Mazda to lease Demio EV in Japan from October

Mazda Motor Corporation will begin leasing the Demio EV in October 2012. The Demio EV is an independently developed electric vehicle based on the Mazda Demio (known overseas as Mazda2). Using a highly efficient lithium-ion battery and Mazda's unique
electric motor, the Demio EV delivers an exhilarating driving experience, including powerful acceleration, precise handling and a comfortable ride. It also achieves an outstanding driving range of 200 km (JC08 mode test cycle, measured by Mazda). The Demio EV maintains the same cabin space and cargo carrying capacity as the base model Demio. As a zero-emission vehicle that emits no carbon dioxide or other pollutants Mazda intends to lease approximately 100 units in total, mainly to local governments and corporate customers in the Chugoku region of Western Japan (where Mazda's headquarters are located).

Mazda employs a Building Block Strategy, which begins with thorough improvements in base automotive technologies, such as developing more efficient engines and reducing vehicle weight, and builds on these improvements with the step by step introduction of electric devices such as regenerative braking and hybrid systems. In anticipation of a future society which will make ever greater use of a variety of renewable energy sources, Mazda has a long history of research and development into electric powered vehicles. Through the lease program, Mazda intends to gain further knowledge of electric drive technology and the usefulness of such products to the customer.

Posted in: Chugoku,Electric Vehicle,EV,International,Japan,Mazda,Mazda Demio EV,Mazda Motor Corporation,Mazda2,Small Car,Zero-Emission Vehicle