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The Tesla Model Y Has A New Rival From Toyota That’s Half The Price

  • The Toyota bZ5 is a new electric crossover produced by FAW for the Chinese market.
  • It’s equipped with BYD batteries, delivering up to 630 km (392 miles) of CLTC range.
  • Pre-sales have already begun in China, with prices starting at just 130,000 rmb ($18,000).

If you thought Toyota couldn’t produce an affordable EV, think again. Well, at least if it’s made in China and relies on BYD for its batteries. Toyota is slowly catching up with the EV game, and its latest effort is the bZ5, a new electric crossover fastback developed in China. Manufactured by the FAW-Toyota joint venture, it features BYD-sourced battery packs to power its electric drive.

More: Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S

The bZ5 is essentially a rebranded version of last year’s bZ3C, which itself evolved from the bZ Sport Crossover Concept introduced back in 2023. By adopting the bZ5 name, Toyota seems to be aiming to position this new EV above the entry-level bZ3 sedan, but just below the upcoming bZ7 flagship.

Design That’s Familiar, But Still Fresh

The exterior design sticks with what Toyota’s been rolling out lately. That includes the usual hammerhead front end, subtle cladding around the wheel arches, a sloping roofline, and full-width taillights. The bZ5 mixes sedan, fastback, and crossover elements, all riding on 21-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, there is a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster mounted close to the windshield, and a floating center console. The front seats can transform into a bed, which comes in handy in combination with the nap mode of the infotainment system.

Other perks include a panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker JBL audio system, a fragrance dispenser (yes, really), nine airbags, and a full suite of Level 2 ADAS for urban autonomy.

Powertrain and Platform

 The Tesla Model Y Has A New Rival From Toyota That’s Half The Price

Measuring 4,780 mm (188.2 inches) long with a wheelbase of 2,880 mm (113.4 inches), the bZ5 shares similar dimensions with many electric crossovers in China, including the Tesla Model Y. The model is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, which underpins the entire bZ lineup.

But unlike its siblings, the bZ5 comes with BYD’s Blade LFP battery packs, offering options with capacities of 65.28 kWh and 73.98 kWh. According to Toyota, range estimates for the CLTC cycle are 550 km (342 miles) and 630 km (392 miles) respectively. Need a quick boost? A 30-80% charge can be completed in just 27 minutes.

More: Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

Both battery options are combined with the same fully electric powertrain generating 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) of torque.

Affordable, Yet Advanced

The Toyota bZ5 is already available for pre-order in China, with prices starting at 130,000 rmb ($18,000), which is roughly the cost of a Chinese-spec Toyota Corolla Cross. In comparison, the Tesla Model Y starts at 263,500 rmb ($36,500) in the same market, making the bZ5 an attractive (and much more affordable) option for those looking to step into the world of electric crossovers.

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FAW Toyota

Toyota Made An Electric Subaru Outback As Powerful As A Supra

  • Toyota has introduced the 2026 bZ Woodland, which is their version of the Subaru Trailseeker.
  • It’s nearly 6 inches longer than the standard bZ and features an AWD system with 375 hp.
  • The electric crossover comes with an NACS port, but only offers up to 260 miles of range.

Just when you thought Toyota was finally ditching complicated names, it introduces the 2026 bZ Woodland. While it’s natural to assume this is an off-road-inspired trim of the facelifted bZ (formerly the bZ4X), it’s actually a different vehicle, albeit one that shares a lot in common with the original.

That decision probably leaves many scratching their heads, but what matters is that this is essentially Toyota’s version of the Subaru Trailseeker, with both models based on their respective Solterra and bZ cousins. As a result, the bZ Woodlands is part crossover and part wagon, not unlike Subaru’s Outback.

More: Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome New bZ EV

Set to arrive early next year, the bZ Woodland follows in the footsteps of the bZ as it features a hammerhead front end with familiar lighting units. They’re joined by black fenders and plastic body cladding.

QUICK FACTS
Length190.2 in (4,830 mm)
Width73.2 in (1,860 mm)
Height63.8 in (1,620 mm)
Wheelbase112.2 in (2,850 mm)
Luggage Capacity30 cu.ft. (600 liters)
Output375 hp (380 PS / 280kW)
Range260 miles* (348 miles / 560 km WLTP)
Towing Capacity3,500 lbs (1,588 kg)
*North America
SWIPE

While it’s easy to confuse the bZ and bZ Woodland at first glance, the latter model is more wagon- esque as it’s almost 6 inches (152 mm) longer and nearly an inch (25 mm) taller than its counterpart. Furthermore, the bZ Woodland has roof rails and unique 18-inch wheels that can be wrapped in available all-terrain tires. The model also sports 8.3 inches (211 mm) of ground clearance, which is only a hair less than the RAV4.

A Minimalist, But Well-Equipped Cabin

 Toyota Made An Electric Subaru Outback As Powerful As A Supra

The déjà vu design theme continues inside as drivers will find a freestanding digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a bulky steering wheel and more than 30 cubic feet (850 liters) of rear cargo space.

The bZ Woodland will be sold in a single trim that comes equipped with heated SofTex front seats, a dual wireless smartphone charger, and a six-speaker audio system. A Premium package will be available and it adds a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system, a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and a radiant heater.

 Toyota Made An Electric Subaru Outback As Powerful As A Supra

Speaking of equipment, the bZ Woodland comes with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver assistance systems. It includes Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist (Lane Centering), and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. There’s also Road Sign Assist, Proactive Driving Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist. Rounding out the highlights are Safe Exit Alert, a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Panoramic View Monitor with a Multi-Terrain Monitor.

375 HP And 260 Miles Of Range

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The ‘wagonover’ rides on the e-TNGA platform and features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 375 hp (280 kW / 380 PS). Toyota didn’t say much about the powertrain, but noted the model has an X-Mode system and a Grip-Control function. The latter promises to leverage “motor drive power modulation to achieve capable off-road performance.”

More: Toyota’s C-HR Returns For 2026 As An All-Electric Coupe-Crossover

The electric motors are powered by a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which promises to deliver a so-so range of up to 260 miles (418 km). When the battery is low, it can go from a 10-80% charge in around 30 minutes with a DC fast charger. Other notable charging features include a North American Charging System (NACS) port, a pre-conditioning function, and a Plug & Charge capability. Toyota also said the EV will have a 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) towing capacity.

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Global Availability

While US and Canadian pricing will be announced closer to the launch date in early 2026, expect the bZ Woodland to cost more than the less powerful dual-motor bZ4X (Toyota has yet to reveal pricing for the facelifted bZ), which currently ranges from around $41,000 to $46,000. That said, it’s likely to be priced at around $50,000.

The bZ Woodland will also be sold worldwide, including in Japan starting in the second half of next year and in Europe from spring 2026. However, in these markets, it will be sold under a different name: bZ4X Touring.

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Toyota’s C-HR Returns To America But It’s Nothing Like You Remember

  • Toyota is bringing the C-HR nameplate back to the US, this time on an EV.
  • The crossover gets a 338 hp dual-motor setup, goes 0-60 mph in 5 seconds.
  • C-HR shares platform with new BZ (a facelifted bZ4X) but is shorter and lower.

