Toyota continues to expand its lineup of new models with the bZ3, which is something like the sedan brother of the bZ4x introduced last year. yesAlthough both share the brand’s e-TNGA platform, the main difference between the bZ3 and the bZ4x lies in its technology, since it uses BYD lithium-ion and LFP batteries, a package that the brand has not yet wanted to specify, but that not only allows it to achieve a more aerodynamic silhouette (0.218 Cd), but also to reach up to 600 kilometers of autonomy. The best? Toyota and BYD guarantee that this battery pack should maintain 90% of its capacity after 10 yearsif it loads correctly, we guess.
Who is the bZ3 targeting? Of course at Tesla Model 3even though the bZ3 – also called “the electric Corolla” – is slightly larger than Tesla’s car, at 4,725mm long and with a wheelbase of 2,880mm.
Inside, everything changes with respect to the bZ4x. If the design of the steering wheel and the position of the digital instrument panel are preserved, in the highest part of the dashboard (a la Peugeot i-Cockpit). The large panoramic screen of the central module is replaced by a vertical display that rests on a raised center console where we find the dial for the gear selector.
Apart from contemplating wireless charging for smart devicesthe large vertical screen allows all car operations in a very stylish minimalist interface “Tesla“, which will surely have detractors as fans. Of course, it will also have voice commands to more easily operate some functions such as opening the trunk, adjusting the climate control and more.
The brand points out that a lot of emphasis was placed on ride comfort and driving position, seeking to stress the driver as little as possible and the body of the occupants to fatigue as little as possible on long trips. The chassis calibration also aims to achieve much smoother and contained movements. Toyota calls this cabin, “Family Lounge”.
Toyota has not disclosed powertrain or battery specifications.
Toyota will manufacture its electric sedan with a major emphasis on efficiency. For this reason, the batteries have an advanced thermal management and monitoring system, whether charging or in case of an emergency.
The same can be said of its bodywork, with aluminum wheels, handles flush with the sheet metal, air curtains and a bumper that minimizes air resistance.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that this project is not only Toyota and BYD, but also FAW, who will manufacture the car in China. And I say in China, because at the moment this car will not leave that market. Its entry into the North American market is difficult due to taxes, unless Toyota decides to manufacture it there.
Its price is estimated to be close to 28 thousand dollars, which can mean a great advantage over the Tesla model.
