Toyota Motor Corporation has officially announced the introduction of three new battery electric vehicle (BEV) models — C-HR+, bZ4X, and Lexus RZ — during a presentation held on March 12, 2025, aimed at boosting its presence in the competitive European electric vehicle market. With electric vehicle sales currently only accounting for approximately 5% of new car sales in Europe, the automotive giant has set ambitious targets to increase this figure to around 20% by 2026-27 with these new models.
During the presentation led by Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries, the company revealed detailed specifications of the new BEVs, which are part of its multi-pathway strategy aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. "Our approach to vehicle development has always been centered on providing varied options to meet the diverse needs of our customers," he stated, highlighting Toyota's commitment to sustainability through innovation.
The first model, the C-HR+, marks Toyota's entry with this compact SUV BEV, which boasts impressive specifications. It features two lithium-ion battery options; the base model has a capacity of 57.7kWh, offering a cruising range of 455 kilometers, and the extended range option with 77.0kWh enables up to 600 kilometers per charge. The C-HR+ will be available for front-wheel and all-wheel drives, providing users with greater flexibility and utility, including a spacious luggage capacity of 416 liters. It is expected to launch in Europe sometime during the second half of 2025.
The bZ4X, Toyota's first mass-produced BEV and also part of the new lineup, is set to launch alongside the C-HR+. Similar to the C-HR+, it also offers two battery capacities — 57.7kWh for standard performance and 73.1kWh for extended range, aiming for 70 kilometers more range compared to previous iterations. A notable feature of the bZ4X is its 'Battery Preconditioning' technology, which optimizes battery temperature to facilitate quick charging times, targeting approximately 30 minutes even under cold weather conditions.
Another exciting addition is the Lexus RZ, which is scheduled for sequential rollout starting fall 2025. This model enhances the brand's luxury offerings with cutting-edge technology aimed at creating not just vehicles but also immersive driving experiences. It is equipped with updated electric drives, shorter charge times, and high-output motors, including features like the steer-by-wire system and innovative ‘Interactive Manual Drive,’ allowing drivers to engage more dynamically with the car.
Looking at the broader picture, Toyota recognizes the growing demand for electric vehicles within the EU, particularly as the region aims to restrict the sale of new gasoline vehicles by 2035. CEO Kaneshiro Nakata emphasized, "Our commitment to EVs reflects our passion and determination to adapt to the market," pointing out the challenges posed by underdeveloped charging infrastructure as well as market fluctuations affecting EV proliferation.
While the Japanese automotive firm aims high with its new lineup, the unique competitive challenges highlight the necessity to secure substantial customer acceptance. The European market has seen significant shifts as major manufacturers grapple with similar hurdles — from subsidy suspensions impacting buyer incentives to the rapid evolution of EV technology. Toyota is also exploring measures to start local productions of exported EV units should sales figures warrant such decisions.
This new drive to diversify the lineup correlates with efforts to establish improved market foothold amid intensified competition from Tesla and various burgeoning Chinese brands. By releasing these three BEV models, Toyota demonstrates its resolve to position itself as a significant player amid shifting consumer preferences toward more sustainable transportation options.
Nakata’s aspirations for achieving up to 20% EV sales as part of Toyota’s total sales mix hinges on several factors, including bolstered infrastructure support, government incentives, and consumer attitudes toward electric mobility. It's evident Toyota is banking on the strength of its diverse offerings, from hybrids to pure electrics, to engage customers seeking eco-responsible choices.
Nevertheless, with projections for the targeted sales growth timeline teetering on uncertainties tied to policy changes and infrastructure readiness, the company remains vigilant. The upcoming models exemplify Toyota's strategic shift toward enhanced product portfolios, ensuring it not only meets but anticipates the needs of future customers.
"We aim to provide various pathways for achieving carbon neutrality, affirming our commitment to sustainability and technological advancement through our vehicles," concluded Humphries, signaling excitement for the future and reaffirming the company's extensive investment in electric vehicle technology as it shifts gears toward sustainable mobility.