Toyota has unveiled two BEV concept models, the bZ Sport Crossover Concept and bZ FlexSpace Concept, at Auto Shanghai.
The concept models are being developed as part of the Toyota bZ series, a brand dedicated to BEVs. They will be launched in the Chinese market in 2024 as two models out of the ten BEV models that Toyota plans to release by 2026.
Toyota says it is accelerating the expansion of its BEV line-up jointly with local partners to offer products with more value that better appeal to customers in China.
The bZ Sport Crossover Concept is described by the company as a crossover-type BEV with active and distinctive styling being jointly developed by Toyota, BYD TOYOTA EV TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. (BTET)―a joint venture established by Toyota and BYD Co., Ltd. (BYD)―., FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (China) Co., Ltd. (TMEC).
It is planned to be produced and sold by FAW Toyota Motor. The concept of this model is “Reboot,” which incorporates the idea of a change of pace the moment you get in and drive around.
Toyota says it has been designed with functions to provide a personal space for the younger customers, or Generation Z. The bZ Sport Crossover Concept is also being developed so that its functions will continue to evolve after purchase, including intelligent features such as driver assistance and automatic parking, ‘so that owners can continuously enjoy a most up-to-date car with all five senses’.
The bZ FlexSpace Concept is described by Toyota as a family-oriented SUV-type BEV with a focus on utility. It is being jointly developed by Toyota, Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC), GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and TMEC, and is planned to be produced and sold by GAC Toyota Motor. The concept of this model is “Cozy Home,” to create a space that families can use safely, comfortably, and freely with peace of mind.
The bZ FlexSpace Concept offers a large cabin space, ease of use, advanced safety, a reliable cruising range, as well as various intelligent functions. Toyota says development is ongoing to ‘create a car that is ideal for families, friends, and couples to make daily life even more enjoyable’.
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