The joint venture between FAW-Toyota and BYD has resulted in the production of the bZ3 electric vehicle, which has now rolled off the production line in China. The bZ3 was developed by Toyota and BYD and has been in development since 2020. After three years, it is finally available for pre-sale at a price range of 189,800 – 219,800 RMB (27,400 – 31,800 USD), with deliveries starting in Q1 2023.
The first 5,000 customers who book the bZ3 online for 2,000 RMB (290 USD) before May 31 will receive a subsidy of 5,000 RMB (725 USD) when the car hits the market. In addition, old and loyal FAW-Toyota customers are eligible for an 8,000-RMB (1,160 USD) replacement subsidy or a 6,000-RMB (870 USD) additional purchase subsidy. The first customers will also receive ten years of free maintenance or 200,000 km, 24-hour free road assistance, and a free charging pile.
See also: Toyota releases bZ3 electric sedan in China to compete with Tesla Model 3
The bZ3 measures 4725/1835/1475mm in length, width, and height, respectively, with a wheelbase of 2880mm. The car has a bold design, with through-type lights that showcase the shape of special-shaped lights on the left and right sides.
The interior of the bZ3 boasts a unique design language that differs from other Toyota models. The upper and lower flat-bottomed steering wheel is specially designed, and the position of the steering lamp and wiper is different from the past. The whole center console is straightforward but does not lack a sense of design. The car’s 12.3-inch suspended central control screen supports voice control, wireless charging, vehicle-machine interconnection, and other technological functions.
FAW-Toyota manufactures the bZ3, while the motor, electric control system, and battery pack are purchased from BYD. This partnership between the world’s largest fuel vehicle manufacturer and the world’s largest EV manufacturer has had a significant impact on China’s automobile industry.
The FAW-Toyota New Energy Plant, located north of the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-city, has a total planned area of 1.97 million square meters. The plant, which commenced in June 2020, was officially put into operation in October 2022, and has an annual capacity of 200,000 units.
See also: Toyota bZ3 electric sedan powered by Blade battery from BYD
Equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous motor with a maximum power of 180kW and a peak torque of 303 Nm, the bZ3 has a top speed of 160 km/h and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. The battery pack has a capacity of 49.92-65.28 kWh, and the car has a range of 517-616 km under the CLTC.
Overall, the bZ3 offers a unique design, advanced technological features, and an environmentally friendly power source, representing a significant milestone in the development of the automobile industry in China.
