Toyota bZ5 Electric SUV Launched in China with BYD Blade Battery

In a bold move to take on the mid-size EV market, Toyota has unveiled the all-electric bZ5 electric coupe in China, starting at just 129,800 yuan. 

As the third model in Toyota’s “bZ” (Beyond Zero) EV lineup after the bZ3 and bZ4X, the bZ5 is built on the e-TNGA platform and powered by BYD’s lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery.

It’s offered in four variants: Joy, Pro, Pro Smart Edition, and a long-range Pro model. Customers can choose between two battery options — a 65.28 kWh pack for up to 550 km (342 miles) of CLTC range, or a larger 73.98 kWh pack that stretches range to 630 km (391 miles). Fast charging is quick too, with 30% to 80% top-ups taking just 27 minutes.

The bZ5 sports Toyota’s new “hammerhead” front-end design, a full-width LED light bar, and a fastback-style roofline that gives it a futuristic and sporty profile. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,780 mm long, 1,866 mm wide, and 1,510 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,880 mm — close to the size of a Tesla Model Y but priced far more aggressively.

Inside, the cabin follows a clean, minimalist approach but is loaded with tech. A 15.6-inch infotainment screen anchors the dashboard, accompanied by a smaller digital driver display. The bZ5 also debuts Toyota’s latest Pilot ADAS system, which combines 33 sensors (including LiDAR on higher trims) to enable over 30 advanced driver-assistance functions such as adaptive cruise, urban assist, and auto parking.

Performance is solid for daily driving. The bZ5 runs on a single front-wheel-drive motor producing 200 kW, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. Energy consumption stands at 13.5 kWh per 100 km, making it efficient for its segment.

Entering a crowded electric SUV space filled with names like Tesla’s Model Y, Leapmotor C10, and Deepal S07, Toyota’s bZ5 aims to carve out a strong position with its blend of pricing, range, and smart design tailored for the Chinese EV boom.