Automotive
Toyota has always been recognized for several key strengths: its off-road capabilities and pioneering work with hybrid technology through the Prius. The company took this combination to new heights by creating a lineup of luxury SUVs that incorporated both these features.
Following extensive development efforts, Toyota entered the plug-in hybrid market with the Lexus NX in 2020. However, the Japanese automaker truly made a breakthrough with the introduction of the bz4X model – an all-new Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) designed from scratch.
The bz4X stood out distinctly among other Toyota models on the road. Its imposing front fascia, complemented by a curved spoiler at the bottom, suggested off-road prowess. The design featured a minimalist grille positioned low on the apron. Toyota further enhanced the vehicle’s appearance with black, unpainted plastic wheel arch extensions. At the rear, a duck-tail spoiler and a forward-sloping windshield accentuated the crossover’s dynamic profile, while 20-inch alloy wheels completed its elevated stance.
This futuristic exterior design extended into the cabin, where traditional analog instruments were replaced by a modern TFT display. The interior design philosophy, dubbed “lagom” – a Swedish concept meaning “just right” – translated into a clean, minimalist aesthetic. The infotainment system was mounted on top of the center stack, featuring a touchscreen interface with wireless connectivity for both Android and iOS devices.
Underpinning the bz4X was the e-TNGA platform, characterized by a long wheelbase and wheels positioned at the corners. Its innovative four-wheel steering system enabled exceptionally tight turning capabilities, with a turning radius of only 5.7 meters (18.7 feet). Developed in partnership with Subaru, the bz4X offered an all-wheel-drive system, though a front-wheel-drive configuration was also available.
