Toyota bZ3X: The Foretelling Concept?

Showcasing the new style of the brand, the bZ Compact SUV concept previews the upcoming Toyota bZ3X, the electric equivalent of the C-HR.

For the Los Angeles 2022 auto show, Toyota Prius announced its fifth generation. Despite being a pioneer since its debut in 1997, the hybrid sedan did not aim to become an electric icon. The Japanese manufacturer is making up for it with a bZ Compact SUV concept car.

Unprecedented Screens

For this new concept car, Toyota advocates minimalism. At least not on the outside, where this SUV features numerous contours and body creases, contrasting with current automotive trends. The front design echoes the signature seen on the bZ4X and especially the new Prius.

The interior is very minimalist, using recycled materials and featuring a slim horizontal dashboard. Its central footrest, supporting the console between the seats, includes a space for smartphones, similar to the Renault Megane E-Tech electric. The very flat steering wheel, following the yoke design of the bZ4X, aims to establish itself at the Japanese firm, accompanied by an innovative feature: curved screens.

But surprisingly, the curved screens – behind the steering wheel and in the center of the dashboard – are bent lengthwise. The reason for this choice is unknown, but it is noticeable that they create many reflections, which can disturb the display readings, though less so in the video above. A voice assistant called “Yui” is expected to compensate for this.

An imminent serial version of the Toyota bZ3X?

Without being asked, the brand has already announced that it will share more details about this bZ Compact SUV in December. As of now, we lack information on its 100% electric propulsion, as well as its battery.

Nevertheless, we know that Toyota aims for an ambitious goal of 30 electric cars by 2030. After the large bZ4X SUV, the bZ3 sedan joins China at the end of 2022, and this concept clearly outlines the main features of a future electric C-HR. There is already a Toyota C-HR electric available in the Chinese market, while it remains hybrid in Europe.

Also read: Paris Motor Show 2022: New models and concepts in photos