The chief engineer of the BZ project confirmed talks with the GR division
This model will only be produced if it manages to achieve the performance expected from GR models
A GR BZ4X concept was unveiled at the last Tokyo Auto Show
Toyota could be working on a more powerful and more dynamic version of the BZ4X electric SUV, which could be the first EV wearing the GR badge.
Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division has been very active lately with the launch of the GR Yaris and the Corolla, as well as its work on the Supra.
The next vehicle to receive the GR treatment could be quite different however since it might be the BZ4X electric SUV.
Ever since Toyota showed a BZ4X GR Concept during the last Tokyo Auto Show, rumours have been claiming that such a vehicle would actually see the light of day and they now appear to be accurate.
The chief engineer for the BZ program, which is in charge of the electric vehicle development at Toyota, confirmed that his division has been in contact with the GR branch in order to assess a potential GR EV.
Since the BZ4X is currently the only electric vehicle offered by Toyota, it makes sense that those talks are about this model.
The engineer was quick to point out that this doesn’t mean that a GR BZ4X will be produced, however, because he says that the vehicle will have to meet the expectations set by the performance division before it can be made.
This is because Toyota doesn’t want to dilute the image of Gazoo Racing by forcing it to sell a vehicle whose performance could disappoint the fans of the division.
Since the most powerful version of the BZ4X only has 215 horsepower, a potential GR variant will have to benefit from a substantial boost in output to satisfy enthusiasts, in addition to heavy modifications in the suspension and steering department to ensure more dynamic handling.
If the company does manage to bring the performances of the BZ4X in line with its other GR models, a production version should be expected in the next few years.
