Toyota unveiled its latest electric model, the bZ7, at the Shanghai Auto Show, which is the result of a collaboration with GAC and features Huawei HarmonyOS.
The Toyota bZ7 is the latest addition to the “Beyond Zero” (bZ) series and is an electric sedan developed specifically for the Chinese market. At more than five meters (about 200 inches) long, it exceeds the size of the Camry and ranks among the largest sedans in its segment. The model is the result of a collaboration between Toyota and Chinese partner GAC and includes the latest technology, such as Huawei HarmonyOS for the infotainment system.
Toyota bZ7 – Design and interior – the beauty of an aerodynamic sedan with minimal details
The exterior of the Toyota bZ7 combines elements of the Prius and Crown, with distinctive split headlights and a roof-mounted LIDAR sensor that hints at advanced driver assistance features. The interior features white perforated leather, wood trim and ambient lighting, creating a premium atmosphere. Despite the large central display, physical buttons for basic functions are also retained.
Toyota bZ7: Technical specifications
Although Toyota has not yet revealed all the technical details, it is known that it will Toyota bZ7 equipped with the latest intelligent technology suitable for the leading electric vehicle model in the Chinese market. Based on previous models in the bZ series, we can expect a battery with a capacity of between 70 and 80 kWh and a range of around 500 km (310 miles). Charging will probably be possible with a power of up to 150 kW, which allows for a fast charge of up to 80 % in around 30 minutes. It is enough that it currently represents the market standard in its price segment.
Toyota bZ7: Technology and Connectivity
Toyota bZ7 is not just another electric sedan in the line, but demonstrates a new dimension of collaboration between the automotive and technology industries. It is the first model to be fully integrated with the operating system Huawei HarmonyOS, which represents a significant leap in the user experience. HarmonyOS enables seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the user’s other smart devices – from smartphones to tablets, wearables and even smart home appliances. Everything is connected into a single ecosystem, meaning the driver can check the vehicle’s battery status, pre-heat the interior or set up navigation for the commute from the comfort of their own kitchen.
Huawei is also bringing its expertise in artificial intelligence and real-time data processing to the vehicle. The built-in LIDAR sensor is just the tip of the iceberg, as the technology enables highly accurate sensing of the vehicle’s surroundings, opening the door to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and, in the future, even semi-autonomous or autonomous driving. Huawei is thus confirming its status as a key player in the development of smart mobility that goes beyond just mobile phones – its software, hardware and connectivity capabilities are now literally powering cars.
Despite political and market restrictions outside of China, Huawei seems to be successfully solidifying its position at home as a technological innovator, not just a follower, but a standard for the future of mobility. In the Toyota bZ7, this is not just a marketing gimmick, but real functionality that promises a new way of interacting between humans and machines.
Conclusion; it won't be in the EU – is Huawei to blame?
Toyota bZ7 represents a significant step in the development of electric vehicles specifically tailored for the Chinese market. By combining Japanese quality and Chinese technological innovation, it offers a vehicle that competes with models such as Tesla Model 3, BYD Han and Xiaomi SU7Although the price is not yet known, we can expect it to be based on the positioning. bZ7 slightly more expensive than the bZ3 model, which sells for around $23,200 in China (in the EU it would be under €50,000). With sales expected to start next year, it will be interesting to see how it performs. bZ7 established itself in the competitive electric sedan market.
But despite all the innovations and impressive technical arsenal, the bZ7 will not be making its way onto European or American roads for the time being. The main reason? Perhaps Huawei. The presence of this Chinese technology giant, which is often the target of geopolitical tensions and sanctions in the Western world, could pose too great an obstacle to homologating the vehicle outside of China. Toyota is clearly aware that technology that shines at home raises doubts elsewhere in the world – and perhaps too many bureaucratic complications.
