Electric SUV teased by Toyota

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【Summary】Toyota is teasing its new compact electric SUV in a video, aiming to catch up in the EV market. The automaker hopes the smaller bZ compact SUV will help boost its EV sales, which currently make up less than 1% of its total car sales. Toyota struggled with its first electric vehicle, but believes its next-gen models will level the playing field. The new compact electric SUV features a futuristic design, minimalistic interior, and advanced connectivity.

FutureCar Staff Sep 21, 2023 11:26 PM PT

Toyota has released a teaser video showcasing its new compact electric SUV, as the company aims to catch up in the growing market for electric vehicles. The Japanese automaker has been slow to adopt EV technology, with electric vehicles accounting for less than 1% of its total car sales. However, Toyota believes that its next-generation models, including the bZ compact SUV, will help level the playing field.

In November of last year, Toyota unveiled the bZ compact SUV, which is set to sit below the bZ4X. The company claims that the new electric SUV has been designed with a clean and modern aesthetic, featuring an aerodynamic design and innovative tech features that have not been seen in previous Toyota models. The company's vice president, David Christ, stated that the bZ Concept showcases a possible vision of the future.

In the teaser video, Toyota highlights some key design elements of the new electric SUV. These include a full-length LED light bar that runs across the rear, connecting the taillights. The license plate also features the text "Z Compact SUV," and there is a "BEV" badge next to a blue circle, which was also shown on the prototype last year.

Inside the vehicle, Toyota has focused on minimalism and connectivity. The compact electric SUV features an "in-car agent" named "Yui" that can connect passengers to the vehicle, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience.

While Toyota has not yet revealed specific details about the powertrain of the new electric SUV, the company has committed to making its next-generation EV models more efficient. Toyota aims to offer advanced batteries that provide a range of nearly 500 miles by 2026. Currently, the bZ4X, powered by a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, offers up to 252 EPA miles of range and starts at $42,000.

With the release of this teaser video, Toyota is signaling its commitment to the electric vehicle market and its desire to compete with other automakers in the industry. By focusing on innovative design, advanced technology, and improved efficiency, Toyota hopes to make a significant impact in the growing EV market.