Toyota Unveils Electric Vehicles at Kenshiki Forum 2025: A Shift Towards Electrification

The Toyota Kenshiki Forum 2025 showcased a strong emphasis on electric vehicles, signaling a significant shift in the company's strategy toward electrification. Despite maintaining an official stance on a multi-powertrain strategy that includes hybrids and fuel cell vehicles, Toyota's actions suggest a pivot towards battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This annual event, held in Brussels, highlighted new model introductions along with updates to existing electric offerings, notably the Toyota bZ4X, as the automaker strives to strengthen its market presence in Europe.

One of the standout announcements was the world premiere of the Toyota C-HR+, an all-electric SUV measuring 4.52 meters in length, positioning it between the Urban Cruiser at 4.29 meters and the bZ4X at 4.69 meters. Although it shares a name with the hybrid C-HR, the C-HR+ is distinct, designed to cater specifically to the electric vehicle market. Toyota has yet to disclose its width and height, but it features a wheelbase of 2.75 meters and a cargo capacity of at least 416 liters.

Customers can select from two battery configurations. The base model, equipped with front-wheel drive and a motor output of 123 kW, includes a 57.7 kWh battery. There are also two versions with larger 77 kWh batteries: one with front-wheel drive and 165 kW of power, and another with all-wheel drive delivering 252 kW. The top variant is expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, with a projected range of up to 600 km, likely applicable to the front-wheel drive model with the larger battery.

Historically, Toyota faced criticism for the lackluster rollout of its electric vehicles. The Lexus UX 300e, for instance, debuted with the now-obsolete Chademo connector instead of the more widely accepted CCS (Combined Charging System) for fast DC charging. However, Toyota has now phased out Chademo. The C-HR+ will charge at a standard rate of 11 kW (three-phase) as well as 22 kW in its premium trim. While the maximum DC charging capacity is limited to 150 kW, enhancements such as a manual or automatic preconditioning feature for the traction battery, along with standard heated seats, steering wheel, and windshield, indicate a move towards improved user experience. Pricing details remain undisclosed, but deliveries are slated to commence in early 2026.

The bZ4X also received attention at the forum, having been the top-selling vehicle in Norway in February. This model, which has undergone significant upgrades since its 2022 introduction, will be available in an updated form starting in the fourth quarter of 2025. Initial versions of the bZ4X only allowed single-phase AC charging and had limitations on DC charging rates. The recent updates have rectified many of these issues, allowing for three-phase AC charging at 11 kW and improving DC charging capabilities. The bZ4X will now offer a new base version with a 57.7 kWh battery and a motor output of 123 kW. Additionally, a larger battery option of 73.1 kWh will provide choices for both front and all-wheel drive configurations.

Another notable introduction is the Toyota Urban Cruiser, an important electric model for the brand this year. It features a longer wheelbase than the popular Yaris Cross, offering a spacious interior designed for comfort and utility. Competing against models like the VW ID.3 and Kia EV3, the Urban Cruiser will be produced in India and is closely related to the Suzuki e-Vitara. It will come with two battery options of 49 kWh and 61 kWh, providing motor outputs of 106 kW and 128 kW, respectively. The anticipated range varies, with front-wheel drive versions achieving around 300 km to 400 km, while all-wheel drive configurations are expected to provide about 350 km. The vehicle employs robust and cost-effective LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) cells, ensuring reliability with a ten-year or one million-kilometer warranty on battery health.

In summary, while Toyota continues to officially endorse a multi-powertrain strategy, the developments presented at the Kenshiki Forum illustrate a clear commitment to expanding their electric vehicle lineup. The introduction of features such as heat pumps and preconditioning systems reflects the company's efforts to adapt to consumer demands and maintain its reputation for quality and dependability in the evolving automotive landscape.