Mazda has launched a UK roadshow to prepare its 114-strong dealer network for the new Mazda6e electric model ahead of it going on sale in the summer.
Sales and aftersales teams are being given early access to the new electric vehicle through a programme of showroom visits featuring European specification left-hand drive models.
The fleet of cars, driven by Mazda’s regional business managers, is touring retailers across Scotland, England and Wales.
A second phase of the roadshow will expand the number of vehicles available and provide sales staff with more time behind the wheel.
Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda Motors UK, said: “The Mazda6e has been eagerly anticipated by our retail partners, which is why we felt it was important for their teams to see, touch and drive it at the earliest possible opportunity.”
PCH expected to play a big role in Mazda6e sales
Alongside product familiarisation, the roadshow is being used to brief retailers on the role Personal Contract Hire (PCH) is expected to play in Mazda6e sales.
Thomson added: “The Mazda6e will have a competitive position in the expanding BEV D segment, so we will be delivering a PCH proposition which we believe will appeal strongly to both retail and local fleet customers, enabling dealers to maximise on both customer retention rates and conquest sales.”
Milcars Mazda in Watford was among the first retailers to host the roadshow. The family-run business has represented the brand since 1995.
Chris Ward, owner of Milcars Mazda, said: “The sales and aftersales teams really appreciated the opportunity to preview the Mazda6e this far ahead of launch.
“As it’s such an important car for us, we allocated slots over the course of the day to enable everyone to spend as much time as possible experiencing this important new model.
“The feedback has been incredibly positive.
“We’ve all been impressed by its styling, easy to use tech and driving experience, we genuinely can’t wait to start selling it.
“Some of the key talking points here have been the value for money it offers as an EV at under £40,000, the ability to charge from 30-80% in just 15 minutes and its battery range of up to 348 miles. We believe these will resonate with existing customers and attract conquests.
“Importantly, we can now talk to our customers about the Mazda6e and share some of our personal experiences and that will create a buzz in the lead up to it going on sale.”
In parallel with the retailer programme, Mazda is hosting a separate roadshow for corporate customers, giving fleet managers the opportunity to view and drive the Mazda6e ahead of its UK launch.