Toyota’s affordable electric vehicle, the bZ3X, has been making waves in China since its launch earlier this year. Priced at around $15,000, the bZ3X has become a best-seller in the Chinese market, outperforming competitors like Volkswagen, BMW, and Nissan. The success of the bZ3X can be attributed to a new locally-built EV motor that Toyota has secured to cut costs and stay competitive in the fierce EV price war in China.
The bZ3X, which is produced by Toyota’s joint venture, GAC Toyota, has already sold around 20,000 units, setting a new record for joint venture electric SUVs. The key to the bZ3X’s affordability lies in the new “made-in-China” EV motor developed by Japan’s Nidec. According to Nidec’s president, Mitsuya Kishida, the motor is sourced almost entirely from China, helping Toyota reduce production costs significantly.
The new EV motor from Nidec has enabled Toyota to offer the bZ3X at a starting price of $15,000. The electric SUV is available in seven different trims with prices ranging from 109,800 yuan to 159,800 yuan. It comes with two battery pack options, providing a driving range of up to 610 km on a single charge.
Despite its low price, the bZ3X offers a luxurious interior with advanced technology features, including a 12.3″ infotainment screen and Level 2 assisted driving capabilities. The SUV is powered by Momenta’s intelligent driving model, which incorporates nearly 50 advanced safety features.
In addition to the bZ3X, Toyota has also launched another electric SUV, the bZ5, in China. The bZ5, which is comparable in size to a Tesla Model Y, is priced at half the cost, starting at 129,800 yuan. Toyota’s push into the Chinese EV market seems to be paying off, with sales up 7.7% in the first five months of 2025.
Looking ahead, Toyota has plans to introduce more electric vehicles, including the bZ7, as it aims to further establish its presence in the Chinese market. The company recently broke ground on a new Lexus EV plant in Shanghai, signaling its commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup. Nidec, the supplier of the new EV motor, could potentially collaborate with Toyota on this project to ensure a steady supply of components.
Overall, Toyota’s strategic partnerships and focus on developing affordable electric vehicles are positioning the company for success in the rapidly growing Chinese EV market. With a strong lineup of electric vehicles and innovative technology, Toyota is poised to make a significant impact in the world of electric mobility.
