Toyota’s bZ7 Concept 2025 in China: a fit for Europe?

During the Guangzhou Auto Show, Toyota revealed its latest electric car, the bZ7 concept. Slated for production in 2025, this sleek electric sedan underscores Toyota’s growing commitment to the Chinese market and its strategy to challenge domestic players.

While Toyota’s global fully electric offerings remain limited to the bZ4X SUV, the brand has rapidly expanded its bZ series in China, where the sales share of electric cars remains rock-solid. The sheer volume of the market is indispensable for the auto industry.

Resembling the Comfortable Space Concept

Starting with the bZ3 sedan, Toyota has consistently introduced new models tailored to the unique demands of the Chinese market. The bZ7 concept appears to be a continuation of this effort, strikingly resembling the Comfortable Space Concept displayed two years ago at the same Auto Show.

Reportedly, the bZ7 will be produced by Toyota’s joint venture with GAC and is expected to debut in mid-2025. Internally referred to as Project 630D, the vehicle represents a significant investment, with GAC Group allocating 1.588 billion yuan (approximately €207 million) to bring this sleek sedan to life.

BYD Blade battery inside?

The bZ7 features a coupe-like silhouette with a refined and aerodynamic exterior. Its enclosed front fascia is framed by slim LED headlights and a light bar that extends across the front, echoing Toyota’s updated design language. The rear continues the theme with a seamless taillight arrangement, adding a modern and sophisticated touch.

Under the hood, the bZ7 is expected to leverage BYD’s Blade battery technology and electric motors, much like Toyota’s bZ3 sedan. BYD’s advanced powertrain solutions have proven to deliver good performance and efficiency, and their integration into Toyota’s lineup forms part of the automaker’s strategic partnership with one of China’s leading battery manufacturers.

Doubling down on its offerings

Ironically, BYD is dominating car sales in its home country, which is not only the largest but also the most competitive in the world. To remain relevant, Toyota has doubled down on its EV offerings in the region. The bZ7’s entry seeks to carve out a stronger presence in the electric sedan segment, competing with popular models such as the BYD Han, Xiaomi SU7, and Volkswagen ID.7.

The Guangzhou Auto Show also saw the debut of the comparable Nissan N7 sedan, marking a very comparable move by a Japanese automaker to regain and boost market share in China. Similarly, Mazda pulled the veils from its Changan-based mid-size EZ-6 half a year ago, which will also be available in Europe.

No doubt, Toyota will keep a keen eye on the latter’s success to weigh in on the possible success of the bZ7 among European customers, especially as its zero-emission range outside China remains underwhelming.