Mazda is expanding its Fleet Dealer Specialist network in preparation for this summer’s debut of the Mazda6e, which marks the first in a series of all-electric cars.

The brand has also launched a Mazda Business Contract Hire (BCH) finance programme aimed at significantly increasing the number of cars sold to local fleets and businesses.

Four retailers have joined the Fleet Dealer Specialist network bringing the total to seven sites, with Mazda in conversations with other partners considering fleet specialist accreditation.

The latest signings are Arnold Clark Stirling Mazda, Vertu Mazda Redditch, Eden Mazda Taunton and Yeomans Mazda Bexhill. They join Holdcroft Mazda Stoke, Johnson Mazda Tamworth and RRG Mazda Stockport.

Jeremy Thomson, Mazda Motors UK managing director, said: “We’ve taken a strategic decision to grow our Fleet Dealer Specialist network as we anticipate strong local business demand as we rollout our all-new battery electric vehicles, starting with the Mazda6e.

“We’re delighted to welcome Arnold Clark, Vertu, Eden and Yeomans to our Fleet Dealer Specialist network and are working with them to ensure they benefit from incremental increases in local business sales and aftersales.”

Mazda Contract Hire products are expected to play a key role in driving business sales with monthly rentals for the Mazda6e starting from £332 +VAT. Mazda will also more actively promote BCH across its entire vehicle range, broadening awareness among local business customers across the country.

Thomson added: “With a growing number of new EVs funded through BCH, we identified a need to deliver a more compelling offering for business customers. This move will enable our dealer partners to better serve the needs of their local fleet customers, especially those transitioning to electric.”

Showcased at last month’s Great British Fleet Event, the Mazda6e is the all-electric successor to the Mazda6.

The electric family-car newcomer features a modern flowing exterior, sleek cabin design and Mazda’s famed focus on the experience from behind the wheel.

Merging premium saloon proportions combined with hatchback functionality, it’s available with a single 78kWh battery specification that delivers a combined WLTP range of 348 miles, while 10-80% charging on a 195kW DC charger takes 24 minutes. With a 258hp and 290Nm of torque on tap from its rear-wheel-drive setup, the Mazda6e will reach 62mph in 7.9 seconds.

Prices start at £38,995 for the Takumi and £39,995 for Takumi Plus.

Later this year, the next chapter in Mazda’s BEV story will begin in the UK with the debut of the all-new CX-6e SUV.