Toyota hosted a media briefing during which CEO Akio Toyoda discussed the automaker’s strategies for expanding its EV lineup into 2030. Among the onslaught of electric models previewed today, Toyota unveiled four concepts that will fall under its emerging “bZ” Beyond Zero sub-brand. The bZ-badged battery-electric concepts include a large SUV, two crossovers, and a sedan, all of which will use the new e-TNGA platform, just like the bZ4X SUV coming next year.
While Toyota did not say if any of the four EV concepts are coming to North America, we could see at least two introduced in the U.S. The Japanese carmaker did not release estimated range, battery size, or charging times. Nevertheless, let’s look at what the future holds for Toyota.
bZ Large SUV
The bZ Large SUV is what you would get if the upcoming bZ4X (due in mid-2022) was merged with the current Toyota Highlander three-row SUV. This model features two-tone paint, a long boxy body, has an available third-row seat, and looks like an upscale version of the bZ4X. Based on the size and elegant design, it is plausible that it would compete in the luxury EV space, though Lexus has its own claim to that area (plus a rash of planned EVs coming soon).
bZ Compact SUV
At first glance, the bZ Compact SUV comes off as a futuristic and sleeker version of the current Toyota CH-R. The compact-sized crossover sports a blacked-out roof and wheels and appears to have concealed door handles for the rear doors. You’ll also notice it has a bit of the Aygo X Prologue concept design language, especially the headlights. We hope this one makes it to the States, because it’s hardly boring to look at.
bZ Small Crossover
Akio Toyoda said Toyota designed the bZ small crossover with European and Japanese roads in mind. As such, we don’t expect it to ever go on sale here, given its super compact size. This tiny crossover wears a two-tone color scheme, is sporty looking, and has a city vibe, perfect for life on the go.
bZ SDN
The bZ SDN is a midsize sedan that Toyoda says will meet the expectations of first-time new car buyers. It resembles a classy cross-interpretation of the Toyota Corolla and a Tesla Model 3 and is painted in a delightful soft rose gold color; it even has hints of the hydrogen-fueled Mirai in it. As the growing demand for SUVs and crossovers continues its reign in America, the odds of another sedan by Toyota coming here are pretty slim, though don’t count it out entirely—compact sedans still represent a big share of the market.
Keyword: Future Of Toyota's bZ Beyond Zero Electric Brand Previewed By Four Eye-Catching Concepts