Production can begin in mid-2022 for certain markets.
To preview Toyota’s entry in the growing crossover EV market, the Toyota bZ4X concept electric vehicle arrives. The production version will be available in Japan and China by mid-2022. The automaker has not yet shared details about the US market for the vehicle, but said that they would soon.
The front of the bZ4X has a small hexagonal grille on the fascia, and vertical gills at the corners. There are no openings. Each of the narrow headlights has four LED elements, and a strip to serve as daytime running lights.
The profile of the bZ4X is complex. It has a scooped-out section that runs along the shoulder line, and a crease at the lower portion that curves upward towards the rear fenders. The C-pillar’s steep rake creates a sharp silhouette when viewed from the side.
The bZ4X’s back follows the trend of including a full-width strip to the taillights. The lamps have a futuristic look thanks to horizontally stacked LEDs.
The driver is looking through the steering wheel at the digital instrument cluster at the gutter. This design is meant to reduce glare while keeping the screen open. The center console houses a large infotainment screen at the top, while buttons to operate the HVAC system can be found below. The center console contains a knobby controller to control the drive modes and buttons for adjusting the assistance systems. It also houses an infotainment touchpad with a blue glow.
Toyota has not disclosed any details about the powertrain other than to say that the bZ4X has all-wheel drive. This model is a joint venture with Subaru. It rides on the eTNGA platform for electric cars.
Toyota’s name for an upcoming family EVs is “beyond zero”, and the “bZ” moniker represents that. Already trademarks have been applied by Toyota for the names bZ1X through Z5X. These names are not without the “X”, suggesting that these won’t have all-wheel drives.
Toyota intends to launch seven models in the bZ family by 2025. They would join 15 electric vehicles. Toyota also plans to produce around 70 vehicles with some type of electrification. A pickup truck with electrification is also in the pipeline.