The Toyota bZ4X Concept, presented at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show, previews the first in a series of zero-emission battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The bZ4X, a medium-size SUV with all-wheel drive, is integral to Toyota’s transition from a pure car company to a business dedicated to delivering better mobility for all.
The ‘bZ’ is an abbreviation of ‘beyond Zero’, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment not only to achieving zero carbon emissions and carbon neutrality, but also going beyond to realise new benefits for the environment, for individuals and for society as a whole.
Read more about the Toyota bZ series
The new Toyota bZ4X Concept has been developed by Toyota Motor Corporation in partnership with Subaru Corporation, drawing on the specific skills and experience of each company. Sales of the production version are expected to commence around the middle of 2022.
Introducing the Toyota bZ4X Concept
The Toyota bZ4X is more than just a means of transport. It is also a comfortable and connected space where people can enjoy spending time together on a journey.
Read more What is Beyond Zero? Toyota’s bZ strategy explained
Chief Engineer Koji Toyoshima explains: “Our target customer is someone who places importance on time spent together with family and friends. When they want to enjoy such times, Toyota bZ4X Concept can serve as a hub for them.”
Exterior design combines dynamism and utility
The Toyota bZ4X Concept’s exterior design anticipates people’s high expectations of an electric vehicle driving experience that requires no compromises. Its overall form marries dynamism and utility: there is a high driving position characteristic of SUVs but the car still appears planted on the road. The bodywork presents sensuous surfaces, combined with precise and high-tech styling.
The front of the car – an instant point of recognition for any vehicle – dispenses with the familiar grille and instead features an arrangement of sensors, lights and aero elements in a distinctive ‘hammerhead’ form, generating a new attitude and road presence.
Toyota bZ4X Concept: spacious cabin and ‘drive module’
The Toyota bZ4X Concept is built on the new e-TNGA modular platform, developed specifically for electric vehicles. A long wheelbase and short overhangs help create a notably spacious and open cabin. In fact, rear leg room is similar to 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 important information. The low-set instrument panel opens up panoramic visibility and emphasises the sense of space. Controls are grouped 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.
Battery management a key to optimising driving range
The development programme has reaped the benefits of more than 20 years of Toyota’s leadership in vehicle electrification and the company’s brand-defining quality, durability and reliability. This has ensured the electric powertrain – motor, control unit and battery management system – deliver class-leading efficiency and a very competitive driving range.
The car’s environmental profile is further strengthened by an on-board solar charging system, which enhances the distance that can be covered. Thanks to Toyota’s extensive experience in developing battery technology for its hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric models, the larger, more powerful battery required for Toyota bZ4X Concept has been engineered for reliable, lasting performance, maintaining the car’s driving range, even in cold climates.
Toyota bZ4X: authentic all-wheel drive capability
The all-wheel drive system, delivered by electric motors on the front and rear axles, has been developed together with Subaru. The rich heritage and deep expertise of both Toyota and Subaru have been combined to deliver a best-in-class all-wheel drive capability that sets the Toyota bZ4X Concept apart in its segment. The system gives genuine off-road capability that also provides extra security and peace of mind for drivers in all on-road conditions.
Read more about our electrified technologies
Advanced steer-by-wire system
Toyota bZ4X Concept will be available with a world-first* combination of a steering yoke and a steer-by-wire system. This technology gives the driver greater control, removing interference from rough road surfaces and braking, and thus more precise response in line with the vehicle’s speed and steering angle.
Steer-by-wire also dispenses with the traditional, circular steering wheel, replacing it with a different shape ‘yoke’ control, so the driver no longer has to move their hands around the wheel as they make a turn, adding to the car’s fun-to-drive quality.
(*For a mass-production model; UK specs to be confirmed at a later date)
Good to see that Solar Power is utilized. I assume this means that a Battery ‘Top Up’ can be achieved any where? I have not seen this mentioned with any other Toyota Model or any other Manufacturer. Seems to me to be a very positive Marketing Tool.
Hi Malcolm,
More details will be available soon.
