Mr. Graziano greeted the attendees, saying, "The all-new Mazda 2 is the first of Mazda's new generation products to evolve to the next stage. While the current model was intended for the domestic market, the new model has been developed into a globally competitive car. I wish to congratulate you all on your hard work, which has now successfully brought us to the start of full mass production. I am convinced that the all-new Mazda 2 will capture the hearts of our customers and demonstrate to drivers the world over that, 'Mazda vehicles look inviting to drive, are fun to drive, and make you want to drive them again.' The new Mazda 2 offers an exhilarating driving experience that is the soul of Zoom-Zoom and we will continue to build cars with the strong understanding that safety and environmental friendliness are a vital part of making cars fun-to-drive."

By focusing on weight reduction during its development, the all-new Mazda 2 is roughly 100 kilogrammes lighter than its predecessor, placing it among the most fuel efficient vehicles in its class. It also has substantially improved safety performance. Based on Mazda's driving dynamics, the all-new Mazda 2 meets today's regulatory requirements and customer needs for styling, manoeuverability and economy. The all-new Mazda 2 European model was greeted with acclaim at its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2007 and again at its Asian debut during the Shanghai Motor Show in April.

Along with continuing production of the all-new Mazda 2 at the U1 plant, additional Mazda 2 production will begin at the Ujina Plant No.2 (U2) in June 2007. Sales will commence in Japan, followed by Europe and Australia and other markets. Production of Mazda 2s for the Chinese market is scheduled to start at the Changan Ford Mazda Nanjing plant by the end of 2007.