Toyota unveils bZ7 flagship electric sedan

Toyota has unveiled its newest contender in the EV race, a sleek sedan called the bZ7. Making its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show, this battery-powered flagship is specifically designed for the Chinese market, and Toyota claims that thanks to its size, the bZ7 is ready to challenge established players like the Tesla Model S. If size was the only important thing in this competition, bZ7 would probably have a chance.

Developed in collaboration with its Chinese partner GAC, the Toyota bZ7 stretches over 197 inches in length, placing it squarely in the same size category as premium electric sedans such as Tesla Model S, Mercedes-Benz EQE, and BMW i5. Clearly, Toyota wants to offer a spacious and comfortable ride for discerning Chinese consumers.

Inside the bZ7, a prominent infotainment screen powered by Huawei's Harmony OS takes center stage. This is a growing trend of automakers integrating local technology into vehicles designed for the Chinese market. Complementing the large screen is a simple digital instrument cluster, along with wood trim and ambient lighting that create a sophisticated atmosphere. For added convenience, the center console features traditional physical buttons alongside wireless charging pads. Toyota has also hinted at the inclusion of "the latest intelligent technology," though specific details remain under wraps until the vehicle's expected launch in China next year.

The exterior design of the bZ7 has a streamlined, aerodynamic form. Its roofline slopes gently, showing a sporty profile without compromising the practicality of a sedan. There are some similarities in the side view and window design to the Toyota Crown Crossover, but the bZ7 distinguishes itself with sharper LED headlights and a more refined overall appearance.

There are no powertrain details available yet, but since the bZ7 is built by GAC, we suspect it will share a lot of components with the slightly smaller GAC Aion LX. Although the LX is a crossover, the bZ7 might borrow its 400-hp dual-motor setup together with the 144 kWh battery. If that were the case, then Toyota could have some merit in calling the bZ7 a Tesla competitor.

Interestingly, the bZ7 is not the only new electric model Toyota has introduced in China. The company also presented the bZ5, which is essentially a rebranded version of the bZ3C fastback crossover. These new additions join Toyota's existing lineup of electric vehicles in China, including the bZ4X crossover, the bZ3X SUV, and the bZ3 sedan. This flurry of EV activity shows Toyota is getting serious about the Chinese EV market. Shame it seems to be forgetting about the rest of the world. But credit where credit is due - the bZ7 is so far the best-looking electric Toyota we have seen, and that's gotta count for something.

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