Toyota has revealed its latest electric vehicle (EV), the new bZ Compact electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) Concept, at the LA Convention Center. The company gave a glimpse of what the future could be with the Toyota bZ Compact SUV, extending the vision under the “Toyota bZ” brand umbrella. This follows Toyota announcing the bZ4X electric car that is ready for its European sales launch.
David Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager said: “We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of the Beyond Zero moniker.
“With an aerodynamic design coupled with intuitive tech features never before seen in a Toyota model, the bZ Concept showcases another possible vision of the very near future with our battery electric vehicles.”
The Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept is designed as a full battery-electric vehicle, using a clean-vital design approach. This approach aims to express what’s special about battery electric vehicles while also offering fun-to-drive, exhilarating performance.
It represents a vehicle with zero emissions and uses eco-conscious interior materials, that also offers dynamic performance, leading technology and a stylish appearance.
The sleek-looking aerodynamic form of the concept enhances its futuristic look by pushing the wheels to the corners to achieve an aggressive stance – making it appear as if it’s moving even when standing still.
The short overhangs and sweepback angles make it stand out as an advanced technology vehicle. Its narrowed-down cabin design gives it an agile appearance and offers a low coefficient of drag.
The edgy styling extends to the interior with premium finishes resulting in a distinctive look. The design team included several eco-friendly touches, like seating made from plant-based and recycled materials to follow the Beyond Zero theme.
An in-car personal agent named ”Yui” connects the driver and passengers with the vehicle. With the use of audio and visual lighting cues that move around the cabin, it responds to requests or commands from the front or rear passengers.
Toyota says the Beyond Zero message encourages diligently adapting how we live our lives in the present to ensure a better future for all. The company envisions a future in which carbon neutrality is achieved through the practical marketisation of a portfolio of products with advanced, alternative-fuel and zero-emission powertrain technologies.
Globally, Toyota plans to expand to around 30 dedicated battery electric vehicles (BEVs), including five carrying the bZ (Beyond Zero) brand moniker, by 2030. This diverse portfolio of electrified products will help propel Toyota toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
Back in September, Toyota announced it would be investing up to £4.9 billion in battery production in Japan and the US to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles. The company also announced in July a collaboration with Suzuki, Daihatsu and CJPT to introduce an electric mini commercial van in 2023.