Three years after disappearing from US Toyota dealers, the C-HR is back. But it’s not like you remember it. What was once a puny combustion crossover that struggled to get out its own way is now an all electric fastback that can out-accelerate Toyota’s own affordable performance hero, the GR86.

Toyota’s C-HR announcement wasn’t a complete surprise. The same basic car, but badged C-HR+, made its worldwide premiere in Europe only a few weeks back and we reported at the time that it was expected to be confirmed for sale in the US soon.

More: Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome The And More Powerful bZ

The C-HR rides on the same e-TNGA 2.0 platform as the new BZ, which is what Toyota is calling the facelifted version of the bZ4X. But the C-HR’s 108.2-inch (2,750 mm) wheelbase is 4 inches (102 mm) shorter than the BZ’s and it gets a sportier fastback coupe-style tail instead of the SUV’s squarer, more practical rear end.

One Powertrain, No Choices, But Plenty of Power

Another big difference is in the choice of powertrains and batteries. While BZ buyers get to pick from a menu, C-HR buyers get no choice at all, the only available configuration being a dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup that makes 338 hp (343 PS / 252 kW). It gets the crossover to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5 seconds, or 1.1 seconds faster than a GR86. The 165 hp (167 hp / 123 kW) and 221 (224 PS / 165 kW) single-motor front-wheel drive versions available in Europe aren’t coming to the US.

 Toyota’s C-HR Returns To America But It’s Nothing Like You Remember

Battery options are also limited, the only power pack making it into US-spec cars being a 77 kWh unit that Toyota says is good for around 290 miles (467 km) of driving before you need to find a charger. An 11 kW onboard charger is standard, as is an NACS port, but the 150 kW peak charging speed is nothing to write home about. A 10-80 percent fill takes around 30 minutes.

Inside the C-HR, there’s more commonality with the new BZ, which shares its 14-inch touchscreen media system. You get that screen, heated front seats, power liftgate and two wireless phone chargers on both SE and XSE grades. But going for the XSE upgrades the 18-inch wheels to 20s, adds a memory for the driver’s seat, 8-way power to the passenger’s and brings other goodies like Lane Change Assist and a Panoramic View Monitor.

When Can You Get One?

Although we’re getting our first look at the North American C-HR now, Toyota says it won’t be available until 2026. While pricing will be revealed closer to the on-sale date, it’s expected that the new C-HR will start from around $35,000. This should give it some breathing room compared to the slightly larger bZ, which is expected to kick off in the low $40,000s.

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Toyota May Snap Up This Flailing Chinese EV Brand

  • Neta’s sales have dried up this year after it sold 64,500 vehicles in 2024.
  • The company has stopped production and let go of many of its employees.
  • As of early 2025, it had been valued at around 6 billion yuan or $828 million.

Many have lamented Toyota’s slow transition to battery-electric vehicles, but it’s now investing heavily in them, particularly in the Chinese market. The Japanese automaker’s next step could be to acquire one of China’s many small EV brands that have run into financial troubles: Neta.

Toyota has often been criticized for its slow move into the world of battery-electric vehicles. However, it’s finally starting to invest more heavily in them, with a particular focus on the Chinese market. The next logical step for the Japanese automaker could be to acquire one of China’s many small, struggling EV brands, and specifically, Neta.

Founded in 2014 by Hozon New Energy Auto, Neta has produced some appealing models, including the GT two-door sports car, the S sedan, and the S Hunting Edition, a sleek sports wagon. However, the company has faced significant financial challenges since mid-2024, which led to a production halt and layoffs.

Read: Neta S Hunting Edition Is A China Exclusive Sexy Shooting Brake

An investment deal was reportedly within reach earlier this year. In February, Neta secured an infusion of about $552 million to $621 million in new funding, but the deal was contingent on production resuming, something that never happened, causing the investment to fall through. Now, Toyota appears to be eyeing the opportunity and might look to acquire Neta’s assets.

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According to a report from China’s Kuai Technology, Toyota is considering purchasing Neta. While there are no details yet on how much this acquisition might cost, Neta’s valuation was around 6 billion yuan (about $828 million) earlier this year. That’s pocket change for Toyota, which reported more than $130 billion in cash and equivalents at the end of 2024.

It’s worth noting that Xu Yiming, Toyota’s brand communications director in China, has denied any knowledge of the company’s interest in buying Neta, according to CarNewsChina.

If Toyota does decide to move forward with the acquisition, it would gain not only Neta’s assets and technology but also a better understanding of the competitive Chinese market. In 2024, Neta sold 64,500 vehicles, but by January of this year, it had only sold 110, an indicator of how dire the situation has become.

 Toyota May Snap Up This Flailing Chinese EV Brand
Neta GT

Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome New bZ

  • The 2026 Toyota bZ now offers up to 338 hp, significantly increasing power output.
  • The refreshed EV includes dual wireless charging pads and relocated controls.
  • With a new NACS charging port, the bZ can now access Tesla’s Supercharger network.

After making its debut in Europe, the updated Toyota bZ4x is finally hitting American shores, but not as we remember it. You see, while the European model retains the original name, the North American version will now simply be called the Toyota bZ. And this isn’t just a rebranding, as there are notable upgrades in styling, technology, and performance.

Sharper Looks and Subtle Design Tweaks

Starting with the design, the outgoing bZ4x already had Toyota’s “hammerhead” front end, but the new bZ steps it up with sharper LED headlights and more aggressive bumper intakes. These tweaks are complemented by fresh alloy wheel designs, available in 18- or 20-inch sizes, giving the crossover a more refined and polished appearance.

More: The World’s Biggest Carmaker Just Warned Of A Tremendously Bad Year Ahead

The rest of the exterior remains largely unchanged, but now the fenders are available with a body-color finish, giving a noticeable update to the overall design of the 184.6-inch (4,690 mm) long crossover. That said, body-colored fenders are only offered with the Wind Chill Pearl, Heavy Metal, and Black exterior colors, so your options are somewhat limited.

Tech and Comfort Inside

Inside, the dashboard sees a refresh with a larger 14-inch infotainment touchscreen now standard across the range, paired with dual wireless chargers and customizable 64-color ambient lighting. Toyota has also introduced paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, giving drivers the ability to adjust the level of regenerative braking.

 Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome New bZ
The 2026 Toyota bZ compared to its 2025 Toyota bZ4x predecessor.
 Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome New bZ

More Power And Range

While the exterior and interior changes are relatively mild, the real action is happening under the hood. The bZ still rides on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, but engineers have made significant improvements to both the powertrain and battery options.

More: America’s 2026 Corolla Cross Looks Sharper But It’s Missing Something

The dual electric motors in the AWD version deliver a combined 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), while the single motor in the FWD version produces 221 hp (165 kW / 224 PS). By comparison, the outgoing bZ4x offered 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) in the AWD version and 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) in the FWD. Like its predecessor, the AWD Toyota bZ comes equipped with the X-Mode function, enhancing grip on slippery surfaces.

More importantly, the Toyota bZ offers a 25% increase in driving range over the bZ4x, with an estimated 314 miles (505 km) between charges. This boost is thanks to a slightly larger 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, available with both FWD and AWD powertrains. There will also be a base FWD model featuring a smaller 57.7 kWh battery pack, offering a still-impressive 236 miles (380 km) of range.

