Toyota's Affordable bZ3X EV in China Shares Platform with GAC Aion V

Toyota has introduced its most affordable electric vehicle in China, the bZ3X, with a starting price of approximately $15,150 (around Rs 21 lakh in Nepalese currency).  Despite bearing Toyota's branding, the bZ3X is primarily built on the GAC Aion V platform, sharing the same dimensions, motor, and drivetrain. However, Toyota has incorporated its battery technology into the bZ3X, distinguishing it from the GAC model.

Unveiled by Toyota’s Chinese joint venture, GAC-Toyota, the bZ3X saw an overwhelming response. Over 10,000 reservations poured in within an hour of its launch—so much so that the surge in demand temporarily crashed the ordering system.

The electric SUV is available in two primary configurations: a standard model and a version equipped with advanced smart driving features. The base model starts at ¥109,800 (~$15,150) and is offered in five different trim levels. For those looking for more advanced driving assistance, the smart driving variant starts at ¥149,800 (~$20,500) and comes with Toyota’s full suite of intelligent driving technology.

The entry-level bZ3X 430 Air features a 50.03 kWh LFP battery with a 430 km CTLC range, while the upgraded 430 Air+ starts at ¥119,800 (~$16,500). The 520 Pro and 520 Pro+ offer a 58.37 kWh battery with a 520 km range. The top-tier 610 Max boasts a 67.92 kWh battery, delivering 610 km per charge and a stronger 224 hp motor, unlike the 204 hp setup in the 430 and 520 models.

In terms of size, the bZ3X measures 4,600 mm in length, with width options of 1,850 mm or 1,875 mm and height variations of 1,600 mm or 1,645 mm. It has a wheelbase of 2,765 mm. Inside, the SUV features a 14.6-inch touchscreen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.

Higher-end variants of the bZ3X incorporate LiDAR technology and utilize the Momenta 5.0 smart driving system. This system is backed by an Nvidia Orin X chip with 254 TOPS of computing power, enabling full-scenario Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) functionality without relying on high-definition maps.

In our market, CG Motors is the official distributor of GAC Aion vehicles, including the Aion Y and the recently launched Aion V. Responding to the demand for electric SUVs, CG Motors introduced the Aion V just two months ago.

The Aion V impresses with its bold design and premium features, measuring 4,605 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, with a 185 mm ground clearance. It rides on 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, combining style and practicality.

Inside, the Aion V offers luxury, with leather seats in the front row that are both heated and cooled, plus a smart refrigerator and food warmer in the luxury variant. The panoramic glass roof creates a spacious cabin, while seven airbags ensure safety for all passengers.

With the launch of the bZ3X, Toyota is making a strategic push to strengthen its position in China’s rapidly growing EV market. Japanese automakers have historically struggled to keep pace with local and global competitors in China’s electrification race. However, with its competitive pricing and feature-rich offerings, the bZ3X could help Toyota gain a stronger foothold in the country’s evolving EV landscape.