New Toyota bZ4X electric vehicle unveiled

Toyota has already established its reputation for hybrid and plug-in hybrids, but now the automaker is turning to electric vehicles with the all-new Toyota bZ4X Concept unveiled earlier this week.

The new bZ4X is a 100% electric SUV that will be the first vehicle sold under Toyota's bZ banner, an acronym that stands for “Beyond Zero”. The Toyota bZ4X will be built on a brand-new platform called e-TNGA which will serve as the basis for future electric models from Toyota. The manufacturer hasn't released much information about the bZ4X, except that it will offer all-wheel drive.

That said, the images unveiled by the manufacturer show a vehicle very close to production with a cabin and exterior that should resemble the final production version. Toyota says the bZ4X will start production in 2022.

A total of seven bZ models will be offered with 100% electric motors. Toyota also plans to further develop its range of electrified models, including electrified versions of the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra pickup trucks. Toyota made the announcement at the same time as the bZ4X was unveiled.

The new Toyota bZ4X Concept is part of Toyota’s goal of offering 70 electrified models globally by 2025.

“The Toyota bZ4X concept points to yet another option in our already robust electrified portfolio,” said Bob Carter, TMNA executive vice president of sales. “At Toyota, we are a human-centered company – the customer is our CEO and will ultimately decide which technologies will carry us toward a carbon neutral future. With investments and product offerings across the spectrum of electrification, we intend to be there with products and technologies that meet the diverse needs of customers around the world.”