New Toyota Electric Car Debuts This Year, Affordable bZ4X Version

KatadataOTO – Toyota is preparing the latest version of the C-HR electric car, which is touted as an Electric Vehicle (EV) with a competitive price.

The Toyota C-HR was previously a hybrid car. However, the manufacturer has transformed the model into an EV as a strategy amidst tight competition.

The weakening trend of electric cars in the global market has prompted several manufacturers, including Toyota, to introduce new products that can reach more consumers.

Interestingly, the marketing strategy for the Toyota C-HR EV differs from their other electric car lines. In some countries, the model is rumored to be available in a base variant option with the most competitive price, using a smaller capacity battery.

Photo: Toyota

“The European version of the C-HR EV includes a front-wheel-drive type and uses a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery,” wrote an Insideevs report, quoted on Tuesday (06/01).

The price of LFP batteries is generally considered cheaper than Lithium-Ion. This is believed to play a role in making the C-HR's price in the market more competitive.

It should be noted that at its introduction, Toyota stated the battery material used for the C-HR was Lithium-Ion with capacity options of 57.7 kWh or 77 kWh.

After being introduced in Europe, the Toyota C-HR EV will also be marketed in various other countries gradually starting in 2026.

The Toyota C-HR EV is scheduled to arrive in the Australian market next year, specifically in mid-2027.

For your information, the Toyota C-HR EV is built on the same TNGA platform as the bZ4X. Therefore, its specifications are said to be not much different.

However, the main difference lies in the cabin space. The Toyota bZ4X is said to have a more spacious interior than the C-HR.

Photo: Toyota

If it comes to Indonesia, the Toyota C-HR will add to the variety of electric-powered Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) marketed by PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM).

Currently, Toyota has two electric car models for consumers, namely the bZ4X and the Urban Cruiser. 

The bZ4X has started to be locally assembled as part of its long-term commitment. The model's price was finally able to be pushed below IDR 1 billion thanks to the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) decision.