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Toyota doesn’t seem to agree with the electrification efforts of the world. The brand has not released many electric vehicles yet and is mostly focusing efforts on hybrids and hydrogen technology. The reason for this is that engineers believe that electric vehicles are not the answer yet as they cannot provide effective usability. The answer, according to Toyota, is hydrogen power which will enable electric cars to be charged quickly; therefore, eliminating range and charging issues. While we do agree with Toyota’s point of view, some people are worried that the brand will be left behind as most manufacturers are now deeply focused on new electric technology. To avoid such a situation and stay on track, Toyota engineers have developed a new Toyota electric car concept that will satisfy the needs of the current market. It is named the bZ Compact SUV, and it is here to excite us with its quirkiness.
The bZ Compact SUV Concept Looks Futuristic
The sharp corners and boxy design of the Toyota BZ Compact SUV
Concept cars from Toyota and many other Japanese brands tend to be very futuristic – both in their design and technology. This is evident with the second Toyota electric car – the BZ Compact SUV Concept. First and foremost, the design is different from what we are used to today. It is filled with sharp edges and boasts a boxy look but in a futuristic way. Since this Toyota electric car is a compact SUV, it will be similar to the Lexus NX or a Toyota CH-R in terms of size. This is a segment of the SUV market that seems to work great in Europe, but not so much in America. However, the taller ride high combined with the better fuel economy and maneuverability of a smaller vehicle seems very appealing.
On the outside, this Toyota electric car has some interesting and useful features. For example, it has two charging ports – one on each side. This makes charging both through public chargers and at home much easier as the side the plug is located on doesn’t matter. Aside from the charging ports, the bZ offers big 21-inch wheels, and flush door handles that make the vehicle feel futuristic while also improving aerodynamic abilities. In the case of EVs, every single difference counts as its range is heavily dependent on aerodynamics. Anyway, moving to the rear, Toyota has slapped a ‘BEV’ logo which stands for Battery Electric Vehicle. Another unique touch of this concept is the matte paint, something which we hope makes it to production.
A Tech-Heavy, Sustainable Cabin
The simple but very futuristic Toyota BZ Compact SUV
The most futuristic part of the bZ is the interior. When stepping in, you enter a world that seems at least 20 years away. Two huge screens follow the shape of the dashboard, a yoke steering wheel takes the place of a normal wheel, and a blue sphere is there to assist you through voice commands. This sphere is the home of YUI – Toyota’s personal assistant. If the concept ever makes it to production, YUI will help the driver perform functions by voice command. However, we suspect that there will be even more technology infused into this system rather than just voice commands. Fitting with the concept of EVs is an interior that is 30-percent natural material. Meaning that the fabric is sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Has Toyota Taken The Correct Route With The bZ?
Toyota BZ Compact SUV side profile
The bZ may be the correct model for the era we are currently going through as this Toyota electric SUV is highly competitive. However, this release has made us slightly skeptical. You see, Toyota was the only brand holding back from electricity stating concerns similar to those of the public. This gave us hope that the great engineers within the brand would come up with a game-changing solution that would eliminate issues with EVs as we currently know them. We hope that this Toyota electric car is just a step along the way and not a vehicle to replace the future. Toyota may be the only company that has the power and funding to create something different. Let’s just hope that they won’t take the safe route.
Final Thoughts
Aerial view of the Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept
The bZ is as futuristic as vehicles get. This may still be a concept, but there is a good chance that Toyota will put it into production as they have invited plenty of journalists to their studio in downtown LA. As of now, we have zero information regarding battery size, range, power, and price. This being a full-on EV we wouldn’t expect any huge differences with the competition unless Toyota manages to infuse some new technology. In any case, the future of cars is uncertain which makes it interesting. All we can do is sit back and watch as companies try to tackle the emission problem in the most effective and useable way possible.
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