infonowcast

Electric Cars

Toyota Unveils bZ3X Electric SUV in China, Secures Impressive Pre-Orders

2025-03-07

Toyota has introduced its latest electric vehicle (EV), the bZ3X SUV, to the Chinese market. This launch marks a significant milestone for the automaker, as it aims to challenge preconceived notions about Toyota's vehicles being technologically limited. Within an hour of its debut, the company reported securing 10,000 pre-orders, indicating strong consumer interest. The bZ3X is priced starting at 109,800 yuan (approximately 15,100 USD) and features advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) from Momenta, a Chinese autonomous driving startup. With a maximum range of 610 km, this five-door, five-seater SUV offers three battery options and comes equipped with lidar technology on select trims. Toyota emphasizes that 65% of the components are sourced locally, underscoring its commitment to the Chinese market.

The introduction of the bZ3X signifies Toyota's strategic pivot towards electrification and localization in China. The vehicle leverages the platform of GAC Aion V, sharing similar dimensions and drivetrain characteristics but differing in battery specifications. Key features include a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery available in three capacities: 50.0 kWh, 58.4 kWh, and 67.9 kWh, providing ranges of 430 km, 520 km, and 610 km respectively under CLTC conditions. The SUV is front-wheel drive (FWD) and powered by a single electric motor with outputs of either 150 kW or 165 kW, capable of reaching speeds up to 160 km/h.

The bZ3X's interior design takes cues from Tesla's minimalist approach, featuring a prominent 14.6-inch touchscreen display. However, it relies on the older Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, which contrasts with newer EVs using more advanced processors. Notably, lidar-equipped variants utilize the Nvidia Orin X chip, boasting 254 TOPS of computing power. Toyota asserts that the bZ3X is the first model from their joint venture in China to incorporate lidar technology, enhancing its ADAS capabilities.

Momenta's advanced driving assistance system, including versions with Robosense lidar and Momenta 5.0 technology, enables the bZ3X to navigate autonomously without high-definition maps. The top-tier 610 Max trim even offers optional lidar and Momenta 5.0 ADAS, while other models come standard with Toyota Pilot assistance. This integration of cutting-edge technology reflects Toyota's ambition to redefine its brand perception in the EV space.

Toyota's emphasis on local sourcing underscores its dedication to the Chinese market. With 65% of parts coming from Chinese suppliers and only 1% imported, the bZ3X exemplifies Toyota's strategy to localize production. Manufactured through the GAC-Toyota joint venture, the vehicle is currently exclusive to China. The initial surge in pre-orders and server crash during the launch highlight the public's enthusiasm for the bZ3X. Early buyers also benefit from a limited-time discount of 5,000 yuan (around 700 USD). Moving forward, Toyota will closely monitor the sales performance of this new model, building on the moderate success of its existing bZ series cars in China.

The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, equipped with the Weissach package and Pirelli Trofeo RS tires, has achieved yet another milestone by setting a new lap record for electric vehicles at the Interlagos circuit in São Paulo. On February 5, 2025, professional driver Felipe Nasr, known for his three-time IMSA championship wins and victories at the 24 Hours of Daytona, clocked an impressive time of 1:42.1 minutes on the challenging 2.67-mile track. This performance not only surpassed the previous record set by the Taycan Turbo S but also outperformed the 911 Turbo S's time. The achievement highlights the exceptional capabilities of the Taycan Turbo GT and underscores Porsche's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle performance.

Interlagos, officially named Autodrome José Carlos Pace, is renowned for its technical sections and elevation changes, making it a formidable challenge for any driver. The circuit has witnessed many historic moments, including the triumphs of Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. For Porsche, this record-breaking event was strategically timed to coincide with the debut of the Taycan Turbo GT in Brazil. CEO of Porsche Brazil, Peter Vogel, emphasized that the car's outstanding performance was aimed at showcasing the strengths of the new Taycan model series.

Felipe Nasr, who recently won the 24 Hours of Daytona, expressed his admiration for the Taycan Turbo GT's performance. "The car's acceleration and overall balance were truly remarkable," he remarked. "The precision in slow corners and stability under heavy braking made it a joy to drive." Nasr will continue to compete in the upcoming 12 Hours of Sebring IMSA race in March, further demonstrating the versatility and endurance of Porsche's electric models.

