After Tesla accelerated the transition to electric cars and became the most valuable car manufacturer in the world, its competitors significantly increased the time and budget allocated to electric vehicles. In this context, Toyota came up with the Toyota bZ4X, the first model of the bZ product range.
The production version, the bZ4X, whose design and technology was developed in accordance with the concept shown at the beginning of this year, became the first model that Toyota developed battery-electric from the very beginning. The new model was also the first Toyota to have a platform developed specifically for battery electric vehicles.
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What does Toyota bZ4X offer with its features?
Powered by a 150 kW electric motor, the electric model produces 204 PS of power and 265 Nm of torque in its front-wheel drive version. The bZ4X’s 0-100 km/h acceleration is 8.4 seconds, and the maximum speed is 160 km/h. The all-wheel drive bZ4X has 217.5 PS and 336 Nm of torque and can accelerate from 0-100 km / h in just 7.7 seconds.
- Engine: 150 kW electric
- Front wheel drive model: 204 PS of power and 265 Nm of torque – 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds
- Four-wheel drive model: 217.5 PS power and 336 Nm torque – 7.7 seconds 0-100 km/h
- Battery: 71.4 kWh lithium
- Range: 450 km
- Platform: e-TNGA
- Charging time:80 percent in 30 minutes with 150 kW fast charge
The single pedal operation feature increases the energy regeneration of the brake, allowing the driver to accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal. The bZ4X can travel more than 450 kilometers on a single charge with a high-density lithium battery with a capacity of 71.4 kWh.
Toyota has developed the battery to deliver 90 percent of the original performance even after 10 years (240,000 kilometers) of driving. The battery, which maintains its reliability even at sub-zero temperatures thanks to its efficient and effective heating system, can reach 80 percent capacity in around 30 minutes with the 150 kW fast charging system.
However, the driving range of the bZ4X can be maximized with the optional solar panel. These panels charge the vehicle’s battery by generating electricity from solar energy with zero emissions and zero cost. Toyota estimates that solar panels can store energy to provide an annual driving range of 1800 km. Solar panels can store energy while driving or parked.
Toyota bZ4X is positioned on the new platform
The bZ4X was the first Toyota to be built on the e-TNGA platform, which was developed specifically for battery electric vehicles. With the new platform, the battery is integrated as an integral part of the chassis. At the same time, thanks to the positioning of the battery under the floor, it has a low center of gravity, ideal front/rear weight distribution, and high body rigidity for perfect safety, driving and handling. The new and flexible e-TNGA platform will also be used in future bZ models.
While Toyota bZ4X stands out with its dynamic features, thanks to the new platform, a long wheelbase and a wide cabin living space have been achieved. Being a large and comfortable SUV, the bZ4X also offers class-leading off-road performance with its four-wheel drive and electric motors on each axle. The fluid and powerful exterior design emphasizes the electric and SUV style of the vehicle, while the “hammerhead” front design of the new model range underlines the strong stance.
The cabin of the vehicle, on the other hand, was designed with the theme of “lagom”, which is a Swedish word and means “just in place”. Reflecting the comfort and spaciousness of a living room, the cabin is completed with a panoramic roof and soft materials. The thin instrument panel, which is positioned low, increases the feeling of spaciousness and provides a better viewing angle. The 7-inch TFT instrument cluster is placed just above the steering line, allowing the driver to read data with minimal eye movement.
The long wheelbase provides class-leading legroom for all passengers, as well as an assertive volume in the cargo area. With the seats in the normal position, a luggage capacity of 452 liters is offered.
Looking at the exterior dimensions of the Toyota bZ4X, it also reveals the design advantages brought by the e-TNGA platform. Compared to the RAV4, the bZ4X is 85 mm lower, has shorter front-rear overhangs and has 160 mm longer wheelbase than the RAV4. The vehicle’s general agility is also evident with its class-leading turning radius of 5.7 meters.
Toyota’s electric bZ4X is equipped with the third generation Toyota Safety Sense system, without compromising on safety. With new and improved features, it can prevent accidents by reducing many risks. The detection range of the millimeter wave radar and camera used in the vehicle has been expanded, increasing the performance of each function. In addition, remote software updates can be made for the vehicle with the new multimedia system.