PHOTOS: The Toyota bYD, errr... bZ3, in the flesh at the Guangzhou Auto Show

The Toyota Crown SportCross wasn’t the only Toyota showcased at the 20th Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition.

Painted in a rather fetching light brown is the Toyota bZ3, a battery-electric vehicle (EV) that was created in collaboration with Chinese carmaker BYD.

Although we’ve featured the bZ3 before, these photos of the actual car highlight its edgy design and astonishing 0.218 drag coefficient.

Much like the Toyota Prius hybrid, the bZ3 uses a fastback shape for better aerodynamics and greater cargo versatility.

The predominantly gray cabin features a variety of defined shapes. It also has a “Digital Island” that integrates a large vertical touchscreen with a tray-type center console that includes wireless charging.

Other nifty features include a rotary-style gear selector. And instead of stalks, the bZ3’s turn signals and headlights are controlled with buttons and paddles on the steering wheel.

The model on display at the auto show also featured luxury items like an electric driver’s seat, heated rear seats and air-conditioning vents for the back passengers. 

Under the hood lies an electric motor produced by BYD, with power ranging from 184 to 245 PS. This is connected to a BYD lithium-ion battery that is good for a claimed maximum range of 600 kilometers.

The bZ3 uses the Toyota e-TNGA platform, which also underpins the Toyota bZ4X and the Lexus RZ crossovers. 

It is the second vehicle produced under the Toyota bZ EV lineup. The bZ4X was launched on April 2021.

What do you think of Toyota’s foray into electric cars?