Mazda Motor Corporation has said it will build its next midsize automobile entirely in Japan, rather than the United States.
Its current midsize model Mazda6 (known as Atenza in Japan) is produced in three locations, the Hofu Plant in Japan, AutoAlliance International (AAI) in Michigan, USA, and at FAW Car Co., Ltd. in Changchun, Jilin province, China.
The company said it would continue to make the Mazda6 in the US “until the end of its current cycle plan” but that its successor would be made in Hofu.
“Our intention is to transfer production of our next CD-car for North America from AAI and consolidate it at Hofu in order to improve production and investment efficiencies and optimize our business," said Takashi Yamanouchi, Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Corporation.
"The decision was made after carefully assessing all risks and opportunities, including global needs, changing demand in North America, and exchange rate exposure. Going forward, Mazda will strive to maintain and grow our business in America.”
AAI was established as Mazda Motor Manufacturing (USA) Corporation in 1985. It became a joint venture between Mazda and Ford in 1992, when the name was changed to AutoAlliance International, Inc.Mazda said it is conducting studies with Ford on the future of AAI and will announce details at the appropriate time.
"We are committed to working with Ford, our joint venture partner in AAI, to identify potential future opportunities for the plant,” said Yamanouchi. “Mazda and Ford have enjoyed a close relationship for over 30 years. We have collaborated on projects where there are mutual benefits, and both companies remain committed to continuing this strategic partnership."
