Toyota premiers its BZ4X concept
There is no denying that a wave of electric vehicles will be hitting the automotive industry soon and Toyota has made it know that they too want in. Toyota recently took to stage at the Shanghai Motor Show, to preview its first of zero-emission battery electric vehicle (BEVs). Toyota revealed that this medium-size SUV with all-wheel drive will be named the bZ4X. To better understand the name, Toyota explained that the term “bZ” actually stands for “beyond Zero”, which further support Toyota’s commitment to achieve zero carbon emissions and carbon neutrality.
Toyota have also revealed that the bZ4 concept be done in partnership with Subaru with a production version set be commenced around the mid-2022. The bZ4X Concept’s exterior design will give people a higher expectation of what to expect from an electric with Toyota promising to pull out all the stops. The bZ4 concept outside will have all the characteristics of an SUV with modern styling. The front will be different from any SUV seen on the road, as its “hammerhead” styled grille, lights and aero elements instantly set it apart.
The bZ4X Concept will be built on the new e-TNGA modular platform, which was developed specifically for electric vehicles. It will feature a long wheelbase and short overhangs which help create a very spacious and comfortable cabin. In fact, rear leg room is like that of a large D-segment model. The front cabin is designed around a “drive module” which gives the driver a sense of direct connection to the road and to access valuable information. The controls will be grouped around the centre console and was designed for easy recognition and operation. The digital driver’s instrument display will be positioned just above the steering wheel, ensuring that the driver will not get easily distracted.
The bZ4x concept will be get an on-board solar charging system, which will enhance the distance that the vehicle can cover. Thanks to Toyota’s many years of experience, the bZ4x concept will get a very powerful battery that will make the vehicle achieve a longer driving range. An all-wheel drive system will be fitted in the bZ4x concept too and will be delivered by electric motors on the front and rear axles. This system will also allow the bZ4x concept to achieve off-road capabilities. Also available on the bZ4x concept will be the world’s first combination of a steering yoke and a steer-by-wire system. This technology will give the driver a greater sense of control, by removing any interference from rough road surfaces and braking. The use of the steer-by-wire also means that the traditional, circular steering wheel we are accustomed to will be replaced it with a “yoke” shaped control.
The bZ4X Concept will be the first model to feature Toyota’s new bZ – beyond Zero – naming system. With Toyota aiming to introduce 15 battery electric vehicles by 2025, including seven new Toyota bZ models.
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FAQ
Q: What does the Toyota bZ4X cost in South Africa?
Toyota hasn't announced official South African pricing for the bZ4X yet, but expect it to start around R800,000 to R900,000 when it arrives in 2023, putting it in premium SUV territory alongside the likes of the BMW iX3.
Q: Is the Toyota bZ4X worth buying?
If you're looking for Toyota's legendary reliability in electric form, the bZ4X could be worth waiting for, but early adopters might want to see real-world performance and local service support before committing to what will likely be an R800,000+ purchase.
Q: When will the Toyota bZ4X be available in South Africa?
Toyota SA hasn't confirmed a local launch date, but with production starting mid-2022, expect the bZ4X to reach South African showrooms sometime in 2023 if Toyota decides to bring it here at all.
Q: What is the range and charging time of the Toyota bZ4X?
Toyota hasn't released final specifications yet, but expect around 400-450km of range and the ability to charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using fast DC charging, plus that clever solar roof system for extra juice.
Q: How does the Toyota bZ4X compare to other electric SUVs?
The bZ4X will compete directly with the BMW iX3 and upcoming Mercedes EQC in South Africa, offering Toyota's reliability reputation but likely at a similar premium price point of around R800,000 to R900,000.
Should You Buy It?
Hold your horses, boet. While the Toyota bZ4X looks promising with its space-age styling and Toyota's rock-solid reputation, it's still a concept car with no confirmed South African arrival date or pricing. If you need an electric SUV right now, the BMW iX3 at around R1,200,000 is your best bet, even though it'll cost you more than the bZ4X's expected R800,000 to R900,000 price tag. Wait for the bZ4X if you want Toyota reliability in electric form, but don't hold your breath for a quick launch in Mzansi.
