Toyota this week launched sales of the first full electric vehicle it has developed with BYD, China’s largest electrified-vehicle maker.
The Toyota bZ3, a compact electric sedan, has a starting price of 169,800 yuan ($24,421), according to FAW-Toyota, Toyota’s joint venture with China FAW Group.
The bZ3 was developed by BYD Toyota Electric Vehicle Technology, a partnership the Japanese automaker established with BYD in 2020.
It is 4,725 mm long, 1,835 mm wide and 1,475 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,880 mm.
The EV is based on Toyota’s platform dedicated to EVs, the e-TNGA architecture, and is powered by iron phosphate batteries and an electric motor that BYD supplies.
It is available with a standard range of 517 kilometers or a long range of 616 km.
The bZ3 is the second bZ-series EV model Toyota is producing in China following the bZ4X crossover.
In this episode of the Ally All Ears podcast, host Emma Hancock interviews Kelly Olson, Senior Director of Operations for SmartAuction at Ally Financial, about the importance of quality control in online wholesale auctions. Olson discusses advancements in online auction platforms, highlighting the importance of detailed condition reports, AI technology for damage detection, and the evolving incorporation of electric vehicle information, all aimed at building trust and reliability for dealers purchasing pre-owned inventory.
The bZ4X, also assembled at FAW-Toyota, went on sale in October 2022 at a starting price of 199,800 yuan.
Toyota plans to roll out five bZ-series models in China before 2025.
