Toyota calls them battery-electric vehicles (BEV) – to distinguish them from hybrids – and it is a new line of battery-electric vehicles that under the premise beyond Zero (beyond zero) underscores the brand’s commitment to so-called sustainable mobility.
The new model arrives in concept form, it is called bZ4X and it is the first to use the bZ nomenclature. Toyota wants to market fifteen electric vehicles between now and 2025, including seven under this name.
Serial production
This first proposal is a mid-sized, four-wheel drive SUV co-developed with Subaru and presented as a concept but with the aim of reaching production by mid-2022.
Toyota
It features a striking elevated riding position with an angular aesthetic. The front leaves the traditional grill and instead has a series of sensors, lights and aerodynamic elements that combine to form an original hammer shape.
It is manufactured on the new modular e-TNGA platform, specially developed for electric vehicles and which allows for a longer wheelbase, which translates into improved habitability. According to Toyota, the legroom in the rear is even equal to that of the largest models in the D-segment.
Toyota
Likewise, the front of the cab is designed around a ‘driving module’ that gives the driver the feeling of being connected to the road and the most relevant information. The lower positioned instrument panel provides all-round visibility and emphasizes the feeling of spaciousness.
Toyota
The controls are grouped around the center console, designed for easier and faster recognition and manipulation. The digital instrument panel is on the steering wheel, so you hardly have to move your eyes to see the information.
The Toyota bZ4X has a solar charging system that extends the distance to be covered.
Unprecedented technology
The four-wheel drive, with electric motors on the front and rear axles, was developed in collaboration with Subaru. It offers more off-road capability and a road safety plus.
This bZ4X uses an unprecedented combination that combines a steering fork and a cable system. The benefit, according to Toyota, is that it gains more control over the driver and suppresses interference from uneven surfaces and brakes. Thus, it provides a more precise response in accordance with the vehicle speed and steering angle.
Toyota
This steer-by-wire technology also eliminates the traditional round steering wheel and eliminates the need for the driver to move his hands over the steering wheel rim to make a turn, enhancing driving pleasure.
The aforementioned beyond Zero strategy is based on four pillars:
- ‘You and the environment’, which takes into account not only the energy the vehicle uses to drive, but also how renewable energy sources, such as solar energy, can be used.
- ‘You and your vehicle’, where an electric vehicle with battery, designed on a specific platform, benefits from the most modern technologies and offers excellent connectivity to enjoy a safe, peaceful and pleasant experience on board.
- ‘You and the Others’ guides the creation of battery-powered electric vehicles with a spacious and quiet environment that inspires people to interact and share experiences.
- ‘You and society’ looks at the global impact on society, so that the world is a better place for everyone.
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