In a bid to distance itself from its history of lobbying for climate-skeptical politicians and resisting electric vehicles (EVs), Toyota is making a conspicuous statement about its commitment to a sustainable future. The Japanese automaker recently took to social media to unveil a distinctive blue badge that will adorn its upcoming electric crossover, symbolizing its dedication to “the happiness of people living on earth.”
The teaser video released by Toyota offers a glimpse of the rear end of the bZ compact SUV, a precursor to its forthcoming electric SUV. First introduced in November 2022 as the bZ Compact SUV concept, this vehicle is set to play a pivotal role in Toyota’s EV strategy. As the camera zooms in on the “BEV” (Battery Electric Vehicle) badge, a new addition, a blue circle badge reminiscent of the one featured on the iconic Prius, comes into view.
This distinctive badge takes center stage, surrounded by visuals portraying clean water, children frolicking in fields, sunlit forests, and other heartwarming imagery. Accompanying the teaser, Toyota’s statement reads, “This badge from the Prius conveys the message that we value the happiness of people living on earth and want to pass it on to the next generation.”
私たちが生きる今は、次世代が生きる未来でもある。
プリウスから付けられたこのバッジには、地球に暮らす人々の幸せを大切にし、次世代にそれを引き継いでいきたいというメッセージが込められています。
ゼロを超えた未来へ。BEYOND ZERO。#TOYOTA #BEYONDZERO pic.twitter.com/A15shOgXxS
— トヨタ自動車株式会社 (@TOYOTA_PR) September 19, 2023
The bZ Compact SUV concept, described by Toyota as a “nod to the near future,” is rumored to bear the production moniker “bZ3X.” Positioned between the Corolla Cross and the RAV4 in size, this concept vehicle is characterized by its striking design, a creation of the Toyota ED2 center in France, sharing some design elements with the C-HR Prologue.
Inside the bZ Compact SUV, a curved infotainment screen takes center stage, and the cabin is adorned with plant-based or recycled materials, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to sustainability.
While specifics about the powertrain of the production version remain undisclosed, its sibling, the bZ4X, boasts up to 214 horsepower (160 kW / 217 PS) and a range of up to 252 miles (406 km) according to EPA estimates. Notably, in the Chinese market, Toyota introduced the bZ3 sedan, sharing the platform with the bZ4X, and offering an impressive estimated range of over 373 miles (600 km) due to its smaller size and the generous Chinese test cycle.
Looking ahead, Toyota is gearing up for next-generation battery technology, with promises of delivering up to 500 miles (805 km) of range by 2026, a move that aligns with their ambitious plan to sell millions of EVs annually by that same year. Toyota’s commitment to EVs seems to be underlined by this symbolic badge, marking a pivotal step towards a cleaner and more sustainable automotive future.
