Toyota has consistently provided ways to power people’s everyday mobility, from its tried-and-true combustion engines, such as the venerable 2JZ-GTE in the Supra and Chaser, to HEV powertrains like those found in the Innova Zenix and Yaris Cross, and even dabbling with hydrogen power with the Mirai.
Now, full-blown electric power joins the lineup with Toyota’s first BEV, the bZ4X – a compact crossover SUV that’s been turning heads among Filipino motorists ever since its global debut. Local enthusiasts have eagerly anticipated its arrival, and according to Toyota Motor Philippines President Masando Hashimoto, TMP dealers have been receiving numerous inquiries about the electric SUV since reservations opened on November 7.
“We are encouraged by the positive reception by the public to the news of bZ4X local release,” says President Hashimoto. “Understandably, one of the most common questions is about the EV’s average range. While real-world numbers will always depend on conditions and driving habits, our tests, based on internationally accepted UN Regulations No. 101, show an impressive 570 km of EV range.”
Powering this crossover is a 73.11 kWh Lithium-ion battery, producing 338 hp and 338 Nm of instant EV torque, sending all that power to all four corners, providing an estimated range of 570 km.
With the local release of the bZ4X, the Philippines will now be able to enjoy an electrified version of Toyota’s quality transport, as this electric SUV and all its components are made in Japan, ensuring the top-notch, consistent quality that Toyota is known for.
With Toyota’s extensive lineup, from compacts like the Yaris and Corolla, MPVs and SUVs like the Fortuner and Innova, respectively, vans like the Hiace and Alphard, and even pickups like the Hilux, not to mention the other offerings under Lexus, the bZ4X only continues to expand Toyota’s capability to cater to any and all motorists across the Philippines.
Considering Toyota’s numerous ventures into providing multiple ways of powering mobility, from combustion engines to hybrids and hydrogen, could BEVs be the next breakthrough for the Aichi outfit? Not necessarily, but it’s promising, considering the battery tech the company’s been developing.
