Mazda’s entry into the electric sedan market, the 6e (also known as the EZ-6 in China), is now available in the UK, but at a significantly higher price point than its origin market. The discrepancy – where UK buyers pay over twice as much as Chinese consumers – highlights the complexities of global EV pricing and import costs.
Price Disparity: A Stark Comparison
The base-level Takumi trim in the UK starts at £38,995 (approximately $53,200), while the higher-spec Takumi Plus costs £39,995 ($54,600). In contrast, the same model begins at 159,800 yuan (£16,900 / $23,100) in China, with the top trim reaching 181,800 yuan (£19,300 / $26,300). This means UK customers are paying 2.3 times more for an identical vehicle.
This isn’t unusual; EVs manufactured in China often cost less domestically due to localized production and subsidies. However, the gap is striking, particularly as the UK does not impose specific tariffs on Chinese vehicles beyond standard import duties (10% plus 20% VAT).
Technical Specifications and Performance
Both UK trims feature a 78 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, providing a range of 348 miles (560 km) and supporting fast charging from 10-80% in 24 minutes. The single rear-mounted electric motor delivers 254 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of 7.9 seconds.
The Takumi Plus trim enhances interior finishes with tan Nappa leather, titanium accents, suede upholstery, and a panoramic glass roof.
Platform Sharing and Origin
Despite the Mazda branding, the 6e is built on the Changan Deepal SL03 (also known as the L07) platform, sharing core engineering with the Chinese model. This is a joint venture between Mazda and Changan, designed to accelerate EV development and reduce costs.
The price difference underscores how global supply chains, import taxes, and market positioning influence the final cost of electric vehicles.
The UK pricing reflects Mazda’s strategy to position the 6e as a slightly more premium offering compared to competitors like the Tesla Model 3, which starts at £37,990. However, the substantial price gap with China raises questions about affordability and market access for EV buyers in different regions.