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Like its recently updated Subaru Solterra twin, the 2026 Toyota bZ is compatible with the North American Charging System (NACS), giving drivers access to the Tesla Supercharger network. Toyota claims the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes when plugged into a fast DC charger, and it also features a new battery preconditioning function for more efficient charging.

Availability

The 2026 Toyota bZ is expected to land in U.S. dealerships in the second half of the year. The lineup will feature the XLE and Limited trims in both FWD and AWD configurations, with two battery options available. Pricing will be revealed closer to the release date.

Currently, the Toyota bZ remains the company’s sole EV offering in North America, standing alone among a sea of gas, hybrid, and PHEV models. But that won’t last long. Toyota plans to unveil its own version of the Subaru Trailseeker in the near future, expanding its EV lineup with a larger and more spacious crossover/SUV.

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Toyota USA

Akio Toyoda Says EVs Are Dirtier Than You Think

  • Chairman Akio Toyoda emphasizes that carbon neutrality remains Toyota’s top priority.
  • He claims 27 million Toyota hybrids match the carbon impact of 9 million electric cars.
  • Toyoda argues EVs raise emissions when powered by fossil-fueled electricity, especially in Japan.

Electric vehicles may dominate headlines and political agendas, but the road to a cleaner future isn’t a one-way street. At least, not according to Toyota, the world’s best-selling brand and long-time champion of hybrid technology. While other automakers sprint toward full electrification, Toyota is still holding its ground, cautiously expanding its EV lineup while doubling down on hybrids.

More: Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S

Despite recent moves in China with the broader bZ series, Toyota has taken plenty of flak for its relatively slow EV rollout. But if you ask Chairman Akio Toyoda, there’s a method to what critics call hesitation. Known for his firm stance on a multi-energy strategy, Toyoda once again explained why Toyota hasn’t followed the all-electric herd.

In an recent interview with Automotive News, Toyoda said, “When the term carbon neutrality became popular, we said as a company the enemy is carbon. We have to focus on what we can do immediately to reduce carbon dioxide. That is the basis of our decision. It has not changed and will not change.”

Why Hybrids Still Matter

Toyoda also pointed to Toyota’s history with hybrid vehicles. “We have sold some 27 million hybrids,” he said. “Those hybrids have had the same impact as 9 million BEVs on the road. But if we were to have made 9 million BEVs in Japan, it would have actually increased the carbon emissions, not reduced them. That is because Japan relies on the thermal power plants for electricity.”

While the Toyota chairman didn’t break down the math behind those figures, he clearly wanted to show that EVs aren’t a silver bullet. Sure, battery electric vehicles offer zero tailpipe emissions, but that’s only part of the equation. The environmental impact of producing EVs and generating the electricity to charge them tells a more complicated story. Add to that the patchy state of charging infrastructure in many regions, and it becomes easier to understand why hybrids still make sense, at least for now.

 Akio Toyoda Says EVs Are Dirtier Than You Think
The recently facelifted bZ4x is one of the three electric models in Toyota’s European lineup.

Toyota’s deep roots in hybrid development go back to the original Prius in 1997. Since then, hybrids have grown to become a major part of the company’s global sales. Today, hybrid variants are offered across nearly every Toyota model line. Demand is particularly strong in markets like Europe and North America, where self-charging hybrids are often seen as a practical, lower-commitment step toward electrification.

More: Toyota Throws Gasoline On ICE vs EV Debate, Why Go All Electric When We Can Do Both?

And while EVs continue to grab market share, there’s a sizable segment of buyers who remain unconvinced, whether that be due to cost, range anxiety, or lack of infrastructure. Toyota seems content to serve that middle ground.

A Broader Strategy, Not a U-Turn

Toyoda’s multi-pathway approach includes more than just hybrids. He’s also supporting plug-in hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, battery EVs, and even combustion engines powered by synthetic fuels. For Toyota, it’s less about betting on a single winner and more about keeping all options open.

“We should look at all options and work in all directions,” Toyoda said. “As a company, we have been very consistent in saying what we’re fighting against is carbon dioxide.”

This isn’t new rhetoric from Toyoda. Last year, he made headlines for suggesting that even in the long term, fully electric vehicles will only make up 30 percent of global sales. He also warned that a sudden shift to an EV-only future could put 5.5 million Japanese jobs at risk.

 Akio Toyoda Says EVs Are Dirtier Than You Think
The Toyota bZ7 is a new flagship electric sedan for China.

Toyoda Shuts Down EV Sports Cars, Prefers Smells And Sounds Of Gas Anyway

  • Akio Toyoda suggested that the future GR lineup will likely exclude electric sports cars.
  • The chairman and master driver favors the sound and smell of gasoline engines over EVs.
  • An electric GR model could arrive only if Toyota is able to offer it at an affordable price.

Toyota GR is on track to offer one of the most exciting sports car lineups among mainstream automakers, but it looks like none of them will be fully electric. Chairman Akio Toyoda made it clear that his definition of a sports car is “something with the smell of gasoline and a noisy engine,” which means electric powertrains are off the table for Gazoo Racing, at least for the near future.

Toyoda,  grandson of Toyota Motor Corp. founder Kiichiro Toyoda, who has earned the unofficial title of “master driver”, holds the final say on what makes a Lexus a Lexus and a Toyota a Toyota. Under his leadership, the Japanese automaker has undergone a transformation, becoming a brand that genuinely cares about driving enthusiasts.

More: Toyota GR Will Keep Gas Engines And Manuals Alive For A “Long, Long Time”

He’s brought Toyota back to the top of motorsports while sprinkling some rally-car magic into production models like the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. With the upcoming debuts of an MR2 successor, a revived Celica, and a GR-branded supercar, Toyoda recently shared his thoughts on the future of performance EVs.

No Electric Dreams, For Now

In an interview with Auto News, Toyoda was asked whether he could imagine a future where Toyota builds an electric sports car or race car. His response was as classic as you’d expect: “There will always be people inside Toyota passionate about developing electric sports cars. But for me as the master driver, my definition of a sports car is something with the smell of gasoline and a noisy engine.”

 Toyoda Shuts Down EV Sports Cars, Prefers Smells And Sounds Of Gas Anyway
2023 Toyota FT-Se Concept

These comments pretty much crush any hopes of seeing a production version of the electricToyota FT-Se concept from 2023, which many thought might preview a new generation of the discontinued MR2. Toyota has been keeping the MR2 revival rumors alive with a mid-engined GR Yaris prototype, but instead of an electric powertrain, it’s packing the upcoming turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

An Electric Sports Car Needs to Be Affordable

Despite his preference for gas-engines, Toyoda hasn’t completely closed the door on EVs. He conceded that if the right conditions come together, an electric sports car could eventually make sense. But there’s a catch: it has to be affordable. “Toyota is a mass-production brand, so we also need to think about affordability, even with BEVs,” he explained. “Once Toyota has the capacity to offer affordable BEVs, then maybe that’s a moment when I, as a master driver, will be introducing a BEV sports car.”

