It’s no secret Mazda is developing an all-electric
vehicle that is scheduled to launch in late 2020. The automaker is currently
testing its first-ever EV underneath a Mazda CX-30 body shell but when the
production model arrives next year it will be a standalone vehicle with its own
design and likely a dedicated platform as well. Codenamed the Mazda e-TPV
(Electric Technology Prove-Out Vehicle), the EV test bed has been driven
recently by Chasing Cars’ Iain Curry. The video review provides a very
interesting insight into Mazda’s first electric vehicle.
We learn that the electric motor fitted to this
prototype delivers 141 hp and 265 Nm of torque.
Electricity is stored in a 35.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. These figures are
somewhat similar to the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq Electric and offer a clue
regarding the market positioning of the Mazda EV.
For now, it is uncertain whether it will be a
hatchback or a crossover (although the latter is more likely) but one thing is
certain: it will be a subcompact vehicle. And now let’s get to the driving
impressions. First of all, the acceleration isn’t incredible although the
vehicle builds speed nicely.
The e-TPV feels similar to a Mazda3 in corners,
which is good to hear, and the steering is precise and progressive. The smooth
ride quality is also worth noting. Something else worth mentioning is the fact
that engineers haven’t given the EV heavy regenerative braking in order to keep
the driving experience close to an ICE-powered car. Mazda has even decided to
pump fake four-cylinder engine soundtrack through the speakers to make the
transition to EVs smoother for its customers.
We’ll learn more about Mazda’s first EV in late
October when the automaker will reveal more details about it, including the
design of the interior, at the Tokyo Motor Show.
