Toyota’s first dedicated EV is here, created in partnership with Subaru and very similar to the all new Subaru Solterra. The bZ4X (yes, that is the name) stands for “beyond Zero” emissions and “crossover.” It may be the most un-Toyota name imaginable, but it and the somewhat unique design are perhaps the most daring things about the car itself. The typical Toyota hallmarks are still here, although they may not be immediately obvious.

For example, as typical for Toyota, they are conservative when it comes to new technology and implementation. While the whole vehicle itself for them could be considered “new technology,” what Toyota decided to prioritize in the bZ4X is what stands out. The actual specs of the bZ4X sound relatively pedestrian. The onboard charger only supplies 6.6 kW, leading to slower than average charge time, with speed maxing out at 150 kW, only for the FWD model. AWD is limited to 100 kW. This means a 10 to 80% DC fast charge will be near an hour. Range is pretty average, at about 250 miles. However, this was all done intentionally according to Toyota, with the purpose of continuing their legacy of resilient, dependable, long lasting cars. They purposely kept the specs in check, taking stress off the battery, and it’s exactly what Toyota buyers are looking for!