Mazda has begun discussions with Changan about additional electric vehicles that could be developed through their long-running partnership in China. The conversations follow the introduction of the Mazda 6e/EZ-6 and CX-6e/EZ-60, which use Changan vehicle foundations and are sold in selected markets.

Mazda’s electric-vehicle lineup was previously limited to the MX-30, a model that had a short market life. To bring its latest EVs to market more quickly and reduce development costs, Mazda based the 6e on the Deepal L07 and developed the CX-6e around the Deepal S07.

Further Changan-based models being considered

The two existing models are not simply rebadged Changan products. Mazda builds them at a separate factory, while engineering teams from Japan and Europe contributed extensively to their development.

Even so, the relationship gives Mazda access to vehicle architectures that could support additional EVs. Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi said the company has started discussing other opportunities with Changan, although he did not identify specific future models.

“Our 20-year partnership with Changan Automotive in Nanjing is a strong partnership. We have started talking about what other opportunities could be there,” Bhindi told Go Auto.

Bhindi also linked the timing of the 6e and CX-6e launches with increased interest in electric vehicles. He said fuel prices rose sharply amid the conflict in the Middle East, contributing to greater demand as consumers increasingly considered EVs a viable part of their lifestyles.

A smaller electric SUV is one possibility

One potential direction could be an electric SUV positioned below the CX-6e. The source identifies the Deepal S05 as one possible basis for such a vehicle. Changan has sold the S05 in China for the past two years, and the model uses the same EPA1 platform as the larger Deepal S07.

That shared platform could allow Mazda to adapt the S05 for a smaller and potentially more affordable EV, but the company has not confirmed that it will pursue this model or any other specific Changan-based product.

For now, Mazda’s discussions with Changan represent a possible route to expanding its electric lineup without developing every model independently. The 6e and CX-6e demonstrate how the partnership can combine Changan platforms with Mazda-led design and engineering work, while the form and timing of any additional EVs remain undecided.