Japanese automaker Toyota has made a significant foray into the electric vehicle market with the launch of its latest model, the bZ3X. This new all-electric SUV is Toyota’s first in the RMB 100,000 class and has already garnered impressive initial acceptance, with over 10,000 orders secured within the first hour of its launch.
GAC Toyota, Toyota’s joint venture with GAC Group, unveiled the bZ3X at a recent event, setting a starting price of RMB 109,800 ($15,150). The model aims to challenge the notion that Japanese EVs are expensive and lacking in intelligent features. The competitive pricing and specifications of the bZ3X have generated a buzz, leading to a surge in orders immediately after its launch.
The bZ3X is available in seven variants, including five without LiDAR technology and two with LiDAR, making GAC Toyota the first joint venture car brand in China to incorporate LiDAR. The model’s pricing ranges from RMB 109,800 to RMB 159,800, with limited-time purchase entitlements bringing the starting prices down even further.
As part of Toyota’s bZ lineup, the bZ3X follows the success of the bZ4X SUV and the bZ3 electric sedan. The bZ3X features standard SUV styling with impressive dimensions and a modern interior design, including a large center screen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.
One of the standout features of the bZ3X is its smart driving system developed in collaboration with Momenta, a Chinese autonomous driving startup. The model offers full-scenario Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) functionality without the need for HD maps, providing a seamless driving experience.
With a single electric motor delivering up to 165 kW of power, the Toyota bZ3X offers impressive CLTC range options of up to 610 km. The model’s integration of advanced technology and efficient performance highlights Toyota’s commitment to innovation in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Toyota’s entry into the electric vehicle segment signifies a shift towards sustainable mobility solutions and a strategic move to keep pace with China’s electrification transition. As the demand for NEVs continues to rise, the bZ3X positions Toyota as a key player in the competitive EV landscape, offering consumers a compelling choice in the affordable electric SUV market.
