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Mazda's CEO-designate alters strategic planning amid postponed electric vehicle requirement and ongoing trade disputes in Canada.

Mazda temporarily halted the production of CX-50 vehicles for Canada in April due to the 25% tariff on American-made automobiles. The federal EV sales mandate was put on hold for 2026, prompting Mazda Canada to shift towards cars built in Japan and Mexico. Amy Fleming, the incoming CEO of Mazda...

Mazda's CEO-Designate Adjusts Strategy: EV Mandate Delayed and Trade Issues Persist in Canada
Mazda's CEO-Designate Adjusts Strategy: EV Mandate Delayed and Trade Issues Persist in Canada

Mazda's CEO-designate alters strategic planning amid postponed electric vehicle requirement and ongoing trade disputes in Canada.

Mazda's electrified journey in Canada has been marked by both successes and challenges. In June 2025, the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in Canada dropped by 35% compared to the same period a year earlier, reflecting a broader trend of declining EV sales in the country.

However, Mazda has managed to buck this trend somewhat. In July 2025, the company experienced a 19.5% year-over-year increase in sales, a testament to the appeal of its electrified lineup. Mazda's offering in Canada currently includes plug-in hybrid versions of the CX-70 and CX-90.

The CX-50 crossover, which accounted for 15% of Mazda's sales in 2024, also saw growth in July 2025, with sales increasing by 18.2% compared to the same month in 2024. The Mazda3 sales surged 126.7% during the same period.

Despite these successes, Mazda has faced challenges. The MX-30 EV, a battery-electric model offered in Canada, was discontinued in 2024 due to poor sales, a subpar range of 161 km, and a high price point. The EZ-6 electric sedan, which was planned for introduction in China and Europe, will not be sold in Canada due to the country's 100% tariff on Chinese-made vehicles.

Mazda's goal remains to have a fully electrified lineup by 2030, offering a variety of hybrid and electric vehicle options for consumers. Amy Fleming, Mazda Canada's incoming CEO, stated that the company wants to offer consumers a choice based on lifestyle, not government mandate, in their electrification strategy.

To achieve this goal, Mazda Canada is adjusting its strategy by focusing on vehicles built in Japan and Mexico. The production of Canada-bound Mazda CX-50 units was halted due to a 25% Canadian tariff on American-made vehicles.

Despite these challenges, Mazda Canada is working on a "multi-solution plan" that includes a mix of mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, conventional hybrids, and battery-electric vehicles. The Hyundai Kona Electric, with its longer range and lower price point compared to the discontinued MX-30 EV, may be a more attractive option for consumers in the Canadian market.

The federal EV sales mandate in Canada has been paused for 2026, which could further impact the sales of electric vehicles in the country. However, Mazda Canada remains committed to its electrification strategy, aiming to provide consumers with a diverse range of electrified vehicles in the coming years.

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