Toyota’s inaugural bZ4x electric vehicle starts around $18,000 in the Chinese market, leveraging BYD battery technology to deliver an estimated range of up to 630 kilometres (391 miles). Can the industry sustain its momentum in the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) market?
Introducing Toyota’s latest bZ4x electric vehicle designed specifically for China.
Consider recalling Toyota’s concept for a coupe-like SUV, introduced at the 2020 Beijing Auto Show. The highly anticipated sequel is finally here, rebranded with a fresh and exciting title.
The first batch of BZ5 models left the production line at FAW Toyota’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in China on May 16, marking several significant milestones.
As Bi Wenquan, government VP at FAW Toyota, highlighted, the brand-new EV showcases the partnership’s unwavering commitment to innovation, allowing it to keep pace with the rapidly evolving Chinese market.
The milestone BZ5 rollout celebrates a major achievement for the three-way partnership, marking the production of its 12 millionth vehicle to date, while simultaneously introducing one of its most critical electric vehicles yet.
In a strategic effort to reclaim its dominance in the regional market, FAW Toyota’s chief executive, Fujiwara Hiroyuki, emphasized the significance of “going global and thinking beyond local languages” as a fundamental aspect of Toyota’s recovery plan.
Toyota launched pre-orders last month, priced starting at a remarkably affordable 130,000 yuan, equivalent to approximately $18,000. Two BYD Blade LFP battery options are available: 65.28 kWh or 73.98 kWh, providing a claimed CLTC driving range of 550 kilometres (342 miles) and 630 kilometres (391 miles), respectively.
The “sensible cockpit” inside appears to represent a notable improvement over what one typically expects from Toyota vehicles in terms of sporty, bold designs. A 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the centre of a deliberately understated interior design arrangement.
The latest smartphone is loaded with advanced technology, featuring Momenta 5.0 for seamless performance and efficiency. The advanced driving system boasts more than 30 features, including metropolitan and freeway navigation assistance, as well as parking support, and much more.
The all-electric bZ5 measures 4,780 millimeters in length, 1,866 millimeters wide, and 1,510 millimeters tall, boasting a wheelbase of 2,880 millimeters, founded on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform.
The measurements for the brand-new Tesla Model Y are as follows: it stands at 4,797 millimeters in length, 1,920 millimeters in width, and 1,624 millimeters in height, with a wheelbase of 2,890 millimeters.
During the event, Toyota’s President, Koji Sato, emphasized that China currently occupies the top spot in terms of its intelligence and electrification capabilities. If our products resonate with Chinese consumers, they will undoubtedly gain traction globally.
