Mazda starts production of Mazda RX-8

Mazda Motor Corporation today commenced production of its all-new four-door, four-seater Mazda RX-8 sports car at its Ujina No.1 Plant in Hiroshima. The first vehicles off the line today will be sold in Japan, with production of models bound for North America and Europe to commence in mid-March and mid-April respectively. The RX-8 is scheduled to hit showrooms in Japan this April.

The RX-8 provides a superb combination of sports car styling, dynamic performance and the functionality to comfortably seat four adults, creating a completely new kind of driving excitement.

A ceremony was held at the plant from 8:00am this morning to mark the start of production of the all-new RX-8. Thirteen company executives, including Executive Vice President Hisakazu Imaki, along with Mazda Workers' Union representatives and some 450 employees attended the event.

Addressing those present, Executive Vice President Imaki said, "I am delighted to join everyone here today in celebrating the start of production of the RX-8. The RX-8 is a sports car which fully expresses the Mazda brand, and will be launched as Mazda's flagship in the major markets of Japan, US and Europe. By achieving even higher quality production at this Ujina No.1 Plant, we will continue to deliver products which exceed customer expectations, ensuring that we achieve our goal of product-led growth set in the Millennium Plan."

The RX-8 was developed to deliver distinctive styling and unparalleled driving excitement. At the same, the car also delivers high practicality, such as seating room for four adults, good fuel economy, and utility. The RX-8 is designed to meet the needs of active, sports-minded customers who enjoy spending time with friends and family. Furthermore, despite the absence of center pillars, the car provides a high level of safety, and was designed with environmental concerns in mind. In Japan, the RX-8 will be offered in three versions--the high power 6MT 'Type S,' standard power 4EC-AT 'Type E' and 5MT. Manufacturer's suggested retail prices are expected to range from 2.4 million to 2.75 million yen. Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan have been accepting presale orders for the RX-8 since January 7 this year.

Mazda's Ujina No.1 Plant began operations in November 1966 and has an annual production capacity of 238,000 units based on regular operation. In addition to the RX-8, the Demio, Roadster, MPV and Familia sedan are currently built at the plant.

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