Toyota New Zealand has confirmed the long-awaited bZ4x electric SUV will launch in New Zealand in 2024, the start of a fresh array of zero-emissions vehicles.
The ‘Beyond Zero’ range (which ‘bZ’ stands for) will kick off “early next year” with the bZ4x, which Steve Prangnell, Toyota’s vice-president of new vehicles, says will bring “new mobility solutions… and an enjoyable driving experience.”
“We are aiming to create value for people and the planet beyond zero emissions. The Toyota bZ4X SUV is the first of a range of battery electric vehicles (BEV) that we will launch in NZ, which will appeal to everyday New Zealanders, as they are borne of the same stable that has created Toyota’s legendary well-built, easy-to-drive vehicles.”
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The Toyota bZ4x electric SUV will land here in early 2024.
The bZ4x is yet to be priced but will land in two guises – the front-wheel bZ4X Pure and all-wheel drive bZ4X Motion. Both have an underfloor lithium-ion 71.4kWh battery, which can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes at a 150kW charging station.
The FWD version will pack a single 150kW electric motor, while the AWD version gets two 80kW motors. Torque is yet to be confirmed.
Dimensionally, the electric SUV is 4690mm long, 1860mm wide and 1650mm tall, or almost exactly the same size as the RAV4 (which is 4600mm long, 1855mm wide and 1685 tall.)
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Two variants will come to New Zealand, both using a 71.4kWh electric battery.
“While it is packed with new technology, including our third-generation active safety systems, it drives like any other Toyota – you don’t have to learn a new way of driving or worry about how the software works. Just jump in the car and drive it with hardly any learning curve at all.”
“Plus, we know that many customers are loyal to Toyota because of the outstanding and personal service they receive at one of our 60 nationwide stores. This will continue with all bZ cars and is a good reason why customers should consider a battery electric vehicle from Toyota and how it can fit into their lifestyles,” he says.
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Initial numbers will be limited, so if you’re interested in Toyota’s first EV, best get in quick.
“Toyota is entering the global BEV market with the customer experience at the forefront of our strategy, and it is the same in NZ. We are investing in wrap-around support for customers and the new bZ series, with a comprehensive customer benefits program, specialist Store sales staff, technicians, plus chargers at all of our Stores.”
As with many Toyota vehicles at the moment, it seems supply will be an issue, at least initially. Toyota advises those interested to sign up for updates on its website to receive the most up-to-date information or speak to their local Toyota Store.
