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  • The new Mazda EZ-60 shares its platform with the Deepal S07 from Changan.
  • Mazda has so far only announced specifications for the range-extender version.
  • It uses a range-extender powertrain with a 1.5-liter engine and 255 hp electric motor.

Many legacy carmakers have struggled to keep pace with Chinese startups and their innovative new EVs. However, earlier this week, Mazda revealed an electric SUV known as the EZ-60, and it’s already garnered quite a lot of attention in the country. It is also proving to be a hit with customers, with more than 10,000 pre-orders placed within just 48 hours of its debut.

The EZ-60 is unlike any Mazda sold elsewhere. Technically, it is not even a full-blooded Mazda. Thanks to a partnership with Changan, the SUV rides on the same platform as the Deepal S07, one of the latest electric models to roll out of China. It is a clear example of Mazda adapting to a fast-changing market, even if it means leaning on local expertise to do it.

Read: Mazda’s New Electric SUV Packs Six Screens And A Range-Extender Powertrain

As reported by CarNewsChina, Mazda secured 10,060 pre-orders for the EZ-60 in the two days since its unveiling. This comes despite the fact that the SUV has so far only been showcased in range-extender form and details about the battery-electric version have yet to be announced.

However, one shouldn’t mistake pre-orders for actual sales. For starters, shoppers are in no way obligated to follow through with purchasing the car. Additionally, pre-orders can be placed for just 10 yuan, the equivalent of just $1.40. Not all people who did will go through and buy it, but that’s the norm in the industry anyway – only the percentage varies in each case.

Mazda may be borrowing a Chinese platform, but the EZ-60 looks every bit like a Mazda should. That is important because it will not be limited to China. In other markets, including Europe and possibly Australia, it will be sold as the CX-6e. Unfortunately, if you are in the United States, you are out of luck, because there are no plans to bring it here.

The range-extender version of the EZ-60 presented at the Shanghai Auto Show has a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that acts as a generator for the 31.7 kWh battery, which drives a 255 hp electric motor at the rear axle. As mentioned, Mazda has yet to reveal specifications of the all-electric version, and it’ll be interesting to see how buyers react to that one.