Eventually, Toyota began to show concrete steps in banning electric vehicles. They introduced the name bZ (Beyond Zero) in the Auto Shanghai title as a future lineup of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). The path itself is opened by the bZ4X concept model, so one of the seven BEV members is ready to arrive by 2025.
Reducing CO2 emissions through electrification technology is not new to Toyota. This famous Japanese manufacturer is one of the pioneers of mass hybrid vehicles through the Prius which has existed since the late 90s. Even so, the development of electric cars was not that intense when they began to lead there. A little late but better warning not at all.
Toyota’s move towards the era of electric vehicles now looks even more significant with the bZ series. Not just a conversion from the conventional model either. Its development is more serious than that. It is confirmed to carry a special BEV platform that is flexible in order to present a wide variety of models and dimensions. Even so, Toyota does not move alone. There are forms of collaboration with other brands to combine their respective expertise. This includes BYD, Daihatsu, Subaru and Suzuki.
The Toyota bZ4X clearly embodies that collaboration. An electric SUV based on the e-TNGA platform developed by Toyota and Subaru. The synergy of Toyota’s expertise in developing electrification technology and Subaru, which is famous for being great in four-wheel drive affairs. Claimed to realize a comfortable performance at the same time.
As a result, an SUV with a unique design composition was born. It has a long wheelbase and short overhangs. Apart from the composition, the body strokes are also very quirky. Splashed the feel of the uniform design language of the RAV4, especially on the side profile. Even so, her curves made her much busier and futuristic.
In the profile, you can see the design signs of the RAV4 in the form of the side windows and roof. More than that, the curves and fenders are made muscular. Not to mention the use of thick glossy black cladding, it exudes a two-tone color combination rather than being limited to fender lipstick. More details can be found in futuristic strokes. For example on the front facade, you will not find eccentric grille openings full of curves and lines. Replaced by a strip as the bedroom for the sensors. The surface is more plain, it just plays a lot of grooves in the panel along with a little cavity in the apron area and intake on the side.
Inside the cabin is much more futuristic. Designed with a “Drive Module” which provides the driver a direct connection between road and driving information. The instrument panel is positioned low so that outside visibility feels roomy. In addition, the bZ4X Concept for the first time comes with an airplane cockpit-style steering yoke and a steer-by-wire system. To note, this optimistic design is part of the concept. Perhaps the realization is not that strange.
There are no detailed specifications for the production version for this Toyota electric SUV concept. However, it is certain that he carries a four-wheel drive system from Subaru’s decades of development expertise. Relying on electric motors on the front and rear axles to present differentiated All-Wheel Drive capabilities in their segments. Not only off-road capability, it is said to be able to provide a sense of security and worry-free in various road conditions.
The environmentally friendly profile is increasingly being emitted by the bZ4X Concept. The ability to recharge is supported by solar panels so that it can travel further distances. In addition, the battery requirements of the electric SUV have been designed to be tough while maintaining long lasting performance and mileage even in cold climates. All of course thanks to Toyota’s expertise in developing battery technology for hybrid and PHEV cars.
Yes, the new bZ4X is limited to being a concept model. The new plan will be marketed in mid-2022 and born from production facilities in Japan and China. Until the production version launches, various design adjustments can be expected. Also we can see later how great the specifications are.
