Toyota launches two electric SUVs for China
The bZ3C crossover was developed together with BYD and FAW. It is the production version of the bZ Sport Crossover Concept, which was presented at the Auto China last year (then in Shanghai). Overall, the design has not changed. The manufacturer only adjusted minor details and replaced the cameras with exterior mirrors. It was obvious that there would only be a few changes – after all, the concept car was already based on the current Toyota design of the Prius. However, the production model features a lidar sensor on the roof.
The bZ3X was developed in cooperation with GAC. Although the model designation is similar to the bZ3C, it is an entirely different car – unlike VW, where the ID.4 X and ID.4 Crozz from its two joint ventures with FAW and SAIC differ only in details. The bZ3X SUV has a steeply raked rear window and appeals to a different audience than the bZ3C lifestyle crossover. The corresponding study from 2023 was called the bZ FlexSpace Concept – which already emphasised the space concept at the time.
Toyota has not yet provided any details on the drive systems. However, Car News China speculates that the two new models will have blade batteries from BYD subsidiary FinDreams. The background to this speculation is that FAW-Toyota launched the bZ3 electric saloon in China in 2022 – with electric motors and the same LFP cells from BYD.
There will only be clarity when Toyota publishes the technical data for both models. But that could still take some time: The market launch of the two electric vehicles is expected in 2025.
In China, Toyota seems to be focusing on electric mid-range SUVs. The situation is different in the US, where it is becoming apparent that Toyota will offer two large electric SUVs with three rows of seats. The carmaker will convert its factories in Indiana and Kentucky for EV production. In Kentucky, a completely new electric SUV with seven seats will roll off the production line, while the Toyota Highlander – rumoured to be getting an electric version – is currently manufactured in Indiana.
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