Bhisma Nambiar
This may be an unpopular opinion, but at first glance, would you consider a Toyota bZ4X EV? Here is my take on why it may not be a success in Malaysia.
1. The Name
Let’s be honest, the name is a handful. Being able to say it correctly would not only be a challenge but one that is easily ‘forgettable‘. Malaysians have been accustomed to Toyota’s rather memorable naming scheme with the likes of ‘Vios’, ‘Corrolla’ and even the lesser favoured ‘CH-R’. bZ4X is not only hard to say but confusing with its mashup of a small b and capital Z and X. Nevertheless, bZ4X does mean something (if you’re wondering). It is Toyota’s naming scheme to denote their line of Zero Emission vehicles (bZ4X – “beyond Zero” and 4X is the model number, kinda like a RAV4).
2. The Design
This may be subjective as the Lexus–Esque design cues are rather prominent on the bZ4X. However, it is still not a particularly attractive SUV. While it may be fine for your typical ‘older gen’ buyers, it will most definitely play well with the younger market. EV designs have been radical with most EVs being simple and ‘less tacky’. Toyota should maybe consider designs that are more minimalist while still retaining its ‘Gundam–like‘ sharp edges.
3. Identity Crisis
The bZ4X is similar in size to a RAV4, making It a crossover, but with a longer wheelbase to match that of a Highlander. As such, it does have an identity crisis of its own. Toyota markets it as a compact crossover SUV if that helps.
Read more: Why the Myvi EV is a great idea.
4. The Lowdown
The bZ4X is slated to arrive on our shores sometime in 2023. This 5 seater (whatever) is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. Although no word which will be sold here for now. The FWD variant sports a single motor with an output of 204 PS (201 hp) and the AWD variant has 2 motors with a combined output of 218 PS (215 hp).
A 71.4 kWh battery is equipped on the bZ4X with AC charging up to 6.6kW and DC charging up to 150 kW. The bZ4X is no slouch as the FWD can do 0 – 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds while the AWD variant is at 7.7 seconds.
The range stated stands at 460km on a full charge however we will see how it fares when it arrives here.
What is your take on the bZ4X? Would it be your first EV since now it is tax-free? Let us know down below.
I would definitely consider the bZ4X coz surely reliable after all it’s a godcar.
Only time will tell if it will be reliable. No doubt Toyota has been in the EV space for awhile now, should be fine.