Electric car.
The Shift to Electric Vehicles in Denmark
In 2024, Denmark is witnessing a rapid transition from gasoline and diesel to
electric vehicles (EVs). By June 2024, EV sales in Denmark reached an
impressive 9,941 units, marking a 57% increase compared to the same period
last year. This surge in EV adoption is complemented by a significant rise in
cars equipped with driver assistance systems, which are gradually moving
towards self-driving capabilities.
bZ4X AWD
This trend, along with personal experiences with a hybrid Toyota Yaris equipped with a full assistant package, has influenced the decision to purchase a Toyota bZ4X Executive AWD model 2025 with steer-by-wire (SbW) when it hits the Danish market in early 2025. The model is expected to feature two identical 80 kW motors and a 480 kg battery providing 64 kWh net and 71.4 kWh gross capacity. The difference acts as a buffer to prevent complete discharge, thus protecting the battery.
A sectional drawing of the bodywork shows the electric drivetrain and a
possible utilization of the trunk space.
|
| The trunk offers convenient space and access for rolling walkers. |
Steer-by-Wire (SbW)
Toyota has successfully obtained approval for a vehicle equipped with
steer-by-wire (SbW), eliminating the traditional steering column, and branding
it as 'One Motion Grip.' The bZ4X and its sister model, the Lexus RZ 450e, are
set to be the first versions to feature this technology in the market.
According to Lexus Denmark's website, SbW will be available at the beginning
of 2025. While Toyota has not officially announced the launch date for the
Danish market, a dealer anticipates it will coincide with the Lexus
release. The other sister - or triplet - Subaru Solterra has received an
almost rectangular steering wheel, but without Steer-by-Wire (SbW).
|
|
The SbW option. The system allows up to 200 degrees of steering wheel
movement, with the amount of movement in the front wheels varying
depending on the vehicle’s speed The center console provides ample space, compensating for the lack of a glove compartment. The glove compartment was removed to make room for an electric radiant heater. |
Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
From July 7, 2024, several new safety regulations for cars have become
mandatory under the EU's General Safety Regulation II (GSR II). Here are the
key requirements and official abbreviations (in parentheses).
1. **Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS)**: This system monitors the
road ahead and automatically applies the brakes in emergency situations to
prevent collisions.
2. **Alcohol Interlock Installation Facilitation (AIIF)**: This facilitates
the installation of alcohol interlock devices, which prevent the vehicle
from starting if the driver is over the legal alcohol limit
3. **Blind Spot Information System (BSIS)**: Alerts the driver to vehicles
in the blind spots, especially when turning, to avoid collisions with other
road users.
4. **Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning (DDAW)**: Monitors signs of
driver fatigue or distraction and provides warnings to enhance driver
alertness and safety
5. **Event Data Recorder (EDR)**: Records data before, during, and after a
collision to assist in accident analysis and enhance safety measures.
6. **Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA)**: Helps drivers maintain safe
speeds by providing real-time feedback and preventing them from exceeding
speed limits.
7. **Reversing Detection (REV)**: Uses cameras and sensors to alert drivers
to obstacles behind the vehicle, improving safety while reversing.
8. **Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)**: Monitors tyre pressure in
real time and alerts the driver to any pressure loss, ensuring timely
maintenance and enhanced safety.
9. **Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)**: Activates hazard lights during emergency
braking to alert other drivers and potentially prevent follow-on collisions.
10. **Cybersecurity Management System (CS)**: Requires a certified
cybersecurity protocol to protect the vehicle's electronic systems from
cyber threats throughout its lifecycle.
For the 2025 model of the Toyota bZ4X, Toyota is expected to include
several advanced, non-mandatory driver assistance and convenience features
beyond the legally required ones. Here are some of the additional systems
and technologies that might be included:
1. **Steer-by-Wire System**: This system replaces the mechanical
connection between the steering wheel and the wheels with electronic
controls, providing more precise steering and reducing physical feedback
from road imperfections.
2. **One Motion Grip**: Part of the steer-by-wire system, this feature
allows for smoother and easier steering control, eliminating the need for
hand-over-hand turning and providing better control and comfort.
