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Mazda to Debut Demio EV in Japan

Mazda Motor Corp. says it will introduce an electric version of its Demio (Mazda2 in other markets) subcompact sedan in October.
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Mazda Motor Corp. says it will introduce an electric version of its Demio (Mazda2 in other markets) subcompact sedan in October.

The company plans to lease only 100 vehicles, all to businesses and government agencies near Mazda headquarters in Japan's Chugoku region. The Demio EV will have a list price in Japan of $44,900.

The five-passenger car is powered by an unusual 346-volt, 20-kWh lithium-ion battery. Developed by Panasonic Corp., it consists of an aluminum case containing cells the size of a AA battery. The system feeds a Mazda-developed 75-kW electric motor that generates 111 lb-ft of torque.

Mazda says the 2,600-lb car can travel about 60 miles on a charge or twice that distance when the air conditioning system is switched off. The battery can be recharged in eight hours from household current or 40 minutes with a fast-charge system, according to the company.

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