In a stunning move, Mazda’s CEO has unveiled the Mazda EZ60, a $23,000 electric truck that’s sending shockwaves through the auto industry and reportedly leaving Elon Musk reeling. Priced at a fraction of Tesla’s Cybertruck, which starts at $72,490, the EZ60 promises superior range, innovative features, and a design that could dethrone Tesla’s polarizing pickup. The announcement, amplified by viral posts on X, has sparked heated debates, with fans claiming Mazda’s truck is set to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) market.
The Mazda EZ60, developed in collaboration with China’s Changan, boasts a staggering 400-mile range for its battery-electric version (BEV) and up to 600 miles for the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model. In contrast, the Cybertruck’s top range is 325 miles, with real-world tests showing as low as 250 miles. The EZ60’s interior features massive dual screens, rivaling Tesla’s minimalist dashboard, and a rugged yet sleek design that appeals to traditional truck buyers—unlike the Cybertruck’s sci-fi aesthetic, which has alienated some. X users raved, with one posting, “Mazda’s $23K EZ60 humiliates Tesla’s overpriced Cybertruck!”
Mazda’s pricing strategy is a masterstroke. At $23,000, the EZ60 undercuts not only the Cybertruck but also competitors like the Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning. This affordability, combined with a robust 11,000-pound towing capacity and off-road prowess, positions the EZ60 as a practical choice for work and adventure. Meanwhile, the Cybertruck has faced criticism for poor hauling performance and eight recalls in 13 months, including issues with panels detaching mid-drive. Forbes reported Tesla’s sales at just 46,096 units, far below Musk’s 250,000 annual target, with $200 million in unsold inventory.
Musk’s reaction, though unconfirmed, is rumored to be one of fury. Posts on X claim he’s “losing it” over Mazda’s bold move, especially as Tesla slashes Cybertruck prices by up to $10,000 to clear stock. The EZ60’s production in China could give Mazda a cost advantage, though it raises questions about U.S. tariffs and supply chain reliability. Mazda aims to produce 50,000 units by 2026, leveraging Changan’s expertise to scale rapidly. In contrast, Tesla’s Austin Gigafactory struggles with Cybertruck production bottlenecks.
Skeptics note that Mazda’s claims await real-world testing, and the EZ60’s Chinese manufacturing may deter some buyers. Yet, if Mazda delivers, the EZ60 could capture significant market share, especially among budget-conscious consumers. Morgan Stanley analysts predict a $50 billion EV truck market by 2030, and Mazda’s entry threatens Tesla’s dominance. As Musk grapples with a flopping flagship, Mazda’s $23,000 truck could indeed “obliterate” the Cybertruck, proving that affordability and practicality trump futuristic hype. The EV truck war has begun, and Mazda just fired a devastating shot.