Porsche has been consistently proving the motorsport credentials of the Taycan Turbo GT. Since May 2024, it has served as the safety car in Formula E races, driven by Bruno Correia. Equipped with advanced safety features and high-tech communication systems, the Taycan Turbo GT ensures safety and efficiency during races. Additionally, the Taycan model line has set records on various tracks worldwide, including WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and the Nürburgring Nordschleife. In January 2025, Porsche Experience instructor Jens Richter even set a record for the longest continuous drift on ice using a Taycan GTS, covering over 10 miles.

The Taycan Turbo GT, featuring a powerful silicon carbide pulse inverter and Attack Mode for short bursts of increased power, represents the pinnacle of Porsche's electric sedan lineup. Weighing up to 157 lbs less than the Taycan Turbo S, thanks to lightweight construction and carbon-fiber components, the Taycan Turbo GT with Weissach package is optimized for track performance. Standard Porsche Active Ride suspension ensures exceptional handling and road connection, making it a formidable contender in both racing and everyday driving scenarios.

This latest achievement at Interlagos exemplifies Porsche's dedication to innovation and excellence in electric vehicle technology. The Taycan Turbo GT's record-breaking performance not only highlights its superior capabilities but also sets a new standard for electric cars in the motorsport arena. As Porsche continues to expand its presence globally, the Taycan Turbo GT stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering cutting-edge performance and sustainability.

A United Kingdom-based enterprise is set to redefine the electric vehicle and battery storage sectors with an innovative approach that promises to enhance residual value and reduce reliance on new battery production. By repurposing used EV batteries as energy storage systems, this strategy could support charging hubs, microgrids, and renewable energy integration.

Empowering a Greener Future Through Smart Battery Repurposing

The Declining Value of Electric Vehicles

The market dynamics surrounding electric vehicles (EVs) have seen significant shifts over recent years. Resale values for these eco-friendly machines have plummeted by nearly half within just two years, according to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association. This decline poses challenges for the leasing sector, where residual value plays a pivotal role in determining the financial health of lease agreements.Residual value serves as a critical benchmark for pricing vehicles at the end of their lease terms. When EVs retain higher residual values, it bolsters the stability and profitability of the leasing market. However, with current trends showing a steep drop in these values, stakeholders are seeking solutions to mitigate the financial impact.

Innovative Solutions from Connected Energy

Enter Connected Energy, a company founded in 2013 and headquartered in Newcastle upon Tyne. This organization has developed a groundbreaking method to address the issue of declining EV residual values while promoting sustainability. The core of their strategy involves repurposing used EV batteries as stationary energy storage units.Even after reaching the end of their life cycles, EV batteries maintain approximately 80% of their initial capacity. Rather than discarding these valuable assets, Connected Energy aims to harness their remaining potential. By transitioning these batteries into energy storage platforms, they can be utilized for various applications, including supporting EV charging stations and capturing excess solar power.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The economic advantages of this approach are substantial. According to Chief Operating Officer Alex Charr, each repurposed EV battery has the potential to generate thousands of euros in revenue. This additional income stream benefits battery manufacturers, who can reduce the need for producing new batteries and tackle the costly and energy-intensive process of recycling.Moreover, this innovation contributes significantly to environmental conservation. Transportation remains one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 26% of total emissions in the U.K. in 2021. By extending the lifespan of EV batteries and reducing the demand for new ones, Connected Energy's solution helps lower carbon footprints and supports decarbonization efforts.

Scaling Up for Widespread Impact

Connected Energy operates internationally, collaborating with industry giants like Volvo and Caterpillar. Their technical center in Hethel, Norfolk, serves as a hub for developing and implementing circular economy solutions. Data from the company indicates that the principles behind repurposing EV batteries are scalable, opening up vast opportunities for large-scale energy storage projects.These initiatives not only provide financial returns but also foster the maturation of the battery recycling industry. As costs decrease and efficiencies improve, the overall sustainability of the global EV industry stands to gain. Leasing companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can introduce new revenue streams, directly enhancing the intrinsic value of used EVs and addressing the issue of falling residual values.

Driving Change Toward a Circular Economy

Ultimately, Connected Energy's approach represents a significant step toward disrupting the throwaway economy. By giving used EV batteries a second life, this strategy promotes a more sustainable and economically viable future. It paves the way for a circular economy where resources are maximized, waste is minimized, and environmental impact is reduced.Through innovative thinking and strategic partnerships, Connected Energy is leading the charge in transforming how we perceive and utilize EV batteries. This shift not only benefits the automotive and energy storage industries but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable planet.