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Mazda Motor Corporation has unveiled plans to open a new research and development (R&D) office in Tokyo’s Azabudai Hills, with the facility expected to be operational by early summer 2025. The move is part of Mazda’s broader strategy to accelerate technological innovation in key areas such as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and digital connectivity.
The new office will be located in the Azabudai Hills complex, a landmark redevelopment project in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, which is set to become a vibrant centre of business, culture, and residential life. By situating its R&D hub in this cutting-edge district, Mazda aims to take advantage of Tokyo’s rich ecosystem of academic institutions, tech companies, and other key industries, fostering collaboration and innovation as it navigates the rapid changes shaping the automotive industry.
Mazda’s new R&D office will focus on advancing technologies that are crucial to the future of mobility. With the global shift towards sustainability and increasing regulatory pressure for greener vehicles, the automaker is intensifying its efforts to develop electric and hybrid cars. In addition, the office will explore new avenues in autonomous driving and digital services, as the automotive sector transitions toward smarter, more connected vehicles.
This new office marks an important expansion of Mazda’s global R&D network. While the company’s headquarters and main R&D centre are based in Hiroshima, the Tokyo location is expected to enhance Mazda’s research capabilities by offering access to a broader range of partners, suppliers, and industry experts.
Mazda is one of several automakers investing heavily in research as the industry faces disruption from technological advancements. With increasing competition in the electric vehicle sector, automakers seek to develop more efficient production processes and cutting-edge innovations. By bolstering its R&D presence in Tokyo, Mazda aims to stay competitive and drive forward its electric vehicle ambitions.
The choice of Azabudai Hills places Mazda in a prime position to engage with other leading companies and institutions in technology and mobility, potentially facilitating strategic partnerships that could accelerate innovation.