Will the Toyota bZ3X EV be able to boost the brand’s sales after the tariffs come into play?
We all know where Toyota stood in the electric vehicle (EV) versus internal combustion engine (ICE) debate, right? When most automakers around the world began shifting their focus entirely to EVs, with some even announcing timelines to completely phase out ICE models, Toyota didn’t jump on the bandwagon and instead stated it would focus on hybrids.
Toyota championed the hybrid model as a balanced compromise between environmental responsibility and practical usability, maintaining that fully electric models weren’t quite ready to meet the demands of most consumers. However, recent developments suggest that Toyota may now be reconsidering that stance.
Moreover, this shift is evident in how Toyota is beginning to strategically embrace EVs to navigate today’s complex automotive landscape, one shaped by U.S. trade policies, fluctuating demand for EVs, and stiff global competition. A key part of this strategy is the Toyota bZ3X, a well-rounded, family-oriented SUV that combines practicality, technology and affordability.
The bZ3X stands out not only because of its design and features but also because of its price point. Priced from around USD13,800 (approximately RM59,890) in China, it is Toyota’s most affordable smart EV to date. Developed through a partnership with GAC, the bZ3X comes equipped with a 50.03kWh LFP battery that delivers an estimated 430km of CLTC range
On top of that, it also offers a suite of ADAS systems, including remote parking and traffic light assist, features typically found in much higher-end models. Yet despite its promise, the bZ3X is not currently available in the United States. Toyota has opted to delay its EV production in the U.S. until at least 2026 citing the need for design tweaks and slow EV adoption rates.
This cautious approach allows the company to monitor the market and refine its U.S. strategy accordingly. To navigate tariffs and geopolitical trade challenges, Toyota is building these EVs locally in China. At the same time, the brand is investing heavily in the U.S., notably with a USD13.9 billion (about RM60.2 billion) battery plant in North Carolina.
This move underscores Toyota’s long-term plan to comply with the Inflation Reduction Act and signals a more committed, if still deliberate, pivot toward electric mobility. Also why do we not see as many bZ3X models on the road as something like the BYD Seal for example?
We got all this from Auto Blog and their full article is linked here. Thank you Auto Blog for the information and images.
