Toyota is set to launch its new electric SUV bZ3C in early 2025, boasting an impressive range of up to 630 kilometers, which is sure to attract significant attention. As a mid-sized SUV, the bZ3C is touted to be one of the smartest vehicles, developed in collaboration with FAW, featuring advanced smart driving systems and intelligent cockpit.
The vehicle made its debut earlier this year at the Beijing Auto Show, although the initial presentation resembled more of a concept car; its design is quite mature, showcasing the five-seat SUV with dimensions of 4780mm in length, 1866mm in width, 1510mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2880mm.
The bZ3C offers up to eight exterior configurations with five different color options, three of which also provide a two-tone version with a black area above the window line. Available colors include black, white, gray, orange, and red. The interior can be specified in red, black, or white, although it should be noted that this mainly applies to the upholstery and trims, while the upper part of the dashboard and steering wheel remain black.
The dashboard features a 15.6-inch infotainment screen that reportedly supports over 200 applications. Notably, it includes the industry's first monitoring system for drivers and passengers, utilizing AI for facial recognition, in-car video calls, reminders for not forgetting children, and features like gesture and voice control, along with a virtual assistant. The steering wheel itself is equipped with numerous buttons, and the dashboard lacks a head-up display.
The front seats can recline completely flat, allowing easy access to the second row and creating a comfortable sleeping space. The trunk offers a capacity of 463 liters, which is sufficient to accommodate four 24-inch suitcases. A lidar unit is mounted above the windshield, and the vehicle is expected to offer high-quality smart driving capabilities, capable of smart driving in urban areas, along with high-speed and parking functions.
According to information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology provided in September, the bZ3C is powered by a 200-kilowatt electric motor, with its battery supplied by BYD's FinDreams, utilizing lithium iron phosphate battery technology. Currently, battery capacities are unknown; however, there will be two versions available, one with a range of 550 kilometers and the other with a range of 630 kilometers.
Like many traditional joint ventures in China, the Toyota-FAW joint project has struggled to achieve sales, but the bZ3C appears to be relatively competitive and may provide the much-needed boost to this joint venture, especially considering its striking design.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