More: Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S

The master driver isn’t exactly sold on electric race cars, at least not yet. He pointed out that racing EVs are “not exciting,” mainly because they can’t even make it around the circuit for more than an hour. “The kind of races I enter are mostly endurance races, so with current BEVs, it’s not going to be a race of the cars. It’s a race of charging time or battery exchanges or something,” he told Auto News.

For these reasons, he’s handed off the task of developing EV race cars to the next master driver, saying it will be “their job” to tackle.

Speaking of a potential successor, Toyoda did admit that his son, Daisuke, is the better driver. Still, Akio believes he has the upper hand when it comes to the “seasoning” of production models. After honing his driving skills under chief test driver Naruse at the ripe age of 40, Toyoda says he’s eager to see what his son, who started much younger, will bring to the table. “I look forward to seeing what will happen with someone who started young like Daisuke,” he said.

 Toyoda Shuts Down EV Sports Cars, Prefers Smells And Sounds Of Gas Anyway
Toyota GR Yaris

Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S

  • The fully electric Toyota bZ7 had its world premiere at the Shanghai Auto Show.
  • This large sedan is the new flagship model of Toyota’s BEV lineup in China.
  • Co-developed with GAC, the bZ7 is not expected to be offered outside China.

Toyota has just unveiled its latest flagship electric vehicle, the bZ7, at the Shanghai Auto Show. Set to launch in China next year, this model aims to take on the large electric sedan market. Developed in partnership with local partner GAC, the bZ7 is being pitched as a fusion of “Toyota’s safe, reliable, and high-quality manufacturing” and “China’s advanced technology”.

More: New Lexus ES Drops The Grille And Embraces Electrification

This “fusion” of East meets West is becoming a bit of a trend lately, as we saw with Audi’s collaboration with SAIC on their new electric ‘AUDI’ brand. Looks like everyone’s jumping on the bandwagon of international partnerships to create the next (…lower cost) big thing in EVs.

Design and Dimensions

The bZ7 features a sleek, aerodynamic body with a roofline that slopes just enough to be called sporty but not so much that it starts resembling a hatchback. The side profile and greenhouse are very similar to the Toyota Crown Crossover, though the bZ7’s design distinguishes itself with sharper LED lighting and a more refined surface finish. It’s definitely got the look of a car that wants to be seen.

With a length of over 5 meters (196.8 inches), the bZ7 is in the same (dimension) league as the Tesla Model S, Mercedes EQE, and BMW i5, so expect it to have a decent presence on the road. Toyota is positioning this model as the “flagship” of its electric lineup in China, so it’s clearly aiming high.

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Toyota

Tech Features and Interior

Inside, Toyota has gone all-in on tech. The electric sedan features a massive infotainment screen running on Huawei’s Harmony OS. The digital instrument cluster is minimalistic, and the wood accents paired with ambient lighting give off a premium vibe without trying too hard. The center console offers some old-school tactile buttons and includes wireless charging pads for good measure.

More: Toyota bZ4X Gets New Batteries, More Power, And Better Range

Toyota also promises that the bZ7 will come with “the latest intelligent technology.” That’s a lot of marketing buzzwords to digest, but with the launch slated for China in 2026, we’ll see soon enough what that actually means. Like many electric models developed specifically for China, it’s unlikely we’ll see the bZ7 elsewhere, but who knows? Stranger things have happened.

Other Models in the Lineup

Alongside the bZ7, Toyota also unveiled the bZ5, which is essentially a renamed version of the bZ3C fastback crossover. It joins the already existing pre-facelifted bZ4X crossover, the bZ3X SUV, and the bZ3 sedan, all of which are part of Toyota’s growing electric vehicle family in China. Looks like Toyota is all-in on electrification for the Chinese market, but don’t expect to see this lineup on U.S. soil anytime soon.

 Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S
The Toyota bZ lineup in China

Subaru Trailseeker EV Is Faster Than A WRX STI But No One Knows If It’s A Wagon Or SUV

  • Subaru’s Trailseeker EV has made its world debut at the New York Auto Show.
  • The 375-hp SUV shares its design and powertrain with the smaller Solterra.
  • Two motors provide AWD traction and an electric range of more than 260 miles.

Subaru’s smaller lineup means it doesn’t have as many debuts in a year as rival automakers, but today the Japanese automaker hit us with three big ones, including the facelifted Solterra and its new big brother, the Trailseeker, with the Outback to follow.

Unveiled at the New York Auto Show, the Trailseeker is like a Solterra for people who want more space and more power. And like the smaller SUV, the Trailseeker has a Toyota twin, though one we’re yet to see.

Related: 2026 Subaru Solterra Gains A Redesigned Face, Alongside More Power And Range

Subaru’s supplied media images, which look badly Photoshopped at best and an AI nightmare at worst, show the Trailseeker looking more like a wagon than an SUV, but it features the same angular design language as the Solterra. The scant spec details reveal the Trailseeker is around an inch (25 mm) taller and six inches longer (150 mm) than the smaller Solterra.

Fastest Accelerating Production Subaru Ever

Where the new Solterra tops out at 338 hp (343 PS / 252 kW), the Trailseeker’s dual-motor setup delivers approximately 375 hp (380 PS / 280 kW). According to Subaru, that’s enough to launch it from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in around 4.4 seconds. For anyone keeping score, that’s more than a full second quicker than both the previous WRX STI and the current WRX TR, which takes 5.6 seconds to hit the same mark. In other words, it’s the fastest accelerating Subaru this side of the pond.

A 74.7 kWh battery slung under the floor (but still allowing the same 8.3 inches/211 mm of ground clearance as the Solterra) delivers “more than” 260 miles (418 km) of range on a single charge, which is dealt with by a NACS port. 

 Subaru Trailseeker EV Is Faster Than A WRX STI But No One Knows If It’s A Wagon Or SUV

A 3,500 lbs (1,590 kg) towing capacity is claimed, and the X-Mode drive mode system includes Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings, plus Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control to keep you out of trouble.

The Trailseeker’s cabin, like its exterior design, borrows heavily from the Solterra and features a 14-inch touchscreen display, the largest ever fitted to a Subaru. Two wireless smartphone charging pads are standard.

As you might have gathered, Subaru has left a lot of gaping holes in its spec sheet, including charging speeds, approach and departure angles, and prices. But no doubt we’ll be able to fill in some of those gaps in the coming weeks and months, by which time we might have a look at Toyota’s own version of the Trailseeker.

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Toyota And Lexus Will Launch 15 EVs By 2027 And That’s Just The Start

  • Toyota plans to increase EV production to 1 million units by 2027 globally.
  • EV manufacturing will expand to the US, Thailand, and Argentina by late 2025.
  • Three-row electric SUVs are coming from Toyota’s Kentucky and Indiana plants.

Toyota helped kick off the electrified era long before it was cool, way back in the late ‘90s with the launch of the Prius. That car didn’t just spark curiosity, it redefined what people expected from hybrids and made Toyota a poster child for practical electrification.

Read: Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

But in recent years, as other automakers raced ahead with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Toyota found itself lagging behind, seemingly reluctant to join the full-EV sprint. Now, it’s shifting gears and planning a major EV expansion as it works to close the gap with its faster-moving rivals.

