LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Toyota has offered a sneak peek into the future of compact SUVs with the unveiling of the Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show. This concept car, making its world premiere, showcases Toyota’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, and provides an exciting vision for what a future Toyota Mini Suv could look like. Building upon Toyota’s leadership in electrification, the bZ Compact SUV Concept falls under the “Toyota bZ” brand, representing the company’s “Beyond Zero” initiative.
David Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager, emphasized the significance of this concept: “We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of the Beyond Zero moniker. With an aerodynamic design coupled with intuitive tech features never before seen in a Toyota model, the bZ Concept showcases another possible vision of the very near future with our battery electric vehicles.” This statement highlights Toyota’s ambition to innovate and lead in the battery electric vehicle space, with the bZ Compact SUV Concept as a prime example of their forward-thinking approach to the mini SUV segment.
The Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept embraces a “clean-vital” design philosophy, specifically tailored for battery-electric vehicles. This design language aims to capture the unique essence of EVs, offering a driving experience that is both enjoyable and exhilarating. As a zero-emission vehicle, the concept prioritizes sustainability by incorporating eco-conscious materials within its interior. However, it doesn’t compromise on performance, promising dynamic capabilities, advanced technology, and a striking aesthetic, all within a compact SUV package.
The exterior design of this Toyota mini SUV concept is undeniably futuristic. Its aerodynamic silhouette is accentuated by wheels pushed to the corners, creating a powerful and assertive stance. This design choice gives the impression of motion, even when the vehicle is stationary. The short overhangs and sharp, sweeping angles further emphasize its advanced technological nature. A streamlined cabin design not only contributes to its sleek appearance but also enhances aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in a low drag coefficient.
Inside, the bZ Compact SUV Concept continues to impress with its edgy styling and premium finishes, creating a distinctive and modern cabin environment. Reflecting the “Beyond Zero” theme, Toyota’s design team has integrated several eco-friendly elements, most notably plant-based and recycled materials used in the seating. Adding a touch of personalized technology, the concept features an in-car personal agent named “Yui.” This innovative system interacts with both driver and passengers using audio and visual lighting cues that dynamically move around the cabin, responding to voice requests and commands from any seat within the vehicle.
The “Beyond Zero” message is central to Toyota’s vision, encouraging a proactive approach to sustainable living for a better future. Toyota’s overarching goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 through the widespread adoption of a diverse portfolio of vehicles. This portfolio includes advanced alternative-fuel and zero-emission powertrain technologies. Globally, Toyota is committed to expanding its BEV offerings to approximately 30 dedicated models, with five of these models falling under the bZ (Beyond Zero) brand. This diverse range of electrified vehicles is a crucial component of Toyota’s strategy to achieve its carbon neutrality objectives and lead the way in sustainable mobility, potentially paving the way for future Toyota mini SUV models in the electric era.
