On September 10, the GAC-Toyota joint venture released the official images of its upcoming bZ7 pure electric sedan, which will debut later this year. The new car boasts a length of over 5.1 meters, and features Huawei’s HarmonyOS cockpit and electric drive system. It is also expected to be the first vehicle to be integrated into Xiaomi’s smart ecosystem.
Currently, the bZ series consist of the bZ3X and bZ4X models.
In June of this year, GAC-Toyota announced partnerships with Huawei, Momenta, and Xiaomi. The bZ7 will be the first vehicle to integrate into Xiaomi’s “Human x Car x Home” smart ecosystem that connects personal devices, smart home products, and cars. Users will be able to perform actions such as remotely control the air conditioner at home from the cockpit control screen. In the front, the closed face adopts a C-shaped headlight design. A lidar is installed on the roof, which will support Momenta’s advanced driving assistance solution.
From the side, the bZ7 has a fastback design, combined with a long triangular quarter glass, frameless doors, semi-hidden door handles, multi-spoke rims with tire specification of 255/40R21, and a rear ducktail.
Positioned as a medium-to-large sedan, the GAC-Toyota bZ7 measures 5130/1965/1506 mm (l/w/h), with a wheelbase of 3020 mm. The curb weight is 2,275 kg. Power comes from an electric motor supplied by Huawei with a maximum power of 207 kW (278 hp) and a top speed of 180 km/h, paired with lithium iron phosphate battery from CALB-Tech. The specific battery capacity and range information have not yet been announced. Inside the cabin, there is a three-spoke steering wheel, a trapezoidal instrument panel, a central control screen, ambient lighting, and wireless charging for mobile phone. The detailed screen dimensions and configuration specifications are still pending the official announcement.
In another news Toyota Launches Next-Generation New Mobility e-Palette
e-Palette features a spacious interior and large windows that create a sense of openness. It is designed not only as a means of transportation, but also to support a variety of mobility services with a single vehicle, such as a mobile store or service space. It offers new mobility experiences through multi-use applications inspired by the creative ideas of customers while also transforming the cityscape with its highly refined exterior design.
Going forward, Toyota will introduce the e-Palette in TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO and surrounding areas as well as Toyota Woven City, where it will be used for transportation services and as a mobile store for various goods, among other initiatives. In addition, Toyota will carry out automated driving demonstrations in collaboration with dealerships, municipalities, and automated driving partners in certain regions, aiming to launch vehicles equipped with Level 4 automated driving systems to the market during fiscal year 2027.
Toyota will expand the possibilities of mobility aiming to achieve a mobility society where everyone enjoys the freedom to move and where mobility has the power to move people emotionally as well as physically.
- Providing Multi-Use Vehicle Applications
Equipping a variety of devices will allow it to serve different purposes throughout the day by equipping various devices. For example, it can be used as a shuttle bus in the morning and evening while operating as a store during the day while it charges.
The spacious interior space allows for customization to support even more diverse applications. For example, by installing remote communication or audio equipment, it can be used as an entertainment vehicle where passengers on the move can enjoy realistic sports viewing or immersive sightseeing experiences
- Uses and Accessibility-Conscious Design
Low floor and wide sliding doors allow for quick boarding and exit. Height adjustment functions enable a low floor, while the electric ramp enables wheelchair users to board and exit independently without assistance at a sidewalk height of 15 cm. Optional equipment such as a one-touch fastening device for wheelchairs is also available.
- Support for Automated Driving Prioritizing Safety and Security
e-Palette is capable of supporting an automated driving system that conforms to Level 2 automated driving specifications. Toyota will continue to implement improved functions with the aim of launching vehicles equipped with Level 4 automated driving systems to the market during fiscal year 2027.
e-Palette is capable of supporting automated driving by equipping e-Palette with an automated driving system developped by various companies (ADK: Automated Driving Kit; automated driving control hardware and software, sensors such as cameras and LiDAR, etc.) that are compatible with Toyota’s vehicle control interface (VCI: Vehicle Control Interface).
It features standardized connections between the automated driving system and vehicle control systems. Redundant systems are installed to ensure robustness and reliability. This automated driving system integration contributes to safe and secure driving, achieving Toyota’s vision of automated driving.
Seamless collaboration with operations management systems also ensures smooth automated driving operations.
- Advanced Equipment
The vehicle has implemented a Steer-by-Wire System, providing a next-generation steering feel while reducing steering input for the driver and alleviating driving burden. A uniquely-shaped steering wheel has been adopted to create an advanced cockpit.
The vehicle is equipped with digital signage both inside and outside that can display information to match usage. The signage software is editable by customers to allow them to share desired information.
In addition to safe-exit assistance, a cabin monitoring system supports door operation safety by monitoring the door surroundings.
- Charging and Power Supply Functions
e-Palette features both standard and rapid charging. It can also supply power when stationary, enabling use as an emergency power source during disasters.
In another news Although it may not seem like it, the current generation of the Toyota Corolla has already been on the market for six years. Despite a light facelift in certain markets for 2025, the compact sedan’s age is starting to show. With no all-new generation in sight, Toyota is preparing yet another update for the current platform, at least in the Chinese market.
This is evident in images from the latest round of approvals released by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), where the sedan appears under the name ‘Corolla Allion.’ The most notable change is at the front, which now features Toyota’s new design language—already seen on the latest Prius and the recent RAV4.
The headlights have a new split arrangement. The upper section includes a C-shaped outline with a continuous LED strip in the center. The high and low beams are now positioned at the outer edges of the bumper, framed by black accents. Below, a dark horizontal grille and a more prominent front spoiler complete the refreshed look.
On the sides, changes are minimal and mainly limited to redesigned wheels. At the rear, the taillights feature a new internal layout and are now connected by an illuminated strip across the center, while the bumper retains its familiar design.
As is typical with Chinese regulatory filings, there are no interior images. It remains unclear whether Toyota will retain the current dashboard—largely unchanged since this generation’s debut—or introduce an update inspired by the new RAV4, which features cleaner lines and a larger infotainment display.
Under the hood, at least for the Chinese market, the engine options mirror those offered in other markets: a full hybrid 1.8-liter and a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine. The hybrid setup produces up to 98 horsepower and uses a nickel-cobalt-manganese battery, while the 2.0-liter engine delivers 171 horsepower.
It’s still unclear if this particular facelift is destined for the US, but we’ll know in due time.