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With Focus on Combustion Engines, Automaker Challenges the Electric Trend and Projects Continued Success in 2025. Is the End of Electric Cars Near?
While many automakers are accelerating towards total electrification, Mazda has chosen an alternative path and is reaping the rewards of its strategy. The Japanese automaker ended 2024 with a record sales in the United States, exclusively betting on combustion vehicles and forecasting even greater growth for 2025, according to the news site Notícias Automotivas.
Historic Growth: Automaker Mazda Records Impressive Numbers in 2024
With over 420,000 units sold, Mazda recorded a 16% increase compared to the previous year, reaching its highest sales volume in the United States since 1986. The popularity of compact crossovers and midsize SUVs, such as the CX-5, CX-30, and CX-50, drove this performance.
Tom Donnelly, president of Mazda’s North American operations, highlighted the stability of the automotive market in terms of volume and the brand’s ability to expand its reach even in a competitive landscape.
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“We are expanding our business in a market that has remained stable in volume”, Donnelly stated.
Mazda’s Gradual Strategy in the Electrification Market
Despite success with combustion engines, Mazda does not ignore the electrification trend. The brand recently introduced hybrid models such as the CX-50, CX-70, and CX-90, utilizing technology developed in partnership with Toyota. However, acceptance of these models is still divisive.
Donnelly revealed that Mazda plans to create its own hybrid system and launch a 100% electric vehicle in the U.S. only by 2027. This cautious approach reflects the company’s view of the BEV market (battery electric vehicles), which currently represents about 10% of the automotive market.
“BEV penetration is at 10% right now and, considering recent events, it shouldn’t grow much beyond that”, Donnelly explained, emphasizing that Mazda is in no rush to fully embrace electrification.
Models Driving Mazda in the U.S.
The CX-5 remains Mazda’s main success, representing one of the pillars of sales in the U.S. Manufactured in Japan, the model is expected to receive a major update in the next 12 to 24 months.
Other highlights include the CX-30, produced in Mexico, and the CX-50, assembled in Alabama at a plant shared with Toyota. These models solidify Mazda’s position in the North American market, balancing innovation and accessibility.
