Toyota’s first electric sedan, the bZ3, powered by BYD technology, received an enthusiastic response on its first day of launch. According to FAW-Toyota, the automaker’s joint venture in China, the bZ3 received 5,000 orders on April 16, securing a warm welcome from EV enthusiasts in the country.
The bZ3 was first introduced in October 2022 as Toyota’s second fully electric model in its bZ (Beyond Zero) lineup. The electric sedan will join the bZ4X SUV, which is the automaker’s first global electric vehicle. The bZ3 was co-developed by BYD Toyota EV Technology, a joint venture established with FAW-Toyota, and BYD, China’s largest EV maker.
While the bZ3 is based on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, which is also used for the bZ4X, the electric sedan uses a lithium-ion LFP Blade battery, electric motor, and electronic control system from BYD. The bZ3 distinguishes itself from Toyota’s electric SUV with its low center of gravity and an upgraded interior that includes the automaker’s largest 12.8-inch suspended multimedia navigation system.
FAW-Toyota launched its first bZ3 model in March, with a starting price of just 189,800 RMB ($27,000) and a maximum 616 km (roughly 382 mi) CLTC range. After going on sale on April 16, the automaker announced that the bZ3 electric sedan orders had reached 5,000, with sales momentum expected to continue growing.
The bZ3 will be available in three versions, including Elite PRO, long-range PRO, and long-range Premium models. The electric sedan will be offered with two different battery sizes, 135 kW and 180 kW, both with a maximum torque of 303 Nm (224 lb-ft). Additionally, two battery packs, 49.9 kWh and 65.3 kWh, will deliver 517 km (321 miles) and 616 km (382 miles) of CLTC range, respectively.
FAW-Toyota claims that the bZ3 can charge from 30% to 80% in 27 minutes with DC fast charging. According to the automaker, customers who purchase the bZ3 between April 16 and July 31, 2023, will be eligible for a “limited benefit” of 15,000 RMB ($2,180). With its impressive range and affordable price, the bZ3 is set to become a popular choice among EV buyers in China.
