Mazda to build Mazda2, Mazda3 in Mexico

Mazda confirmed earlier this month that it will end production of the Mazda6 at its joint venture with Ford in Flat Rock, Michigan. Following that, the Japanese automaker announced recently that it has signed formal agreements and begun preparations to establish a Mazda vehicle production facility in Mexico with Sumitomo Corporation. Through the new joint venture, Mazda and Sumitomo will combine their individual strengths in order to take advantage of the rapidly growing Central and South American markets.

“The Mexico production facility will be established as a compact vehicle manufacturing hub mainly for Central and South America, and will include both vehicle and engine assembly plants,” Mazda said. “It will be constructed in Salamanca city, Guanajuato state, 250 kilometers northwest of Mexico City. Mazda and Sumitomo plan to commence operations in the fiscal year 2013 (April 2013 to March 2014) with an annual production capacity of 140,000 units.”

The plant will build the Mazda2 and Mazda3 models.

– By: Omar Rana