TOYOTA SIMPLIFIES NAME AND UPGRADES TECH FOR ITS SOLE U.S.ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Toyota has unveiled a revamped version of its only all-electric vehicle in the U.S., renaming the bZ4X to simply “bZ” and introducing significant technological upgrades for the 2026 model year, as announced this week.

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The redesigned bZ, set to hit dealerships in the second half of 2025, boasts a 25% increase in driving range, up to 50% more horsepower, and a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port for Tesla Supercharger compatibility.

For electric vehicle (EV) buyers, auto enthusiasts, and industry observers, the update addresses past criticisms of the bZ4X, which struggled with lackluster performance and a recall for detaching wheels, aiming to boost Toyota's presence in the competitive U.S. EV market.

The bZ now offers a range of up to 314 miles, a new battery preconditioning system, and a refreshed interior with a 14-inch touchscreen, positioning it to rival models like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. With U.S. EV sales reaching 299,100 units in Q1 2025, up 11.4% year-over-year per Cox Automotive, Toyota's move reflects a cautious but deliberate step to strengthen its electrified portfolio, despite selling only 18,570 bZ4X units in 2024.

The changes, crafted for publication on Friday, May 16, 2025, signal Toyota's effort to refine its sole U.S. EV offering while navigating a market increasingly shaped by tariffs and consumer demand for efficiency.

NEW NAME AND EXTERIOR DESIGN

Toyota has streamlined the bZ4X's name to “bZ,” dropping the alphanumeric suffix to simplify branding, a move aimed at making the vehicle more approachable for American buyers. The 2026 bZ features a redesigned exterior with a “hammerhead” front end, aligning with updated Toyota models like the Camry and Crown, and includes modernized headlights and taillights for a sleeker look.