3. **Panoramic Roof**: Available for increased natural light and a more
spacious cabin feel
4. **Heat Pump System**: For efficient heating and cooling, ensuring
minimal energy use and maintaining the vehicle's range in various weather
conditions.
5. **Radiant Heating**: Provides infra-red heating for the driver and
front passenger, enhancing comfort in colder climates by warming lower
legs and feet.
6. **Bird’s Eye View Camera**: Includes a perimeter scan, 360-degree
overhead view, and curb view for enhanced situational awareness during
low-speed maneuvers and reversing.
7. **Intelligent Throttle with Slip Suppression**: Helps maintain control
on wet and slippery roads by adjusting throttle response to prevent wheel
slip.
8. **Drive Connect**: An advanced multimedia system that responds to voice
commands and integrates seamlessly with navigation and entertainment
systems.
9. **Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates**: Ensures that the vehicle’s software is
always up to date without requiring a visit to the dealership.
10. **Solar Panel Roof**: Optional feature that generates electricity to
charge the vehicle's battery, potentially adding significant range over a
year.
These features are aimed at enhancing comfort, convenience, and safety,
making the Toyota bZ4X a competitive choice in the electric vehicle
market.
Performance
With the BZ4X, Toyota has designed a crossover Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) that offers easy entry, comfortable driving characteristics, and a trunk capacity of 452 liters, meeting our needs. The choice of battery size and the entire drivetrain is also well-considered. With a net 64 kWh of energy available and a typical consumption of 0.2 kWh/km, one can expect a range of 320 km per charge – about half that of a comparable hybrid, but sufficient for our use. Toyota is developing more energy-dense batteries, but they will likely not be available until the 2028 model.
Toyota Charging Network. The bZ4X is equipped with a 3-phase 16A
charging system with a maximum of 43 kW and DC fast charging capabilities
ranging from 50 to 150 kW. The Toyota Charging Network is a service that
provides easy and convenient access to public charging infrastructure for
electric vehicles (EVs). With this network, Toyota customers can access
public charging stations from different operators using just one contract.
Charging Stations. There are currently over 57,000 public charging
stations supporting Level 2 and DC fast charging. Just pull up, plug in, and
charge up! Toyota bZ4X owners get one year of unlimited complimentary
charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations
nationwide.
DC Fast Charging (Level 3)These chargers provide rapid charging for longer trips. They're typically
found along highways and major routes. Toyota is working with ChargePoint
and EVgo (US only) to expand access to DC fast chargers.
Renewable Energy: Toyota offers the Clean Assist program, allowing eligible EV owners to offset their vehicle charging with
100% renewable energy, regardless of where they plug in.
|
| The black plastic fenders are less noticeable when the entire car is black. |
eAxle.
The eAxle has been significantly downsized, including a built-in structure that incorporates an inverter into the transaxle, a downsized motor, and the shortened distance between the shafts by adopting an output shaft. The eAxle (1XM model e-Axle) to be mounted in the front of the vehicle has a reduced longitudinal length, and the one to be mounted in the rear (1YM model e-Axles) has a reduced height, helping expand the passenger and luggage compartment spaces.Links
Wikipedia.
Link.
Toyotas erstes eigenentwickeltes Elektroauto will die Konkurrenz mit üppiger Reichweite und großzügigen Garantien überholen. Link
Toyota Newsroom April 12, 2022. The Future is Now: Toyota Launches
All-New bZ4X SUV Battery-Electric Vehicle -
Link.
Toyota Europe Newsroom. 14 September 2023. Toyota’s advanced battery technology roadmap. Link
Electric Vehicle Knowledge Exchange (EVKX) EV-database. Toyota bZ4X
AWD description - Toyota bZ4X AWD
range & consumption
- Toyota bZ4X AWD
charging curve & performance - Toyota bZ4X AWD
specifications - Toyota bZ4X AWD
gallery
- Toyota bZ4X AWD
reviews.
Kommentarer
Send en kommentar