Toyota and GAC have begun sales of the bZ3X electric SUV in China, with prices starting at 109,800 yuan ($15,200). The model has drawn strong initial demand, with more than 10,000 orders placed in the first hour.
The bZ3X is Toyota’s most affordable electric model in China to date, positioning it in the competitive 100,000-yuan EV segment. The SUV features an advanced driver assistance system from Momenta, which enables ‘Navigate on Autopilot’ using onboard sensors rather than high-resolution maps.
The bZ3X is available in seven variants, with five models priced between 109,800 and 159,800 yuan, while two higher-end versions include lidar technology without added cost. The SUV is built on the GAC Aion Architecture Electric Platform (AEP) 3.0 and shares similarities with the GAC Aion V, a model slated for European release.
Powered by a 150 kW electric motor from Guangzhou Nidec Auto Drive System, the base version features a 50 kWh LFP battery, offering a 430-kilometer range under the CLTC cycle. Higher-end variants extend the range to 520 km and 620 km. Fast charging replenishes the battery from 30% to 80% in 24 minutes.
Measuring 4.60 meters in length with a 2.77-meter wheelbase, the bZ3X is slightly smaller than Toyota’s bZ4X, which starts at 179,800 yuan in China. While the bZ4X has not been a dominant player in China’s EV market, the strong early demand for the bZ3X suggests it could be a turning point for Toyota in the region.
Source: EVMagz