EV Production Plans Are Going Global

By 2027, Toyota reportedly wants to have as many as 15 electric models on sale, including those under the Lexus badge. It also aims to ramp up EV production to about 1 million units per year by that point. For context, that would be roughly seven times the number of EVs it built in 2024, a massive jump, if it can pull it off.

Toyota currently only builds EVs in Japan and China, but Nikkei Asia reports that as more of the upcoming EVs launch in the market, production will expand to the US, Thailand, and Argentina. One of the first to hit the market will be an electric version of the Hilux, set to be built in Thailand from October. This model will also be assembled in Argentina.

 Toyota And Lexus Will Launch 15 EVs By 2027 And That’s Just The Start
Toyota has been teasing a new range of EVs since 2021.

Toyota Is Facing Increased Competition

Toyota’s urgency makes sense, as it’s facing steep competition from automakers that have already hit their EV stride. Tesla and BYD each moved 1.76 million EVs last year. Volkswagen wasn’t far behind, selling 740,000 EVs globally. Compared to those numbers, Toyota’s electric efforts have been pretty modest so far.

A key piece of Toyota’s upcoming EV puzzle is the new C-HR+ EV, which was revealed about a month ago. This model sits below the larger bZ4X in the Toyota family and will be offered with 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh battery packs. Production of it will start at Toyota’s Takaoka plant in Japan this September, and in addition to being sold throughout Europe, it will be available in the USA and Canada from next year.

More: Toyota And Lexus Unveil 15 New Electric Concepts All At Once

Elsewhere, Toyota is planning to build a three-row EV at its Kentucky and Indiana plants from next year, serving as a rival to the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Toyota is also continuing its EV partnership with Subaru, and the next result of that collaboration is scheduled to go into production in Japan in February.

 Toyota And Lexus Will Launch 15 EVs By 2027 And That’s Just The Start

Toyota Delays Japanese Battery Plant After Slashing EV Sales Targets

  • Toyota delays its Japanese battery plant due to slower-than-expected EV demand growth.
  • The Fukuoka battery plant delay might impact its expected operational start date in 2028.
  • The next generation of Toyota EVs could offer driving ranges up to 620 miles (1,000 km).

Toyota is hitting the brakes—slightly—on one of its major EV infrastructure projects in Japan. While the company still plans to move forward with a new battery plant, construction won’t begin as soon as originally expected. The pause comes as Toyota adjusts its EV strategy.

The plant is slated for Japan’s Fukuoka prefecture, and according to local Governor Seitaro Hattori, an agreement on the exact location was supposed to be finalized in April. That timeline has now slipped to sometime in the fall. The facility had been scheduled to start operations in 2028, but the delay could push that date back as well.

Read: Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

Toyota is still committed to building the facility, Nikkei Asia reports, but the company is now reevaluating what will actually be produced there. Initially, the plant was intended to manufacture batteries for Toyota’s next generation of electric vehicles, some of which are targeting a range of up to 620 miles (1,000 kilometers).

The shift reflects a broader recalibration of Toyota’s EV ambitions. While global electric car sales are still climbing, they’re not accelerating as fast as some carmakers once projected. That mismatch between forecasts and reality is now prompting the company to rethink its targets.

 Toyota Delays Japanese Battery Plant After Slashing EV Sales Targets
Toyota and Mazda’s US plant

Back in 2022, Toyota announced it aimed to sell 1.5 million EVs annually by 2026. That number was cut to 1 million in 2023, and most recently trimmed again to just 800,000 units. The company hasn’t abandoned EVs by any stretch, it’s simply adjusting expectations in a market that’s proving to be more complex and less predictable than initially suggested.

Earlier this month, Toyota established a new Chinese subsidiary for Lexus that will develop and build EVs and batteries at a plant in China. The plant will be located in Shanghai and will manufacture several models exclusively for the Chinese market.  

 Toyota Delays Japanese Battery Plant After Slashing EV Sales Targets

Toyota bZ86 Coupe Study Imagines An Electric GR86

  • Independent artist Theottle imagined a fully electric Toyota bZ86 sports car study.
  • The concept uses GR86 proportions while integrating Toyota’s EV styling language.
  • It has been imagined with a 338-hp dual-motor setup, offering over 326 miles of range.

There’s no shortage of chatter about the expanding future of Toyota’s GR lineup, which is expected to include an array of high-performance sports cars ranging from a new Celica and MR2 to the next Supra and even a GR supercar. While many of these machines will be powered by traditional gasoline engines and hybrids, an independent digital artist has introduced a completely electric twist to the mix.

Enter the Toyota bZ86, a fictional creation by digital artist Theophilus Chin. The idea behind the this coupe study is to retain the sporty proportions of Toyota’s current GR86, but with an entirely new, electrified twist.

More: These Are All The Future Sports Cars Coming From Toyota GR

Despite borrowing the GR86’s general shape, the bZ86 adopts a completely different design language. In keeping with its electric nature, Chin took inspiration from the recently revealed Toyota CH-R+ crossover and the facelifted bZ4x, resulting in a sleek, futuristic look.

At the front, the electric sports car features a hammerhead-like nose, flanked by sharp headlights and wide bumper intakes. The side profile is aggressively sculpted, with a bi-tone finish on the roofline and side skirts adding a touch of flair. And, of course, the oversized charging port on the front fenders leaves no doubt—this coupe needs to be plugged-in.

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Illustrations: Theottle

A Familiar Rear with a Fresh Twist

The rear of the bZ86 borrows heavily from the CH-R+ crossover, with its full-width LED taillights and sloping rear glass. While the plastic cladding on the rear bumper may not be to everyone’s taste, it’s balanced out by the addition of a sporty diffuser. That said, the placement of the license plate holder could use a little more subtlety.

More: Mazda Inline-Six Rumor For New GR Supra And RX-7 Sounds Too Wild To Be True

Since this is purely a digital concept, there are no hard specs to go on. However, the dual-motor setup from the C-HR+, which puts out a combined 338 horsepower (252 kW / 343 PS), could easily serve as the basis for an electric equivalent of the GR86. Pair that with the crossover’s 77 kWh battery pack, and you could expect a range north of 326 miles (525 km) in a more aerodynamic coupe form.

Despite the cool factor of the project, Toyota Gazoo Racing has no plans of introducing an electric sportscar – at least in the near future. The truth is that most buyers will be better off with the upcoming gas-guzzling Celica, MR2, GR86, and GR Supra, temporarily leaving the concept of electric mobility to the hands of family-focused SUVs.

While the bZ86 is an undeniably cool proposal, Toyota Gazoo Racing has no plans to bring an electric sports car to life—at least not anytime in the near future. For now, most enthusiasts will have to do with gasoline-powered options, such as the upcoming Celica, MR2, GR86, and GR Supra, leaving the world of electric mobility to Toyota’s family-friendly SUVs.

Subaru And Toyota Electric Compact SUV Twins Coming In 2026

  • Toyota and Subaru are working on a pair of EVs, to be sold in Japan, Europe, and the US.
  • The zero-emission SUV twins are expected to compete in the compact SUV segment.
  • Subaru will reportedly undertake production of the EVs in Japan, starting January 2026.

