by New Toyota bZ5 electric model for the Chinese market
Toyota continues to expand its lineup of electric vehicles, and the latest addition is the bZ5 crossover, developed specifically for China. The model is manufactured by the FAW-Toyota joint venture, with batteries supplied by BYD. Key features:
Design and technical features
The exterior of the bZ5 remains largely unchanged – a distinctive front end, sloping roofline, and full-width rear lights. The car combines elements of a sedan, fastback, and crossover, and comes equipped with 21-inch wheels.
Model dimensions: 4,780 mm in length and a wheelbase of 2,880 mm, making it competitive among other electric crossovers in the Chinese market.
The interior features a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument panel, a panoramic roof, and a 10-speaker JBL sound system. Safety is ensured by nine airbags and a Level 2 ADAS autonomous driving system.
Technical specifications and prices
Two battery options from BYD are available – 65.28 kWh and 73.98 kWh. The model with the larger battery offers a range of 630 km, and charging from 30% to 80% takes 27 minutes. Both variants use the same electric motor with 268 hp.
The price of the bZ5 is approximately half that of the Tesla Model Y in China, making it an attractive option for the local market. For the same amount, one could purchase the Chinese version of the Toyota Corolla Cross.
The launch of the bZ5 confirms Toyota’s strategy to strengthen its position in the electric vehicle market, especially in China, where competition is particularly fierce. The use of BYD batteries allows the company to offer competitive technical specifications at a relatively affordable price.
