Mazda’s Exciting New $22,000 EV Coming to Europe

The Mazda 6e, launching in Europe this summer, isn’t just another electric sedan—it’s shaping up to be a template for how affordable, well-designed EVs (and E-REVs) from China could eventually make waves in North America. Originally developed for the Chinese market in partnership with Changan Auto, the Mazda 6e (also known as the EZ-6) is drawing interest not only for its sleek design and tech-forward cabin, but also for its price: the entry model sells in China for around $22,500, and even the top trim stays just under $25,500. That kind of value is absolutely unheard of in the U.S. EV market.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Mazda 6e is its extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) configuration. This version pairs a 1.5-liter gas engine with an electric drivetrain to deliver up to 600 miles of range on a single tank and charge—at least, according to China’s optimistic testing cycle. Realistically, we’d expect closer to 500 miles, which is still exceptional. With 215 horsepower and estimated fuel efficiency around 50–60 mpg, this car would directly address U.S. consumers’ lingering range anxiety, especially in regions where charging infrastructure still lags.

Mazda is also producing a fully electric version of the 6e, using battery technology from CATL, a leading global battery supplier that also works with Volkswagen and others. This version uses CATL’s “cell-to-pack” technology for higher energy density and features a 255-horsepower motor. While exact U.S. specs remain speculative, the involvement of CATL signals serious engineering under the hood.

Inside, the 6e leans into tech—sometimes a little too hard. Mazda highlights voice, gesture, and touch controls as part of its “smart cabin,” though we’re more excited about its 14.6-inch infotainment screen, optional 50-inch head-up display, and a 14-speaker Sony audio system. If Mazda brings this car stateside for under $30,000, we’d gladly trade futuristic hand gestures for buttons that actually work.

A sportier version of the 6e was also shown at the Shanghai Auto Show. With 19-inch wheels, black trim, sport seats, and LED accents, it looks more like a styling package than a true performance upgrade—but it still adds visual appeal to an already sleek silhouette.

Whether or not Mazda plans a U.S. launch, the 6e makes a strong case for what’s coming. It’s not hard to imagine a near-future where Chinese-built EVs, priced aggressively and packed with range, force the U.S. market to evolve faster. And if that future includes a midsize Mazda sedan with real performance, cutting-edge tech, and an E-REV powertrain, it’s one we’re more than ready to welcome.

EVinfo.net’s Take

China dominates the global automotive and EV markets, mainly because of its far lower labor cost, but also for superior technology and quality. Global EV sales hit 7.2 million in 2025 according to Rho Motion, a 28% increase in May compared to the same period in 2024. China sold a record-breaking 1 million EVs in May alone, a 33% jump year-over-year. North America lagged far behind, mainly due to cuts to incentives in Canada.

The United States can catch up and become a leader, if the political and economic will demanded it. A huge problem is vast anti-EV misinformation and disinformation, convincing buyers to stick with gas or hybrid, rather than go for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These false statements about EVs also infect our political system, prompting government decisions that tear down, rather than build up, progress for EVs in America.

EVinfo.net is hopeful that as more time passes, and more leaders and drivers realize the many benefits of EVs, we will be far better off as a country, enjoying the cleaner air and tremendous cost savings that EVs provide. The huge positive impact that EVs provide for fighting global human-caused climate change is an added benefit. We focus on good news here at EVinfo.net, such as Scout Motors announcing its exciting May 2025 production center update. Our transportation future is bright, and fully electric, but we must keep our eyes on that prize and make it happen, by pointing out the many benefits of EVs to our friends, family and neighbors every day.