The Toyota bZ4x has just received a mid-cycle update, and it looks like its Subaru twin, the Solterra, may soon follow suit. But these two crossovers won’t be the only EVs born from the Toyota-Subaru partnership. In 2026, the automakers are reportedly planning to expand their lineup with a pair of new compact SUVs.

More: Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

In an effort to keep research and development costs manageable, these new compact SUVs are expected to share key components with the e-TNGA platform already used by the bZ4x and Solterra. This includes components like battery packs and electric motors. This collaboration allows both Toyota and Subaru to cut costs and allocate more resources to other projects.

New EV Models Teased by Toyota

Earlier this week, Toyota teased three new EVs that will launch by 2026. These will join the ranks of the bZ4x, C-HR+, and Urban Cruiser in Toyota’s lineup. Two of the teased vehicles seem to be production versions of the EPU pickup and the Land Cruiser SE, both of which were shown as concepts in 2023. This has led to speculation that the third teaser might be the compact SUV that Toyota and Subaru are working on together.

If this is indeed the case, the new EVs are expected to adopt a more traditional SUV shape compared to the bZ4x and Solterra crossovers. The design hints at a profile similar to the upcoming Toyota RAV4, with a sharp nose, roof rails, and a more upright rear end. While the Toyota and Subaru versions will likely share much of their exterior and interior design, each will probably feature a distinctive front end to help buyers tell them apart.

 Subaru And Toyota Electric Compact SUV Twins Coming In 2026
A teaser of the three new Toyota EVs that will debut by 2026.
 Subaru And Toyota Electric Compact SUV Twins Coming In 2026
This silhouette could belong to the upcoming Toyota and Subaru electric SUV twins.

Expanding the EV Market in Key Regions

According to Best Car, these new compact SUVs will be available in Japan, Europe, and the U.S., broadening both Toyota and Subaru’s zero-emission offerings in the compact SUV segment. Unlike the bZ4x and Solterra, which are currently produced at Toyota’s Motomachi Plant, the new jointly-developed models will reportedly be built at Subaru’s Yajima plant in Japan, with production set to start in January 2026.

While Toyota already offers three EVs (bZ4x, CH-R+, and Urban Cruiser) in Europe, the Solterra remains the sole zero-emission offering in Subaru’s global lineup. That will soon change, with this new SUV being one of four electric models Subaru plans to launch in collaboration with Toyota.

Subaru’s Own EV Ambitions

In addition to the jointly-developed vehicles, Subaru has its sights set on launching its first in-house-developed electric vehicle by 2028. These launches are part of a broader effort to have battery-electric vehicles account for half of Subaru’s global sales by 2030, a goal that will likely require a mix of joint and solo ventures, with both Toyota and Subaru continuing to expand their electric offerings over the next several years.

 Subaru And Toyota Electric Compact SUV Twins Coming In 2026
The facelifted Toyota bZ4x (above) and the current Subaru Solterra (below).
 Subaru And Toyota Electric Compact SUV Twins Coming In 2026

Toyota Says Electric Yaris Is Coming, But It’s Not Ready Yet

  • Toyota is focusing on larger segments before introducing an electric Yaris.
  • Its EU marketing boss said that a Yaris EV will arrive “at the right moment”.
  • The company offers a small EV in Europe in the form of the Urban Cruiser.

Toyota is slowly but surely making its move into the electric vehicle market after years of focusing more on hybrids. A Yaris sub-compact will eventually join the EV lineup, but don’t expect it to be part of Toyota’s immediate plans, as larger EVs are taking priority right now.

Read: Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

Andrea Carlucci, the Director of Marketing and Product Development at Toyota Motor Europe, shed some light on the company’s upcoming EV strategy. In an interview with Autocar, Carlucci was asked about the potential for an electric Yaris. “This is the idea, but right now, it’s not something we talk about…” he told the magazine. “The right moment will come, but it’s not quite now.”

Bigger Is Better, for Now

The executive clarified that Toyota’s approach is to launch EVs in the “fastest-growing segments,” such as compact, midsize, and executive vehicles, categories that are seen as having more sales potential than subcompact models like the Yaris. Carlucci added, “For us, it is all about the right car, the right place at the right time, it really is. And at the moment, the expansion you’re seeing are the right segments for Europe for us right now.”

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Toyota’s current EV lineup in Europe includes the recently facelifted bZ4X, the new C-HR+, and the Urban Cruiser. The latter shares its platform with the Suzuki e-Vitara and has a similar size to the Toyota Yaris Cross, suggesting that Toyota’s push into the subcompact SUV market has given them the breathing room to delay the Yaris EV, keeping R&D costs in check.

Future Toyota EVs: Familiar Names, Familiar Faces

Carlucci also revealed that future Toyota EVs will carry “familiar names from current cars,” meaning the electric Yaris will likely stick with the Yaris badge. Given the Yaris’ history, it’s expected that the EV version will make its debut toward the end of the decade. Before that, Toyota plans to introduce an electric pickup and two electric SUVs by 2026. Also on the horizon is the production version of the FT-Me heavy quadricycle, which is designed to compete with the Citroen Ami.

More: Toyota FT-Me Concept Previews Sub-2.5-Meters Urban EV

The Toyota Yaris has proven to be quite popular since the arrival of the first-generation model in 1999. The fourth-generation model was introduced in 2019, receiving a mild facelift in 2024. In Europe and the UK, the Yaris is now exclusively offered with a self-charging hybrid powertrain, although the gasoline variant is still available in Japan.

Besides the Yaris and the Yaris Cross, the family also includes the rally-bred GR Yaris hot hatch, although it rides on a bespoke chassis with elements from the bigger Corolla. According to the latest reports, Toyota could add a dose of electrification in the successor of the GR Yaris in the form of a self-charging hybrid setup.

 Toyota Says Electric Yaris Is Coming, But It’s Not Ready Yet
Toyota Yaris and Yaris Cross (Japanese-spec)

Toyota Working On Mystery Electric Pickup

  • Toyota’s electric pickup teaser hints at a new model distinct from the upcoming Hilux EV.
  • The double-cab design suggests a departure from previous single-cab electric prototypes.
  • Speculation suggests it could be a production version of the 2023 EPU Concept model.

Electric pickup trucks are becoming an increasingly common sight as a growing number of eco-conscious buyers look to combine practicality and ruggedness with zero emissions. Toyota is now teasing an all-electric pickup of its own, though this new model appears unrelated to the electric Hilux currently in development for Thailand and Australia.

A single teaser image showing the truck’s silhouette was shown at Toyota’s event in Belgium last night, where the company also unveiled the new bZ4X, C-HR+, and 2026 Lexus RZ. The mystery pickup was teased alongside two other upcoming Toyota models—one of which may be the electric three-row SUV that has reportedly been pushed back to 2026.

Read: Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

As noted by InsideEVs, the pickup shown in this teaser has a double-cab design, unlike the single-cab electric Hilux previewed in Thailand this time last year. It also doesn’t look like the double-cab Hilux prototype Toyota is testing alongside mining giant BHP in Australia.

