Toyota kicked off the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show in the U.S. with the global premiere of the bZ, a battery electric compact SUV concept that the automaker says could define future models in the genre.
Toyota has taken the wraps off what could herald the next wave of its electric SUV lineup
“We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of the Beyond Zero moniker,” said Toyota group vice president and general manager David Christ, referencing Toyota’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup. “With an aerodynamic design coupled with intuitive tech features never before seen in a Toyota model, the bZ Concept showcases another possible vision of the very near future with our battery electric vehicles.”
Using a clean-vital design approach, the bZ Concept sports an aerodynamic form that reinforces its futuristic aesthetic, with the 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Sport radials pushed to the corners, giving it an aggressive stance. As a result, the vehicle gets short overhangs that complement its sweepback angles, with the narrow cabin design giving it a low drag coefficient as well as an aerodynamic appearance.
C-shaped headlamps and a trimmed waistline give the bZ Concept a distinctive appearance
Hammerhead-style LED headlamps are the focal point of the sleek front fascia, connected by a full-width light bar. Three-dimensional brake lights hover on an undercut at the rear, where hard angles seemingly stand in contrast with the rest of the vehicle’s curves.
Heading to the inside, the bZ Concept continues the edgy styling alongside eco-friendly materials and premium finishes. Seats are made from plant-based and recycled materials, consistent with the Beyond Zero theme.
Flexible OLED displays for the instrumentation and infotainment screen seem to flow over the contours of the dashboard’s fabric surface, accompanied by an elongated yoke for primary control. At the center console, the electronic shifter is lodged between two wireless charging pads.
The interior features eco-friendly materials and an AI assistant that responds to voice commands from all occupants
Previously appearing in 2017’s Concept-i and 2019’s LQ Concept is the “Yui” onboard personal AI agent that connects everyone inside with the vehicle, responding to verbal requests and commands from both front and rear occupants. Audio and visual lighting cues around the cabin show Yui’s acknowledgement of the voice input.
No information on the powertrain has been disclosed, but Toyota says that the bZ Concept is part of its plans to expand to 30 battery electric vehicles, double the initial figure it revealed in December last year.
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