Toyota Motor unveils bZ3 all-electric sedan for Chinese market

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Toyota Motor Corporation ("Toyota") on Oct. 24 unveiled the Toyota bZ3, the second model in its bZ series. The new model is an all-electric sedan co-developed for the Chinese market by BYD Toyota EV Technology Co., Ltd. (called “BTET” for short, a joint venture between Toyota and BYD Company Ltd.) and FAW Toyota.

Produced by and sold through FAW Toyota's dealer network, the bZ3 will vie with such hotter-selling models in China as the Tesla Model 3 and the BYD Han EV.

Photo credit: bZ3

The Toyota bZ3 adopts the development concept "Family Lounge", which embodies the company's idea that cars provide enjoyable time for families and friends, instead of merely being a means of transportation.

Photo credit: bZ3

The model's front features the Toyota bZ series' iconic hammerhead shark-like design format. With a relaxing silhouette, the exterior features a highly modulated and elegant profile that hints at a linear sense of speed. The corners of the bumper accentuate air guides and air curtains, while the pop-out door handles, aluminum wheels, and elaborately shaped rear bumper together result in a drag coefficient as low as 0.218Cd.

Photo credit: bZ3

With dimensions of 4,725mm long, 1,835mm wide, 1,475mm tall, and a wheelbase that spans 2,880mm, the Toyota bZ3 plays in the league of medium-sized sedans.

Photo credit: bZ3

The interior features the Digital Island system that integrates a large vertically-sitting center display with tray-type console. In addition to wireless charging, the system offers functions for linking smartphones and multimedia. Meanwhile, voice control and other controls for air conditioning, music, trunk release, etc. are also integrated into the massive display.

The Toyota bZ3's powertrain system combines BYD's LFP battery and Toyota's electrification technologies honed through its extensive experience in HEV development, delivering a CLTC-rated range of over 600km. The TZ200-XS002 electric motor is supplied by BYD's FinDreams Powertrain, with two versions offered based on peak output—180kW and 135kW.