Introducing the Toyota bZ4X: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Driving in New Zealand

 

We caught up with our in-house EV expert, Dylan Thornley, to find out more about this electrifying new addition to the Toyota lineup and what it means for the future of driving.

Sustainability at the Forefront

We can’t talk about the bZ4X without mentioning Toyota’s significant goals for sustainability in New Zealand. With a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050, the bZ4X is an exciting step in that direction. Toyota is planning to have an option for everyone that meets their needs. This means there will be options for diesel vehicles, petrol, hybrids, plug-ins, and full electrics, with hydrogen vehicles also in the plans. While there are very few hydrogen vehicles available right now, it's exciting to know that Toyota is working towards providing options that meet everyone's needs.

Familiar Yet Modern Design

The bZ4X is a very exciting car, a modern version of what many of our customers have come to know and love about current Toyotas. When you get in, the initial feeling will be that it feels familiar but with a modern twist. Everything from the driver's multi-information screen behind the steering wheel to the centre console design feels very Toyota. It has been designed with similarities to our existing models, but the experience is what I think will impress a lot of people. I always urge people, even if they're just pondering the decision, to come and take it for a drive to know exactly what the bZ4X has to offer.

Stylish and Feature-Packed

For me, the bZ4X has a great style and appearance, complemented by features our customers have asked for. Toyota released the bZ4X after listening to their customers and understanding what EV buyers were looking for. It's been meticulously built from the ground up on a whole new platform. The bZ4X is the first of the Beyond Zero (BZ) series, with two more models to come by 2025: the bZ2X, a smaller version, and the bZ5X, a seven-seater.

One of my personal favourite features of the bZ4X is the regenerative braking system. This allows you to drive the car using the acceleration pedal, and when you take your foot off, the car provides engine braking. This reduces wear on brake pads, which is particularly important for a slightly heavier vehicle, and also helps recharge the battery.

Addressing Range Anxiety

Range anxiety is a hot topic for many people considering EVs. One of my top tips for managing it is planning your destination. Download an app that shows the entire country's charging stations, what they charge per kilowatt, if they're in use or available, and how much it will cost. Planning stops at favourite locations, like a local pie place or café, or just somewhere to stretch your legs can make charging stops enjoyable. The other thing to remember is, it’s about the journey and it’s not a race. Allow for some additional time for your trip and take the chance to enjoy it.

 

Pro tip - use this new style of travel to experience local cafes, restaurants, or scenic stops you would have traditionally passed by. It's a great way to discover a new favourite spot.

Practical Tips for New EV Drivers

For those transitioning to a full EV, here are five top tips:

  1. Charge Every Night: Even if you only travel 30-40 kilometres in a day, plug in your bZ4X overnight so it's ready to go in the morning. This ensures you have the range you need for any unforeseen trips.

  2. Home Charging: While DC fast charging is available, home AC charging is more cost-effective and convenient for daily use. It might take longer, but it will cover most of your charging needs.

  3. Plan Your Journey: Know your route and the locations of charging stations along the way. The bZ4X offers a range of about 420 km for the front-wheel-drive model and 390 km for the all-wheel-drive model, which should be sufficient for most daily drives.

  4. Enjoy the Drive: The bZ4X is a pleasure to drive. Enjoy the journey, and don't rush. The car is designed to be efficient and enjoyable, with the capability to handle quick acceleration for overtaking when needed.

  5. Reserve Battery Range: Toyota has built in a reserve battery range, so even when the display shows zero range, there is still some reserve power left, much like a fuel tank reserve.

Versatility for Everyday Life

The bZ4X is versatile enough to handle all your daily activities, from morning trips to the farmer’s market and taking kids to sports, to lunch outings, walks on the beach, and evening events. Whether you're in Port Chalmers or Portsmouth Drive, the bZ4X is equipped to get you there and back with ease.

Here's an example of a typical day with the bZ4X in Dunedin:

  • Morning: Start with a trip to the local markets.
  • Mid-Morning: Take the kids to their sports activities.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a meal at your favourite restaurant by The Esplanade.
  • Afternoon: Walk the dogs at the beach.
  • Evening: Head out for the evening to catch a concert or meet friends for dinner, knowing the bZ4X can handle it all.

Charging overnight, much like plugging in your phone, ensures the bZ4X is ready for a full day of activities without any worries about range.

Conclusion

The Toyota bZ4X represents a significant step forward in sustainable driving. With its modern design, impressive range, and practical features, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to transition to an electric vehicle. By addressing common concerns like range anxiety and providing practical tips for new EV drivers, Toyota makes the switch to electric smooth and enjoyable. Experience the future of driving with the Toyota bZ4X.

To book your bZ4X test drive, contact Dylan at 03 466 4166, 021 286 9682, or email dylant@cooke.toyota.co.nz