
First Bolt Accelerator Program Awards hosted in South Africa
The launch of the inaugural Bolt Accelerator Program (BAP) Awards in South Africa took place at the Garden Venue Hotel, West of Johannesburg this morning.
- Industry News
- 23 May 2025
Mazda made its voice heard at the Beijing International Motor Show in China where it showcased two new models, ready for the new energy future awaiting transport.
The Mazda EZ-6 is the first in a series of new energy vehicles that will be launched in China by the end of 2024. In addition, the concept model Mazda Arata, unveiled at the same time, is scheduled to be mass-produced as the second new electrified vehicle by the end of 2025 and introduced in the Chinese market. In China, where electrification is rapidly advancing, Mazda will expand its line-up of electrified products so that more customers can choose them.
The Mazda EZ-6 is a dedicated electrified model that combines Mazda’s design language, KODO-Soul of Motion, and its signature driving performance, which focuses on the Jinba-ittai (car and driver as one) driving feel, with advanced electric vehicle technology and smart technology supplied by Changan Automobile.
Two versions of the Mazda EZ-6 will be available, a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and a plug-in hybrid electrified vehicle (PHEV). Customers in China will be able to select a powertrain that matches their personal lifestyles and preferences.
The Mazda Arata is a design concept model for which Mazda took on a challenge to create a new value based on the Mazda philosophy of “Uplifting the Human Spirit”. As a crossover SUV, with a modern design that creates a sleek, elegant impression, it is designed to appeal to the advanced, sophisticated taste of Chinese consumers, the manufacturer says.
The new Volvo XC70 mid-size SUV is Volvo Cars’ first extended-range plug-in hybrid. It provides a pure electric range of up to 200 kilometres, making it Volvo Cars’ longest-range plug-in hybrid to date.
A shift towards an electric vehicle landscape in South Africa will get another boost with the soon-to-be released Geely Riddara double cab 4x4 and 4x2 bakkies locally by Enviro Automotive.
The latest Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition clearly showed the worldwide shift towards new-energy drivetrains like battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).