Toyota officially announced its entry into the EV market with the launch of its first electric-only model, the bZ4X crossover!
With the rapid evolution of the market and industry, it was about time for the Japanese behemoth to make its mark on the battery-electric vehicle segment. Notably, the automakers’ first rendezvous with the battery technology harks back to its innovative yet revolting Toyota Prius. Despite its ghastly appearance and character, the Prius managed to make a statement by offering impressive fuel efficiency numbers that set the tone for hybrids to go mainstream in the years to come.
Fast forward to today, with the EV space growing into a highly competitive market with startups and former pioneers battling it out for supremacy. In Toyota’s case, the “beyond zero” series first made airwaves earlier this year with an all-electric crossover concept — the bZ4X.
The production model retains most of the major design elements seen, starting from its front fascia. It is accentuated by futuristic and edgy-looking panels, such as the slim full-LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, air curtains, and a radiator grille at the bottom. Additionally, Toyota used a dual-tone finish on the fenders and wheel arches, helping it stand out from the crowd.
The edgy theme spills over to the sides with sharp body lines, spoke alloy wheels, black mirror caps, and a chrome strip running across the window sill. A sharp-looking single tail lamp highlights the rear end with a light strip spilling over to the quarter panels, much like a creeper. Finally, the design is topped off with a rugged rear bumper.
Along with the new styling, the bZ4X is bolted on Toyota’s brand-new e-TNGA platform specifically designed for battery electric vehicles. Akin to Ford’s C2 architecture, it supports multiple classes of vehicles.
The bZ4X packs a 71.4 kWh battery, mounted down below to give it a low center of gravity. Additionally, the system features cooling and heating functionalities to significantly reduce degradation and maintain optimal performance levels. Toyota promises 90% capacity retention in 10 years, currently the best in the industry.
Depending on the model, the bZ4X is available in FWD and AWD configurations. The FWD model features a single-motor producing 201 hp, eking out 311 miles of range (WLTP cycle). Meanwhile, the dual-motor AWD version packs two 107 hp motors (214 hp in total) and can travel up to 285 miles on one charge. Embracing the sustainability angle, Toyota also constructed the vehicle using the 3R approach (Rebuilt, Reuse, Recycle) to reduce waste and improve longevity.
The Japanese brand also bestowed the crossover with a smartly crafted interior, including all the latest tech. For starters, it receives a yoke steering wheel or the “one-motion grip” similar to the Tesla Model S Plaid. However, Toyota has tailored the yoke to a steer-by-wire system with motors responding based on the user’s inputs. Namely, the driver can alter the steering sensitivity using the driving modes, allowing up to 150 degrees of full lock, eliminating the need to cross hands.
Other noteworthy design elements include an ergonomically placed drivers’ display, an all-new infotainment system, and a solar or an optional panoramic sunroof. Last but not least, the bZ4X also features the latest driving assistance systems as part of the Toyota Safety Sense.
The Toyota bZ4X will compete against the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Expect the crossover to start arriving at dealerships during mid-2022, along with the full pricing information!
Gallery: Toyota bZ4X
