Mazda Motor Corporation is collaborating with Changan Automobile Group to develop a new electric vehicle. The firms aim to launch the model in China by 2019. Mazda's move coincides with those of its Japanese peers, Honda Motor, Toyota Motor and Nissan Motor, which are set to successively release electric sports utility vehicles popular among Chinese consumers.

To develop the new car, which is likely to be a small SUV, Mazda will procure motors, batteries and other key parts mainly from Changan. Mazda will be responsible for auto bodies, among other things, with the vehicles being produced at Changan Mazda.