SHANGHAI (CHATNEWSTV) — Toyota and its luxury arm Lexus unveiled two new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) at Auto Shanghai 2025 on Wednesday, reinforcing the automaker’s commitment to a “multi-pathway” strategy as it accelerates toward carbon neutrality in the world’s largest auto market.
The all-new Toyota bZ7, a full-size electric sedan, and a fully electric Lexus ES were introduced as part of a push to broaden electric offerings in China, where BEVs make up a rapidly growing share of new car sales.
“China leads the world in vehicle electrification,” said a Toyota spokesperson at the unveiling. “Our new BEVs are built specifically with the needs of Chinese customers in mind.”
bZ7: A Local Flagship EV
Developed in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group, Guangzhou Toyota Motor, and Toyota’s local R&D center, the bZ7 measures over five meters in length and is designed as a flagship BEV sedan for China. The model incorporates Toyota’s signature reliability with China’s cutting-edge EV and digital technologies.
The vehicle, still in its pre-commercial phase, is expected to launch within a year and will feature the brand’s latest intelligent cockpit and driving systems.
“This is a car that brings together the best of both worlds — Toyota’s legacy of quality and China’s innovation in smart mobility,” said an executive from Toyota’s Chinese development team.
Lexus ES: Next-Gen Luxury Electrified
The new Lexus ES marks the brand’s first next-generation electric sedan, following the UX and RZ BEVs. Available in both BEV and hybrid (HEV) trims, the ES aims to elevate Lexus’s quiet luxury and ride comfort with new electrification technology and an expanded rear seating layout.
Inspired by the LF-ZC concept, the new ES showcases Lexus’s evolving design language and is aimed at delivering a “refined and immersive interior experience,” according to Lexus.
Toyota’s Multi-Pathway Approach
The launches are part of Toyota’s broader strategy to offer region-specific powertrains — including BEVs, hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) — to meet different global demands.
“Carbon neutrality will not come from a one-size-fits-all solution,” the company said in a statement. “We’re committed to making ever-better cars for every market and every customer.”
With the bZ7 and new ES, Toyota adds momentum to its electrification campaign in China, signaling stronger local collaborations and a deepening footprint in one of the most competitive EV landscapes in the world.
