by New Toyota bZ5 electric vehicle in China: affordability and technologies
Sales of the new Toyota bZ5 electric crossover have started in China, offering an impressive price-to-quality ratio. The base version costs 129,800 yuan (approximately $18,100), making it significantly more affordable than most competitors on the market. For comparison, the Tesla Model Y in China starts from 263,500 yuan.
The model is available in four trim levels, with the price difference between the base and top versions being insignificant. The most affordable modification, the 550 Joy, offers a range of 550 km (according to the Chinese CLTC cycle), while the 630 Pro with a larger battery can travel up to 630 km. Both variants use lithium iron phosphate batteries from BYD.
Despite the low price, the bZ5 is equipped with modern technologies, including an autopilot system with 33 sensors, a 15.6-inch multimedia system, and a digital instrument panel.
Interestingly, even in its top trim, the bZ5 remains significantly cheaper than the Model Y. Such a pricing policy could make the model very popular among Chinese buyers, especially considering the growing demand for affordable electric vehicles.
The electric vehicle market in China continues to amaze with its dynamics. Local manufacturers, such as BYD, together with international giants like Toyota, are creating increasingly affordable models with good range. This allows electrification to reach ever wider segments of the population, which is a key factor for a mass transition to “green” transportation.
