Toyota Launches Its Cheapest EV in China, the bZ3X, Starting at Just $15,000
- evautos2
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Toyota has officially launched its cheapest electric vehicle (EV) in China, and it’s already making waves. The new Toyota bZ3X has made an immediate impact, garnering over 10,000 pre-orders within just one hour of its release. This electric SUV is priced to shake up the market, starting at only ¥109,800 (roughly $15,000), making it one of the most affordable EVs in the country.
Meet the Toyota bZ3X: The Latest Addition to the EV Market
On March 6, 2025, Toyota’s joint venture with GAC (GAC-Toyota) unveiled the bZ3X — the brand’s first fully electric SUV priced at the 100,000 yuan (roughly $15,000) mark. This makes it not only the most affordable EV Toyota has introduced but also a serious contender in China’s highly competitive electric vehicle market, dominated by local giants like BYD.
After opening pre-orders in December 2024, the bZ3X instantly caught the public’s attention, with over 10,000 ordersflooding in within the first hour of its official launch. The rush was so overwhelming that Toyota’s server crashed due to the demand. For a company traditionally known for its conservative approach to electric vehicles, this is a major step forward in Toyota’s strategy to compete in China, the world’s largest EV market.
Two Models, One Affordable Price
The bZ3X comes in two versions: one with advanced smart driving technology and another with more traditional features.
Base Model: Starting at ¥109,800 ($15,000), the entry-level version features five trim options and offers a range of 430 km (267 miles) on a 50.03 kWh LFP battery.
Smart Driving Model: Starting at ¥149,800 ($20,500), this model includes full-scenario smart driving tech, which Toyota claims is the most advanced in its class. This version offers a range of 610 km (379 miles), powered by a 67.92 kWh LFP battery.
For the tech-savvy and range-conscious, the top-tier “610 Max” trim offers a range of 610 km and comes at ¥159,800($22,000).
Impressive Features and Interior
The bZ3X is more than just an affordable EV. It boasts a host of premium features that elevate the driving experience. Inside, the cabin is designed to be a “mobile space that is comfortable as home,” with front and rear seats that fold down, creating up to 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) of flat space.
The SUV also comes equipped with a 14.6-inch infotainment screen with voice recognition, an 8.8-inch driver display, and a two-spoke multifunction steering wheel, all adding to its futuristic appeal.
In terms of size, the bZ3X measures 4,600 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,645 mm in height, making it comparable to BYD’s Yuan Plus (Atto 3), which is slightly smaller but priced similarly, starting at ¥115,800 ($16,000).
Advanced Driving Technology
One of the standout features of the bZ3X is its Momenta 5.0 Intelligent Driving System. Powered by NVIDIA Drive AGX Orin X, this system offers 25 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features, such as:
Parallel parking
Remote control parking
High-speed pilot
Light traffic assist
Blind spot monitoring
Toyota claims that the bZ3X will continuously improve its intelligent driving features over time, getting smarter with use, thanks to its sophisticated AI-powered system.
Click the image to view the offer in Amazon:
A Serious Challenge to BYD and Local Competitors
The bZ3X has entered the market at an opportune moment. With the electric SUV market booming in China, Toyota is looking to directly challenge BYD, which has been a dominant force in this sector with models like the Yuan Plus (Atto 3). The bZ3X's competitive pricing and advanced tech could make it a serious contender in a market where affordability and innovation are key.
In the global EV race, Toyota’s decision to launch an affordable electric SUV in China signals its intent to scale up its electric offerings. Whether the bZ3X will expand to other regions remains to be seen, but if it does, it could push the industry further toward accessible, sustainable mobility.
Final Thoughts: Would You Buy One?
At around $15,000 for the base model, the Toyota bZ3X makes electric driving more accessible than ever before. For those looking for a budget-friendly EV with solid performance, decent range, and advanced features, this is an attractive option. But would you buy one? Let us know what you think of Toyota’s new electric SUV and whether it would be your choice for an affordable, eco-friendly ride.
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