Toyota’s first pure-electric PRODUCTION CAR

Toyota NZ says the key to BZ4X success will be getting it into the used market

It’s not often that an automotive brand reveals a high-tech new model and says it can’t wait for it to be a used car. But that’s pretty much Toyota New Zealand’s position on the BZ4X, the first-ever Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) from the Japanese maker revealed at last month’s Shanghai Motor Show.

The BZ4X is a concept for now but a production version of the pure-electric Rav4style SUV will spawn a whole range of “BZ” production models (it stands for Beyond Zero, highlighting emissions-free electric powertrains) — seven by 2025.

So it’s a definite for NZ, but TNZ chief executive Neeraj Lala admits the BZ4X will be out of the reach of most Kiwi buyers: “BEVS will eventually become a sustainable means of mobility. However, it will take time as the energy mix, battery technology and infrastructure are still being developed.

“As there is significant research and development cost recovery on new technology, this first Toyota BEV for NZ will not be an affordable BEV for all Kiwi households and businesses. Our focus will also be on how we can transition BZ4X into the used vehicle market as quickly as possible so all Kiwis can become familiar and enjoy this new technology in an affordable manner. This is why we see affordable hybrids and plug-in hybrids as transitional technology and a bridge to a sustainable, low emissions future.”

Toyota says its 2025 model range will include hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), BEV and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) technology.