September 23rd 2022
While the automotive world is moving fast towards electric cars, Toyota has been slow in joining the EV bandwagon. However, that doesn’t mean the company is not listening to customer demands. Seeing the EV pressure in China and Europe, the Japanese automaker has decided to introduce a new all-electric sedan.
Bringing new EVs won’t be a problem for Toyota since the company has already created its own branded worldwide platform that can spawn various EV models. Called the E-TNGA platform, all future EVs from Toyota will use this platform.
The first Toyota EV, the bZ4X uses this platform, which is a compact SUV. The company has already initiated the delivery process, but some markets are facing a delay owing to a recall for a wheel-mounting issue.
Last year, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda said that the bZ4X would follow a range of new EVs. One of the concepts the CEO shared was the bZ sedan. AutoCar believes that Toyota will name it bZ3.
Rumors say the bZ3 sedan will soon be available in the Chinese market. There is a very strong demand for sporty sedans in China, and that makes the new EV sedan a valuable proposition. The European customers have to wait till early 2024.
Once it lands in China, it might give a tough time to the Tesla Model 3, which is already facing some competition from other electric models.
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology website revealed that the EV sedan would be accessible with two powertrains. The less powerful model will create 178 hp while the most powerful will generate 238 hp. Both powertrains come with a limited top speed of 99 mph.
Off note, Toyota has joined hands with BYD for enhanced battery technology. The bZ3 will likely use the new Blade lithium iron phosphate battery technology. According to reports, this battery contains high energy density and is safer than conventional batteries. The high-energy density allows the batteries to be smaller, reducing the vehicle’s weight and creating more space for occupants.
Source and Images: InsideEvs