Toyota is launching a new brand umbrella called Toyota bZ for its upcoming EVs
Toyota bZ4X BEV Concept gives us a glimpse of the first Toyota bZ model
Seven Toyota bZ models planned by 2025
Toyota has always been known for its hybrid vehicles, but the automaker was trailing behind direct competitors when it came to fully-electric vehicles. The new Toyota bZ lineup announced today with the introduction of the Toyota bZ4X concept aims to help Toyota catch up to the likes of Nissan, Kia, Hyundai and Mazda.
Toyota didn’t provide many details about the bZ4X concept in terms of specs. We don’t know the battery capacity or the number of electric motors nor their potential horsepower. We were told that the bZ4X will arrive in production form in North America in mid-2022.
Toyota bZ4X Concept | Photo: Toyota
By 2025, Toyota hopes to have seven bZ models along with 70 new electrified vehicles. The brand also promises to electrify its truck lineup, meaning hybrid versions of the Tacoma and Tundra within the same timeframe. That said, Toyota also promises electric versions of its trucks.
The Toyota bZ4X concept was developed in collaboration with Subaru on a brand-new e-TNGA platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. Interestingly, the AWD system that will be offered on the bZ4X appears to have been developed by Subaru which bodes well for its effectiveness.
An open interior, long wheelbase and short overhangs will provide plenty of interior space as EVs typically do. A new centre console design featuring a large centre console and a fully digital instrument cluster are also included.
What we particularly like here is that the bZ4X doesn’t look like a concept, specifically inside. The interior could work on any production car while the exterior also looks ready to go into production. There’s a definite connection to Lexus from the outside, the bZ4X rear quarter-panel looking very similar to a Lexus utility vehicle. That’s not a bad thing.
Toyota bZ4X Concept Interior | Photo: Toyota
