Mazda’s EV Silence Is Finally Breaking
Mazda hasn’t exactly led the EV race—especially in the U.S. But that may be changing. A new prototype, spotted near Mazda’s R&D center in California, signals the company is finally building a dedicated electric vehicle for the American market.
And it’s not just a reworked version of a gas model. This SUV is something new.
Spotted: A Mule That Hints at the Future
The test vehicle, or “engineering mule,” looks like a mash-up between the CX-90 and CX-60. It has the body of a CX-90 with a visibly shorter rear end, unusual proportions, and inset wheels. That tells us it’s early in development—these mules often hide new platforms under old shells.
But one thing stands out: the grille is completely sealed. That’s a dead giveaway it’s electric.
Built on Mazda’s New EV Platform
This prototype likely uses Mazda’s Skyactiv EV Scalable Architecture, a platform designed from the ground up for electric cars. It’s modular and can support a wide range of vehicle sizes and body types.
Mazda hasn’t confirmed whether the system runs on 400 or 800 volts, but cost-conscious design suggests it’s likely the former. The company has said it aims for “advanced design, superior convenience, and extended driving ranges” with its new EVs.
Production Timeline and What’s Next
The final version of this electric SUV will roll out of a brand-new factory in Japan sometime around 2027. Mazda wants 25% of its global sales to be electric by 2030, and this U.S.-specific model will play a big role.
Although Mazda didn’t comment directly on this vehicle, the location of the test—in the heart of its U.S. R&D hub—makes it clear: the company is finally building something with American EV buyers in mind.
Although Mazda didn’t comment directly on this vehicle, the location of the test—in the heart of its U.S. R&D hub—makes it clear: the company is finally building something with American EV buyers in mind.
It’s a late start, but if Mazda gets this right, it could be one of the decade’s biggest EV comebacks.
