On October 29, Toyota unveiled its brand new bZ4X electric vehicle, marking the first model of its new bZ (beyond Zero) electric vehicle series.
The bZ4X is the first vehicle model created by the Japanese automaker as an entirely battery electric vehicle (BEV) and was first unveiled earlier this year as a concept vehicle. Additionally, the production-ready model is the first vehicle to be built on Toyota’s new BEV platform.
The all-wheel-drive SUV features a clean exterior design and debuts a new “hammerhead” front shape. A focal design of the bZ4X is the chassis-incorporated battery unit beneath under the vehicle floor to provide a low center of gravity, front/rear weight balance and high body rigidity. Additionally, the SUV includes separate electric motors for each axle to benefit off-road handling and performance.
When fully charged, the vehicle’s range is over 450 km (about 280 mi) with the battery expected to operate at 90% of its original performance after 10 years of driving, which is based on target development values. The period of use is assumed to be 10 years, or 240,000 km (about 150,000 mi). Additionally, the SUV’s key technology features include a roof solar panel to help charge the battery and improved active safety and driver assistance systems.
The SUV will make its European premiere on December 2 before the launch of online customer reservations.
Check out the bZ4X in the gallery above.
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