Get a Detailed Look at Mazda’s Electric Driving Dynamics

What is the secret behind Mazda’s electric vehicle (EV) technology? As an automaker with more than 100 years’ experience, Mazda understands that the secret to success comes in many forms.

Therefore, when Mazda program manager Tomiko Takeuchi began the development of Mazda’s first all-electric vehicle in 2015, she knew that several elements needed to come together to create the type of electric vehicle that could live up to the standards of the Mazda name.

In 2022, Takeuchi and her team delivered with the debut of the Mazda MX-30 EV. Mazda’s first all-electric crossover not only embraces Mazda’s traditional recipe for success, but it also offers drivers several updated driving dynamics and technology features that capture the spirit and define the future of the Mazda fleet.

Mazda’s Electric Version of Jinba Ittai

One of the hallmarks of the Mazda driving experience is what the company calls Jinba Ittai, or the “oneness” between rider and horse. From well-appointed interiors to intuitive safety and responsive driving systems, Mazda has developed a number of signature elements for its traditional gas-powered vehicles.

Translating this driving experience to Mazda’s electric vehicles involved ensuring that the EV driver has the same level of control and precision on the road as their gasoline-powered counterparts. Takeuchi and her team went even further and produced the electric G-Vectoring Control Plus (e-GVC Plus) system.

e-GVC Plus builds on the GVC Plus handling system in Mazda’s gas-powered vehicles, a system known for its precision and response time. More specifically, e-GVC Plus offers Mazda EV drivers more precise control over their vehicles through electric motor torque adjustments that regulate vehicle load and provide responsive and consistent handling as a result.

In real terms, this means that the electric drivetrain responds to driver input, including steering and acceleration, in as little as 20 to 50 milliseconds. In comparison, the standard GVC-Plus system in gas-powered combustion engine models responds in 50 to 100 milliseconds.

Additional Mazda EV Technology for the MX-30 EV

In addition to the control and handling offered to drivers by e-GVC Plus, Mazda added additional features to its electric technology that are specifically designed to enhance the driving experience and tap into Jinba Ittai.

First, the Mazda MX-30 EV features a unique tire load distribution with 40% of the weight concentrated in the front of the vehicle and 60% in the back. They combined this balance with a lower (by 2.1 inches) center of gravity compared to other vehicles in the line and tighter torque. The result is smoother and more precise handling that couples well with the responsiveness of the e-GVC Plus system.

In addition, the Mazda MX-30 EV includes another unique feature: EV Sound. For many drivers, the addition of auditory feedback when pressing the accelerator — electric engines don’t naturally produce sound, provides a sense of increased speed. This responsiveness correlates with a closer relationship between the driver and vehicle, enhancing the effects of e-GVC Plus and Jinba Ittai.

The Future of Mazda’s Electric Vehicles

As an automobile manufacturer, Mazda’s long-term vision for the future — Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030 — includes a continued investment and focus on the power and joy of driving electric vehicles. Indeed, while the MX-30 is currently only available in California, Mazda plans to introduce a total of 15 electric vehicles between 2022 and 2025.

In addition, by 2030, Mazda vows to include electric options for all its products, which includes ensuring that 25% of its models are pure electric. When it comes to Mazda EV technology, the best is truly yet to come.

Learn more about the Jinba Ittai driving experience and Mazda’s commitment to electric vehicles and sustainability in addition to the entire Mazda lineup when you visit DePaula Mazda.