Japanese automaker, Toyota has unveiled the concept version of the upcoming Toyota bZ4X concept at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show. It is claimed to preview the first in a series of zero emission battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The bZ4X concept is a medium-size SUV with all-wheel drive system.
The ‘bZ’ is an acronym for ‘beyond Zero’, which shows the brand’s commitment to achieve zero carbon emissions and carbon neutrality. The new Toyota bZ4X concept has been developed by TOYOTA in partnership with Subaru Corporation. Sales of the production version are expected to commence in the middle of 2022.
The SUV’s design is inspired by the Toyota’s RAV4. The SUV features the familiar grille and features an arrangement of sensors, lights and aero elements in a distinctive “hammerhead” form. It is built on the new e-TNGA modular platform, which is specifically developed for electric vehicles. It features a long wheelbase and short overhangs, which makes it spacious inside the cabin. The rear legroom is claimed to be equivalent to that of the large D-segment model.
The cabin is claimed to be designed around a “drive module”. The low-set instrument panel opens up panoramic visibility. Controls are placed around the centre console, designed for easy recognition and operation. The digital driver’s instrument display is positioned above the steering wheel, so only minimal eye movement is required to register information.
The SUV’s all-wheel drive system delivered by electric motors on the front and rear axles are developed together with Subaru. Toyota bZ4X Concept is the first model to feature Toyota’s new bZ – beyond Zero – naming convention. By 2025, Toyota aims to introduce 15 battery electric vehicles, including 7 Toyota bZ models.
