Toyota's Latest Flagship Electric Sedan Has Arrived, But It's Not Available for Us | Carscoops

      The new bZ7 sedan, developed in collaboration with GAC, presents a sleek design and boasts cutting-edge technology.

      The bZ7 aligns in size with the Tesla Model S and BYD Han L in China.

      Under its exterior, it houses a CALB-Tech battery and an electric motor delivering 268 hp.

      The infotainment and smart ecosystem inside are powered by Huawei and Xiaomi.

      While Toyota has lagged behind many of its traditional competitors in Western EV markets, it has been introducing more appealing zero-emission models in China, such as the bZ5 and bZ3 sedans. Its latest offering is the bZ7, a stylish full-size flagship sedan created with joint-venture partner GAC, designed to rival the Tesla Model S.

      Earlier this year, the bZ7 was previewed in a pre-production version and has now been revealed in its final form. This low-slung sedan is set to debut in China before the end of 2025. While it may not be described as beautiful or particularly striking, its proportions and silhouette are certainly more attractive than the original bZ4X, which has since been rebranded.

      Sharp Lines, Long Body

      The front of the car is characterized by lobster claw-shaped headlights accompanied by a light bar, situated above a small blacked-out lower grille. A sleek roofline descends to a compact rear decklid, where interconnected taillights highlight the width of the vehicle. The design is completed with curved door panels, flush door handles, and various surface sculptings.

      Recent data indicates the bZ7 is 5,130 mm (201.9 in) in length, 1,965 mm (77.3 in) in width, and 1,506 mm (59.2 in) in height, with a wheelbase measuring 3,020 mm (118.9 in). These dimensions position it directly against competitors like the Tesla Model S, BYD Han L, and BMW i5.

      The Powertrain

      During its preview at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, specifications regarding the powertrain were unknown. However, information from China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has revealed that the bZ7 will be equipped with a lithium-iron phosphate battery from CALB-Tech, driving a single electric motor with 278 hp. Further details concerning battery capacity and driving range are anticipated.

      A Tech Fest

      The powertrain has been integrated with components from Huawei, including the motor, MCU, and inverter, forming a unified unit. The bZ7 will feature Huawei's HarmonyOS cockpit and infotainment system.

      In addition to its collaboration with Huawei, the new EV will incorporate Xiaomi’s smart ecosystem, allowing connectivity to personal devices and smart home products from the tech giant. This will enable owners to operate Xiaomi devices like home air conditioning units directly from the car.

      Further information, including pricing, is expected to be released shortly before the electric flagship’s introduction in China's competitive EV market later this year. While Toyota has not confirmed plans for markets outside China, it wouldn’t be surprising if the bZ7 made its way to select regions where large sedans continue to attract consumers.