Toyota Australia’s first electric car, the bZ4X SUV, is now in the hands of its first owner following a customer handover event in the nation’s capital (and it wasn’t Barry).
The first example of Toyota’s all-electric SUV – an all-wheel-drive bZ4X – was delivered to Canberra couple Ali and Nafiseh Lashkari, with Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley and bZ4X Chief Engineer Masaya Uchiyama present at Canberra Toyota to hand over the new vehicle to the Lashkaris.
The all-new bZ4X draws on Toyota’s decades-long expertise in hybrid-electric powertrain technology to deliver a vehicle with sharp performance, zero tailpipe emissions and signature Toyota durability.
As a current Toyota hybrid owner, Mr Lashkari said he wanted to wait until Toyota released its first EV before making the transition to full-electric power.
“This is about choosing the car that aligns with my values, and this car basically aligns with all the vision and values I was looking for,” Mr Lashkari said.
“I wanted a sustainable solution which is an electric car, and I was looking for a manufacturer to give me the confidence that this car will work for me for a long time, so I was happy to wait for Toyota to bring this car to market.
“I wanted to have the opportunity to buy a Toyota bZ4X, because as I mentioned, I am a loyal customer to Toyota due to good experiences and my previous purchases.”
Mr Lashkari wanted to express gratitude in particular to Canberra Toyota – Phillip General Manager Amir Hayati, who he said provided invaluable support in securing the purchase of the first bZ4X.
The Lashkaris chose the all-wheel-drive bZ4X variant in part thanks its ability to travel off-road, facilitated by the X-Mode off-road traction control system which offers two specialised modes to navigate a range of terrain.
Mr Lashkari’s experience as an owner of a Camry and RAV4 hybrid gave him assurance of the quality and service that comes with Toyota ownership and was excited to become an EV owner for the first time.
He plans to use the bZ4X primarily for daily use including trips to and from his job where he works as a civil engineer, going to the shops and weekend adventures with family, with plans to charge the vehicle at home.
At the event, Mr Hanley said the launch of the bZ4X marked the start of an exciting new chapter in Toyota’s history.
“Toyota has paved the way with hybrid-electric vehicles over many years, introducing fuel-saving technology to countless Australian homes,” Mr Hanley said.
“The introduction of the bZ4X shows Toyota’s commitment to offering customers a broad range of powertrain technologies including hybrid, battery electric and fuel-cell electric, ensuring no-one is left behind on the path towards decarbonisation.
“This marks an exciting time for Toyota, as the first of many battery-electric vehicles to be introduced in years to come.”
The two-variant bZ4X range is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, paired to a compact and lightweight 71.4kWh battery capable of 150kW DC charging.
The bZ4X line-up is available in Australia priced from $66,000 plus on-road cost for the front-wheel-drive grade.
