Toyota was once one of the leading companies in sustainable development and eco-friendly mobility. Toyota's 'Pirus' was the topmost car in sustainability for decades. The company introduced its hydrogen-powered cars like 'Mirai.' However, the Japanese manufacturer has always been reluctant to adopt battery-electric architecture.
The status quo is set to change as Toyota has unveiled its first battery-electric car, named Toyota bZ4X. The cross-over-shaped vehicle has high relevance for the Electric Car Market as it comes with a steer-by-wire system. Further, it consists of features that are futuristic while being practical as well.
The new model has a nearly 4.7 meters long 5-seater cross-over. Beneath its floors is a 71.4 kWh battery that can be supplied to the front or possibly all four wheels. The FWD (Front-Drive Version) won't be a positive factor in snow regions for obvious reasons. However, It has a WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) range of roughly 500 kilometres and weighs 1.920 kg (85 kg lighter). Furthermore, 4WD bZ4X is capable of going about 460 km while it is in-between charges.
Toyota bZ4X may not be a sports car, but it is very spacious. This is because batteries are hidden under the floor, and there are no gearboxes or bulky engines inside. The car's interior aims towards calming its users, and several features can be connected with smartphones to make the experience even better. The driver will have sufficient knee room in the car as the makers have tried to avoid all mechanical links between the steering wheel and the front wheel.
Some of its models have been integrated with a steer-by-wire system. The importance of the system is that it contains no mechanical connection between the tires and the steering wheel. The steering wheel will essentially function as a controller in this setup: individuals turn it, and some motors turn the wheels. This facilitates better flexibility of the steering wheel while the driver feels no vibrations from the road.
As there are no mechanical restrictions, the vehicle's computer can provide distinct characteristics to the steering wheel customized to the driver's preferences. Some people may view that loss of feel would harm the car's likeness; however, the steer-by-wire system will give them a much more relaxed driving experience.
The company believes that eventually, cars will no longer have steering wheels, and their new steer-by-wire system is a step in that direction.
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