Mazda is considering making vehicles for North America in Mexico from around 2028.

Vehicles made there could qualify for US Inflation Reduction Act incentives.

Mazda plans two new EVs expected to be launched between 2025 and 2027. Initial production would be in Japan with North America to follow. 

Mazda has assembly plants in Salamanca, Mexico plus a joint venture factory with Toyota in Huntsville, Alabama.

Asked if Mazda would build EVs in Alabama, CEO Masahiro Moro said: “At this point, we’re not thinking about it.”

Moro added Mazda would need Toyota approval for any decision affecting the JV.

North American production of EVs would likely begin in 2028-2030.

“Our assumption for North American production of EVs is phase three timing," Moro said.

Under previous CEO Akira Marumoto, Mazda planned to spend US$10.6bn on electrification through 2030 with EVs expected to ramp up from 2028.