Mazda is joining the league of electric vehicle makers with the unveiling of the Mazda MX-30. The electric SUV will offer 100 miles of range on a single charge of its battery.
The MX-30 comes in two trim levels, with the higher one adding extras like a 360-degree camera system and a luxury audio system. You can also tack on premium paint colors.
Mazda based the new car on its new powertrain called the e-Skactiv EV. The platform includes a front-axle mounted electric motor that produces 143 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque.
The car is powered by a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, an aspect where Mazda appears to have skimped. It charges to 80 percent under 30 minutes with a rapid public charger, and two hours on a 240 volts Level 2 charger.
The company defends its choice of battery capacity by marketing the MX-30 as a city car for ordinary daily driving. However, Mazda is attempting to compensate for the low range by offering a loaned ICE car for when owners want to embark on longer trips, for up to 10 days per year in the first three years of ownership.
With the battery placed under the floorboard, the MX-30 has a low center of gravity, which will help maintain stability. A cooling system allows the battery to work optimally.
Mazda is throwing features like the new G-Vectoring Control Plus (e-GVC Plus) as standard for the car to achieve more natural and consistent handling. To make up for the lack of noise, the MX-30 produces artificial sounds in sync with the motor. There is also a $500 charging credit to spend at ChargePoint stations or installing a home charger.
The MX-30 is eligible for the federal incentive in the US, a fact Mazda is reminding potential buyers, lopping off up to $7,500 from the sticker price. As for the pricing, the basic trim starts at $34,470. It will go on sale in October, starting in California. Reservations are open now with a deposit.
For those that may not be comfortable with only 100 miles range, Mazda promises a plug-in hybrid version that packs a rotary gas engine.