One possibility is that the new electric pickup being developed by Toyota could be a production-ready Tacoma EV, inspired by a concept shown to the world in late 2021. But, given that the Tacoma nameplate isn’t used on European soil, it may indicate at a production version of the EPU Concept from 2023, a compact electric pickup that’s apparently due to hit the market in 2027 in key markets like South America.

 Toyota Working On Mystery Electric Pickup

Given that we don’t know exactly what we’re looking at, technical details about a potential new electric truck from Toyota remain a mystery. It would conceivably be based on one of the brand’s existing platforms and likely be offered with the same improved electric motors as found in the updated bZ4X and the new C-HR+.

While speaking about the three unidentified future models, Toyota Motor Europe president and chief executive Yoshihiro Nakata said, “these three parts [of the EV strategy] will focus on enhancing the customer’s lifestyle just as powerfully as they enhance our carbon neutrality goals.”

 Toyota Working On Mystery Electric Pickup

Toyota FT-Me Concept Previews Sub-2.5-Meters Urban EV

  • Toyota has introduced an electric microcar concept that could reach production soon.
  • The FT-Me could evolve into a Citroen Ami rival designed for urban use.
  • The concept has solar panels that add up to 30 km (19 miles) of range on sunny days.

Toyota has launched the FT-Me Concept, communicating its intention of entering the micromobility segment. The urban EV is expected to evolve into a production model, competing against the likes of the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, and Mobilize Duo heavy quadricycles.

According to Toyota, the FT-Me concept combines “premium design with affordability”. The exterior design is inspired by a jet helmet, featuring pronounced fenders, tiny overhangs, and high-mounted LEDs. Thanks to the use of recycled materials, the automaker targets a 90% reduction in carbon footprint compared to today’s urban vehicles.

More: Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

With a length of under 2.5 m (98.4 inches), the FT-Me is over 1,2 m (47.2 inches) smaller than the Toyota Aygo X. In other words, it occupies half of a standard parking space, or one third when perpendicular parking is available. The small footprint, high maneuverability, and “360-degree visibility” of the FT-Me make it ideal for urban use.

The cabin has a two-seater layout, although the passenger seat can be removed for carrying larger items. The rectangular steering wheel is designed with wheelchair users in mind and allows the vehicle to be “driven solely by hand commands” without the need of pedals. The dashboard has a small screen serving as a digital instrument cluster with advanced connectivity features.

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Toyota

Solar Charging Can Cover Your Daily Needs

The lightweight FT-Me consumes three times less energy per km compared to a typical EV with a high-capacity battery. The range is estimated at around 100 km (62 miles) between charges, although it could be extended by 20-30 km (12-19 miles) thanks to the roof-mounted solar panels.

Toyota claims that the extra range from the sun covers the expected daily usage of the urban EV, removing the need to plug it into a charger, although this largely depends on weather conditions and how one drives the car.

More: 2025 Citroen Ami Gets Funkier With Bulging Eyes And 2CV-Style Gills

While we don’t have the specifications of the electric powertrain, we can make some assumptions based on the regulations of the L6e segment. These require a limited top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph) and would allow the smallest Toyota to be driven by 14-year-olds in certain markets.

Will It Reach The Market?

The FT-Me might be presented as a concept, but there is a clear intention of evolving it for production. As reported by Quattroruote, Stijn Peeters, head of Toyota’s New Mobility division, said that “There is a market for a vehicle like this. And Toyota is able to produce it on a large scale at low costs.”

A heavy quadricycle by Toyota could reach the market sometime over the next few years, with a price tag of under €10,000 ($10,900). The model could be joined by other micromobility solutions, similar to the ones created for the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

  • European versions of the C-HR+ will be offered with 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh battery packs.
  • The design of the new electric SUV bears a resemblance to the existing C-HR.
  • A dual-motor version of the Toyota C-HR+ delivers an impressive 338 hp.

Toyota has added a new EV to its range, and it’s one that no one really saw coming. Dubbed the C-HR+, it’s similar in name to the existing C-HR sold in international markets, but it is bigger and is expected to be sold in the United States next year. So far, it’s only been announced in European specification and slots below the larger bZ4X in the Toyota family.

Despite what the name of the C-HR+ might have you believe, it is not based on the gas-powered C-HR, and, instead, has the same e-TNGA 2.0 platform as the bZ4X. Unlike that model that’s often panned for its weird looks, the C-HR+ is much sleeker and more refined. Whether or not that helps it sell better than the bZ4X remains to be seen, but it’s a good start.

Read: 2025 Toyota bZ4X Gets $6,000 Price Cut, New Nightshade Edition

The new Toyota C-HR+ sits on a 108.2-inch (2,750 mm) wheelbase, exactly four inches shorter than the wheelbase of the bZ4X. The brand says the C-HR+ is more catered towards singles and couples, whereas the bZ4X is a family car. As developing and building new EVs from scratch is very costly, Toyota is using similar powertrain options to the bZ4X.

 Toyota’s New C-HR+ EV May Launch In The US Next Year

Base models in Europe will feature a 57.7 kWh battery pack and a single electric motor driving the front wheels, delivering 165 hp (123 kW). Toyota says this model will be good for 283 miles (455 km) of range on the WLTP cycle and can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in a respectable 8.6 seconds. A more powerful FWD version with a 77 kWh pack has also been announced, kicking out 221 hp (165 kW) and boasting 373 miles (600 km) of range while dropping its 0-62 mph sprint time to 7.4 seconds.

Sitting at the top of the C-HR+ family will be a twin-motor, all-wheel drive model with 338 hp (252 kW), a 77 kWh battery pack, and a 0-62 mph time of 5.2 seconds. This model has a claimed range of 326 miles (525 km).

The Electric Toyota Americans Have Been Waiting For?

Toyota has not confirmed if the C-HR+ will be sold in the US, and in a statement issued to Carscoops, simply said, “We have no U.S. product announcements at this time.” However, offering the C-HR+ locally will help the brand meet the Advanced Clean Car II sales regulations in six states that’ll go into effect for the 2026MY.

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Toyota’s Cheapest EV Ever Costs $15,000, Gets 10,000 Orders In 60 Minutes

  • The electric SUV is a little larger than a BYD Atto 3 and offered with three different battery packs.
  • Entry-level and mid-range models have a motor with 204 hp, while the flagship delivers 224 hp.
  • Toyota sells two models equipped with an advanced driver-assistance system powered by Nvidia.

China is quickly establishing itself as the global epicenter for affordable electric vehicles, and for good reason. However, most of the budget-friendly EVs have come from homegrown brands that have been able to work around the traditional constraints that have slowed down legacy automakers.

But now, even Toyota, a legacy company that’s been criticized for its sluggishness in adopting electric vehicles, is jumping into the fray with a shockingly low starting price in the Chinese market, especially considering its size and features.

See: Everything We Know About The 2026 Toyota RAV4

The vehicle in question is the bZ3X and it’s been brought to life thanks to Toyota’s joint venture with GAC. It was first presented in December, but sales of it only just started. It’s proven to be so popular that more than 10,000 orders were placed for it within an hour, causing the system to crash. Looking at what shoppers will be getting for their money, it’s easy to understand why the bZ3X is so red hot.

