’ve worked with our dealer partners through our Retail Evolution program to create a transparent and upscale experience for our customers at every point of vehicle ownership.”
Some brands are moving directly from all-gasoline to all-electric, but Mazda is embracing its hybrid powertrain. Donnelly says the logo listens to its consumers and cares about meeting them where they are.
“Over the next few years, we will continue to move forward with our electrification plan,” says Donnelly. “This will replace the way we push our vehicles, but not the driving quality and commitment we are known for. I anticipate that we will continue to increase our annual sales and our internal objectives reflect this. While I can’t wait for the future, I know we have the right products and intermediary partners to continue our success.
Mazda’s electrification strategy is threefold. Phase One will be completed at the end of this year, including the introduction of plug-in hybrids and hybrids, including the new CX-50 Hybrid, which has been an important contributor to Mazda’s record-breaking sales numbers in 2024.
The second phase will begin next year and extend into 2027, expanding the automaker’s hybrid features and introducing its first battery electric vehicle (BEV). Finally, Phase 3 is expected to run between 2027 and 2030, adding the expansion of BEVs across the Mazda range.
“It’s clear that what other people think would happen in terms of BEV adoption is not slowing down at the expected rate,” Donnelly observes. “So, as consumers slowly adopt electric cars, hybrid cars have gained popularity as a sort of stopgap measure. Until progress is made to address visitor considerations about range, charging infrastructure and cost, we will continue to see slow adoption of BEVs. If those obstacles are overcome, BEV adoption will increase. Our progressive strategy towards electrification aims to have BEVs in several segments by 2030.
Mazda’s CEO described the logo as an “intentional follower” when it comes to electrification. How was this worth it for Mazda? Donnelly says his team constantly evaluates the market, listens to consumers and uses that feedback to make decisions. Through this strategy, Mazda discovered that many consumers were looking for greater fuel economy but were not in a position to transfer to a BEV for a variety of options. for various reasons, from charging to lack of charging infrastructure.
“As we move towards an electrified long term to 2030, we have a flexible technique that allows us to adapt and deliver the right technologies at the right time,” continues Donnelly. “Our recent launch of the CX-50 Hybrid, as well as the arrival of the CX-90 PHEV and CX-70 PHEV are just a few examples of how this technique has given us the right products to capitalize on the growing call for applications. car hybrids.
Equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine assisted by three electric motors, the CX-50 Hybrid looks and feels consistent with the brand’s high-quality ethos. Since the CX-50 Hybrid starts at less than $40,000, that means great value for the money, since Mazda doesn’t skimp on materials or features.
I liked several elements of this hybrid crossover, adding the generous door compartments that can accommodate a Yeti-sized bottle, the sleek frame shape, comfortable seats, and forged handling. Inside the cabin, the CX-50 feels far more sumptuous than its value suggests. Mazda is on the edge of the luxury category, which possibly seems to put it at a disadvantage compared to some of its rivals, however, Donnelly says the logo is on it.
“Why the push to compete against luxury brands when Mazda has long been known for its value?” he posits. “We’re keeping what our customers know and love about Mazda – reliability, leading safety features, and an exceptional driving experience – while also capitalizing on evolving consumer preferences.”
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