Toyota has unveiled the bZ3, an electric saloon and the second model in the bZ range after the bZ4X SUV. The car was jointly developed for the Chinese market by Toyota and BYD and was previewed by the bZ SDN concept car unveiled by Toyota president Akio Toyoda at a major event in Tokyo on 14 December 2021. Based on the e-TNGA platform, the bZ3 is 4.72 metres long, 1.83 metres wide, 1.47 metres high and has a wheelbase of 2.88 metres. The designers worked hard on aerodynamics: the result is an air drag coefficient of 0.21, among the lowest in its class.
The development concept of the bZ3 follows that of the ‘Family Lounge’, based on the idea that cars are also a useful space for enjoying time with family and friends, and not just a means of transport. The vehicle has a front end that recalls the shape of a hammerhead shark, typical of the bZ series, while the overall silhouette is smooth and the long cab is reminiscent of the fastback world. The interior features the ‘Digital Island’ system that integrates a large vertical central display and console. In addition to wireless charging, it integrates functions for connecting smartphones and multimedia, offering a new customer experience. Air conditioning, music, boot release and other controls are also integrated into the large display.