Pricing Details

Prices for the electric SUV start at 109,800 yuan, or roughly $15,000 at current exchange rates. Considering the compact SUV’s size and features, that’s an incredibly competitive price. For context, the GAC Toyota Highlander, similar to the one sold in North America, starts at 284,800 yuan ($39,300), while the Camry starts at 171,800 yuan ($23,700).

At that price, you’re getting the base version of the bZ3X, called the 430 Air. It comes with a 50.03 kWh LFP battery pack. While that’s on the smaller side for an SUV of this size, Toyota claims it’s good for 267 miles (430 km) of range on the CTLC cycle. However, since China’s testing cycle tends to be extremely generous, the real-world range will likely be closer to 250 miles (402 km). If you’re looking for a bit more equipment, there’s also a slightly upgraded 430 Air+ version available, starting at 119,800 yuan (~$16,500).

Toyota will also offer the bZ3X in 520 Pro (¥120,980 / ~$16,700) and 520 Pro+ (¥139,800 / ~$19,300) guises, both of which use a larger 58.37 kWh battery and have a quoted range of 323 miles (520 km). All 430 and 520 models feature a single 204 hp electric motor. The version offering the most range is the 610 Max, rocking a 67.92 kWh pack and good for 379 miles (610 km) on a charge. It also has a more powerful 224 hp motor. It starts at ¥159,800 (~$22,000)

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Two versions of the 520 Pro offering advanced driver-assistance systems have also been announced, priced at ¥149,800 (~$20,700) and ¥159,800 (~$22,000), respectively. These models include 11 cameras, 12 ultrasonic radars, 3mm wave radars, and one LiDAR, all powered by the Nvidia Drive AGX Orin X.

The cabin of the bZ3X certainly isn’t super-luxurious as far as Chinese-built EVs go, but it does look decent. It features a 14.6-inch infotainment display, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 11-speaker Yamaha audio system, all fitted as standard.

The SUV itself measures 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) in length, 1,875 mm (73.8 inches) in width, and 1,645 mm (64.7 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm (108.8 inches), meaning it’s roughly the same size as a RAV4 It weighs in at 1,835 kg (4,045 lbs), which is fairly typical for this type of electric vehicle.

Toyota’s latest EV measures 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) in length, 1,875 mm (73.8 inches) in width, and 1,645 mm (64.7 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm (108.8 inches). It tips the scales at 1,835 kg (4,045 lbs).

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Consumers Adapting to ‘New Normal’. Vehicle Customization and Pre-Ordering

Smart Toyota Madison WI 
Happy New Car Day Digital Signage
Consumers ‘Bang the Gong’ to celebrate the arrival of their new Toyota at Smart Toyota Madison WI.

Since early 2020, American consumers have had to come to terms with a new kind of normal. Products and services are not as plentiful as we’ve grown accustomed to. Covid-19 and the occasional freak weather patterns have wreaked havoc on a number of industries in many ways, especially in terms of shortages. The restaurant industry is struggling to hire viable and reliable employees. Grocery stores are out of products, specifically goods originating from meat-packing plants. And we all know how paper products like toilet paper were hard to come by for many months. Nearly all industries are having some growing pains adapting to the unavoidable changes taking place, including automobile manufacturers.

Madisonians have noticed the dearth of new vehicles for the past several months when they pass by Smart Toyota on Odana Road. What has been a car lot brimming with options for decades has suddenly become a sort of ghost town with only a handful or so of vehicles on the lot.

“It’s a very noticeable difference,” says Smart Toyota’s sales director Justin Jackson. “We normally have 400 or more new vehicles on the lot, but since mid-April 2021 we’ve seen a steady decline in the number of New Toyotas we have on the lot. Now we only have maybe 5 to 10 new vehicles physically at the store.”

Justin Jackson
Sales Director
Smart Toyota – Madison, WI

Jackson says the pandemic is partially to blame for the shortage because modern vehicles rely on computer chips which became scarce due to manufacturers reallocating them to industries other than automotive. Then, early in 2021 the issue in new vehicle manufacturing were winter storms that crippled Texas-based businesses that are critical in the manufacturing of foam for seats.

“If it’s not one thing it’s another,” says Jackson. “We’ve got the chips, but because of the power issues Texas faced in the Spring of 2021, we didn’t have enough foam padding for the seats, and today, as production ramps up, it’s supply chain and logistical issues.”

It’s Not All Doom and Gloom

Those looking to purchase a new vehicle seem to understand the slow-down in global manufacturing, Jackson says. Instead of getting upset they can’t drive off the lot with a vehicle they think is “good enough,” consumers are now more apt to customize and pre-order a vehicle specifically made to their specifications.

“It’s kind of cool how people have adapted,” says Jackson. “They might not get that prior sense of immediate gratification of new car ownership, but they get to experience something else: personalization.”

Jackson explains the process of pre-ordering has been well-received for a few reasons, one of which is the compassion the consumer feels about simple logistics as they relate to inventory issues in this day and age.

Vehicle Customization increases satisfaction

“They also really like the fact we can get them exactly what they want; from safety features and amenities, to color preference,” says Jackson. “And when their customized vehicle comes in – usually in about 45 days – they are over the moon when they see the Happy New Car Day sign bearing their name saying the car was made specifically for them. It takes ‘ownership’ to a whole new level.”

Custom Pre-Orders on the Rise

Jackson says about five percent of Smart’s new vehicle sales used to be custom ordered. Today the percentage has skyrocketed to about 50 percent of the dealership’s monthly new car sales. And, Jackson notes, when a consumer has all the customizable options at his or her disposal, no one opts for a base model in order to save a buck or two.

“Often times, though, it’s not options that are the most appealing aspect of pre-ordering,” says Jackson. “Instead, currently, there has been a surge in hybrid vehicle sales. And now in winter, AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicles will see a spike in popularity.”

If you know you are going to order a customized vehicle, Jackson says it might be best to do a little homework prior to meeting with a sales consultant.

“People take a lot of amenities for granted, but if you’re customizing, you should consider some of the following options,” he says.

Custom Pre-Order Checklist

  1. Entertainment & Communications: think about your stereo system. Do you still need a CD player? How about satellite radio capability? Hands-free phone control? A video system? Navigation?
  2. Comfort & Convenience: this includes upholstery, heated/cooled seats, power door locks, keyless entry, dual climate control, etc.
  3. Safety: the simple rule of thumb is the more you can install, the more secure you’ll feel. If you can, opt for dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, and parking assist systems.
  4. Appearance: the most enjoyable aspect of customizing is picking out your paint, trim, and wheels.
  5. Performance: what do you need to get from point A to point B in your daily life? A larger engine? Sport suspension? 4-wheel drive? Automatic transmission or stick?

Jackson says while customers are not complaining right now about having to customize and then wait for their new ride, he anticipates their patience won’t last forever. However, he also doesn’t see new vehicle inventory returning to “normal” in the immediate future, and with customer satisfaction currently at such a high level he’s not overly anxious about it.

“At this point, we do not see ‘ground stock’ (vehicles physically on the lot) back to our previously average levels before the end of the year,” he says. “That could change, but we really don’t see it happening until late 2022.”

The post Consumers Adapting to ‘New Normal’. Vehicle Customization and Pre-Ordering appeared first on Smart Toyota Blog.

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