Full Toyota electrification is finally in the Philippines, and we’re sure you have some questions. Here’s a quick guide that will hopefully sate your curiosity.
That name. Why?
Corolla, Land Cruiser, Camry—Toyota is rather adept at naming cars. So, the oddly named bZ4X raised some eyebrows when it debuted because of its moniker. But what it really stands for is ‘Beyond Zero,’ the Japanese carmaker’s zero-emissions initiative, and ‘four-wheel drive crossover.’ Makes sense.
What is an electric vehicle (EV) again?
An EV is just like the normal cars we’ve been driving for decades. But instead of an internal combustion engine (ICE), there’s an electric motor (or two). And instead of gasoline, an EV uses electricity. The electricity is stored in massive batteries inside the EV; this is what replaces the fuel tank in an ICE vehicle.
So, how is Toyota’s first EV like to drive?
It’s quite fast. The power delivery is front-biased: Front wheels get 224hp and 269Nm, while rear wheels get 118hp and 170Nm. But it’s still very controllable, thanks to Toyota’s fine suspension tuning. Speaking of suspension, it’s also comfortable to drive and ride in.
Why did Toyota decide to bring in the bZ4X now?
The bZ4X is part of the Japanese carmaker’s multi-pathway approach to achieve carbon-neutral mobility. Toyota has always believed in electrification as a means of reducing carbon emissions. It brought the Prius HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) into the country way back in 2009, and it has been improving the technology ever since. Toyota also sees the growing charging infrastructure as a good sign to enter the market. Always a believer in positive customer experience, Toyota introduced its EV when it felt the market was ready.
What is a multi-pathway approach?
Toyota doesn’t believe that there’s only one way to reduce carbon emissions and help the environment. It has developed cars with different means of propulsion, all evolving to be more efficient with each generation: battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, internal combustion engines, and even hydrogen-powered vehicles. It regularly assesses each of its over 170 markets and picks which pathway is best for that market.
What makes the bZ4X special compared to the growing number of EVs in the market now?
First off, Toyota would like to emphasize that the model is made in Japan. And because it’s a Toyota, you get top-notch customer support, guaranteed spare parts supply, and a brand that has transported Filipino motorists reliably for 37 years. You can rest easy knowing Toyota will be there with you every step of the customer journey.
The bZ4X we’re getting is the facelifted model with improved range (570km*) and better design. It has Toyota’s tried and tested Toyota Safety Sense suite that will help you drive and be safe. For entertainment and navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto come as standard. Oh, and did we say it looks great? We’ve seen people point and stare several times.
*Based on United Nations Regulations101 (UNR101). Actual consumption and range will vary based on conditions and driving habits.
Am I ready for an electric vehicle?
The first thing to check is if your residence can accommodate the free Toyota portable AC charger and wallbox charger—installation is free as well. Most houses and some condominiums have provisions for a special electrical connection to install a charger.
The next adjustment is your mindset. While there have been great advances in charging technology, an EV charge will still take much longer than an ICE vehicle. You have to be ready to anticipate your needs, and be conscious about topping up your EV as the need arises.
Is the bZ4X the answer to all my mobility problems? Will it make me a better person?
There is no singular answer to mobility challenges. But there are multiple approaches to the problem, and there are multiple pathways to get there. The bZ4X, by emitting zero carbon emissions, contributes zero air pollution as it moves around. It hardly gets cleaner than that.
If you want to buy an electrified vehicle but you can’t install a home charger, you can choose from among Toyota’s growing HEV lineup. But if you like the bZ4X’s design, you always keep your gadgets charged, and you want a taste of the future, then it’s time to take the plunge and go to one of 12 authorized Toyota BEV dealerships.
And once you do have your own bZ4X, be a good motorist and unplug your car from the public charger once it’s done charging. You’re better than the rest of the herd. That’s how you become a better person.
More photos of the Toyota bZ4X:
Created in partnership with Toyota Motor Philippines