Thanks for your interest!
The best looking SUV that Toyota has shown in some time, but the ‘face’ still leaves a lot to be desired. As someone who has a Prius Plug-in, it would be good to see a sleek BEV saloon by 2024. Alternatively, Toyota revising the front of the BZ4X to compete in looks with the Jaguar and Aston Martin (less of a flat slab of a nose and bulldog mouth). However, great innovative interior; love the controls! The most important questions; “What will the range and charging times be?”.
Hi John,
Thanks for your interest in the bZ4X concept.
The front of the concept vehicle was specifically crafted to portray a new attitude and road presence through its arrangement of sensors, lights and aero elements arranged in a distinctive ‘hammerhead’ form.
However, it’s great to hear that you love the interior!
We don’t have any further specification information to share at this current moment, so make sure that you keep an eye on our blog and social channels for the latest.
Thanks.
How much cost about zero emersion Toyota ??
Hi Mr Bindatta Lamichhane,
Would you be able to clarify your question for us please?
We’re not quite sure what you’re asking.
Thanks.
Great first images and design. Am really interested if the Subaru collaboration will lead to a TRD type model being released in Europe as opposed to just a limited 4WD to allow this to have potentially increased off-road capability than the current RAV4 in Europe
Hi Simon,
Thanks for your kind words about the bZ4X Concept!
We don’t have any information to share on any further product plans.
Thanks.
I’m 6months away to upgrade my vehicle, running on hybrids for 5years now, should I wait for full electric or is it to far away for now!
Hi Bruno,
Thanks both for your comment and your interest!
The production model resulting from this concept is scheduled to go on sale for the middle of 2022.
Thanks.
May we expect the BZ4X next year in the UK market?
Hi,
The bZ4X is due to go on sale in mid-2022.
Thanks
When are we likely to see BEV versions of all Toyota vehicles? When will Toyota release an affordable BEV?
Hi Mark,
Thanks for your comment.
By 2025, Toyota aims to introduce 15 battery electric vehicles, including seven Toyota bZ models.
You can read more about our bZ strategy here: https://mag.toyota.co.uk/beyond-zero/.
Thanks.
Looks fantastic can’t wait to see uk specs and price range
Hi Stephen,
Thanks for your interest.
We recommend registering for updates, so you get the latest news on this vehicle direct to your inbox. You can do that here: https://fal.cn/3fdB5
Thanks
The car looks great but very big. Is the electric range for all car manufacturers to use costly materials, gadgets and make bigger cars in general. I can just get the Yaris in my garage. Surely smaller cars, less complicated is the way to go to help the environment. The chances of getting a car less than £20k is not an option now. What are you playing at? I bought my first house for £30k and I don’t want to live in the car that is for sure. There is a market for cheaper less complicated cars but if all manufacturers are going in one direction who is going to do the right thing for no fuss travel. Tell me now which direction and I may have to say goodbye and look elsewhere which would be a shame.
Hi Michael, thanks for your comment.
Considering the bZ4X is our very first BEV, there is plenty of scope for something to suit your requirements in the future. We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and we will pass this along to our team. Thanks.
I am confused “ By 2025, Toyota aims to introduce 15 battery electric vehicles, including seven Toyota bZ models.”, so if there are 7 bZ models is that one type of car with 7 trim levels/specs? So should we expect another big BEV car or smaller BEV car?
Will I know within 10months before my PCP runs out.
Hey, if you ever need more feedback I’m happy to help.
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your reply.
Seven bZ models refers to seven different vehicles, rather than different trim levels.
We don’t have any information to share regarding the rest of the bZ range at this time, but keep an eye on our blog and socials for the latest.
In the meantime, you can read more about our Beyond Zero strategy here: https://mag.toyota.co.uk/beyond-zero/.
Thanks.
This car looks really interesting, will UK show rooms have some available for viewing before they go on sale?
Hi Vern,
Thanks for your kind words about the bZ4X concept!
We don’t have any information to share regarding demonstrator availability yet, but keep an eye on our blog and social channels for the latest.
Thanks.