Japan and China share a historically complex diplomatic relationship. Toyota is now focusing on the Chinese market, recently revealing the bZ7 concept sedan, which combines design elements from the Prius and Mirai. The bZ7 aims to compete with local models while Toyota enhances its presence through joint ventures and strategic partnerships, including sourcing components from competitors like BYD. This shift highlights the evolving dynamics within the competitive Chinese automotive landscape.
The Complex Relationship Between Japan and China
While we can’t change the past, the diplomatic ties between Japan and China have been historically intricate. Today, however, Toyota, the leading automotive manufacturer from Japan, is focusing on creating and marketing vehicles for the largest automotive market in the world: China. Recently, Toyota unveiled the bZ7 concept in China, offering a glimpse into the future of their sedan lineup.
Design Inspirations from Iconic Models
Upon first glance at the bZ7 concept, it feels like a blend of the innovative Prius and the futuristic Mirai. The front design showcases Toyota’s latest lighting signature, reminiscent of the fifth-generation Prius and the second C-HR. The overall shape features a sloping roofline similar to the Mirai, culminating in a sharply inclined tailgate that enhances its sporty aesthetic.
Interestingly, Toyota has been offering an electric sedan in China since April 2023, known as the bZ3. Positioned as a more spacious and premium alternative, the bZ7 aims to elevate the brand’s presence in the market.
The streamlined silhouette of the bZ7 emphasizes its aerodynamic design, incorporating solid wheels, flush door handles, and compact cameras in place of traditional side mirrors. Notably, the absence of a large grille, which is common in Toyota’s luxury brand Lexus, further signifies its unique design approach.
While specific dimensions remain undisclosed, for the bZ7 to effectively compete with models like the Xiaomi SU7, BYD Han, or Luxeed S7, it is expected to be around 5 meters in length.
Strategic Moves in the Competitive Chinese Market
In contrast to its single electric offering in Europe, the bZ4X, Toyota is ramping up its efforts in China to retain its competitive edge against local brands. As foreign manufacturers increasingly lose market share to emerging Chinese companies, Toyota is adapting its strategies.
In a bid to stay relevant, Toyota is involved in a joint venture with GAC, launching several projects, including the bZ3X and a variant called bZ3C. Reports indicate that the bZ7 is part of the ambitious 630D project, which has received significant funding amounting to $218 million.
Furthermore, it wouldn’t be surprising if the bZ7 is equipped with BYD’s Blade motors and batteries, following a similar strategy as the bZ3, which competes with the Tesla Model 3 in China. This highlights a curious paradox where Toyota, while striving to maintain its market presence, sources crucial components from its competitors.
The trend isn’t limited to China; in Europe, companies like Peugeot are also utilizing BYD batteries for their e-3008 and e-5008 models, all while navigating the complexities of the automotive landscape shaped by the European Union’s regulatory measures against Chinese manufacturers.