Toyota New Zealand is taking orders for its first fully electric vehicle, the bZ4X, with the first shipment to arrive early next year.

Toyota New Zealand Chief Executive, Neeraj Lala, says the bZ4X continues the proud heritage of providing customers with capable and practical everyday mobility. 

“Toyota’s legacy has been further enhanced to meet the future needs of Kiwi drivers in our low carbon economy,” said Lala.

“The bZ4X is just the beginning of a new chapter as Toyota has up to nine more BEV models for production globally over the next three years.”

 Priced at $72,990 for the entry-level bZ4X “Pure” model, Toyota’s bZ4X features a full BEV zero emissions platform. 

Offered in two variants – the bZ4X Pure front wheel drive and Motion all-wheel drive variants.

Debuting an all-new e-TNGA platform, the bZ4X is powered by a thin design, high-capacity 71.4kWh battery pack which sits flat under the floor of the SUV helping it to achieve a low centre of gravity. This ensures a flat and composed ride on both the highway and New Zealand’s secondary roads.

The bZ4X is also the first Toyota to adopt the eAxle technology integrating the transaxle, motor generator, and inverter with 150kw of power available for the Front Wheel Drive 'Pure', and 160kW for the All-Wheel Drive 'Motion' (80kW front, 80kW rear), which is priced at $82,990.

Inside there’s a bespoke design and plush materials to be found, including combined fabric and synthetic leather seats in the Pure and the option of black or grey synthetic leather upholstery in the Motion. The driving position is refined and comfortable, and the controls are easy to find. There’s no glovebox, giving front-seat passengers more knee room. Instead, there is storage space under the centre console. Passengers in the back are treated to plenty of headroom, plus extra space to stretch their legs out.

Safety features are second to none. bZ4X adopts the latest Toyota Safety Sense package; the Pre-Collision System includes motorcycle detection, Intersection Collision Avoidance Support and Emergency Steering Assist. The Motion variant adds a Panoramic View Monitor and Blind Spot Monitor with safe exit assist.

The bZ4X was designed with help from Subaru, and the Motion’s all-wheel drive system can easily handle dry, dusty trails involving steep climbs and descents, and is equally capable on wet, claggy ground. It can wade through deep water, too — up to 177mm and both models can tow 750kg unbraked.

While the Pure rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with a silver and black metallic full resin cover to aid aerodynamics, the Motion variant features 20-inch black and machined finished alloys with resin accents. The Motion variant includes additional exterior features including a panoramic roof and power shade, and a larger split rear spoiler.