Toyota Motor (NYSE:TM) on Tuesday revealed a redesigned version of its sole all-electric vehicle in the U.S., with a simplified name and notable increases in EV technologies and capabilities.
The new name for the EV for the 2026 model year is the “bZ,” cut down from the “bZ4X.” Toyota says the name change is to simplify it for customers, but it’s also likely a move to distance the updated model from its predecessor.
The bZX4 received lackluster reviews, including from Motor Trend, which panned the vehicle as a compliance car. The vehicle also was recalled shortly after its launch for a problem in which its wheels could detach, leading to embarrassing headlines for the company that’s known for its reliability.
Toyota appears to address many concerns of the first-generation EV with the 2026 model year updates, including a 25% increase in EV range, up to 50% improvement in horsepower and fast-charging capabilities.
Toyota said the bZ is scheduled to begin arriving in U.S. showrooms from its Japanese production plant during the second half of this year. It declined to release future pricing of the car, which currently ranges from roughly $37,000 to $42,000, depending on the model.
TM shares began Tuesday’s session down seven cents to $192.22.
