Having long been known for its hybrid cars, Toyota is now going through a major transformation. Introducing its first electric vehicle with the bZ4X and the sedan bZ3 in recent months, Toyota‘s second fully electric vehicle under the Beyond Zero series faced an unfortunate development.
12,205 Toyota bZ3 cars are being recalled.
Toyota launched the bZ3 model on April 16, 2023, and is now initiating a recall shortly after. The reason for the recall is faulty rear door locks on 12,205 bZ3 electric sedans produced between March 13 and July 5, 2023.
The automaker stated that the rear door locks could open while driving, and in some cases, it could lead to passengers being trapped inside the vehicle. The design and material of the door handle were reported to create a gap between the outer door handle and the lock, causing the locking mechanism to malfunction, especially in high humidity or temperatures.
Toyota announced that they will replace the rear door locks with additional gaskets to enhance the safety of the vehicles at no cost. They also advised affected car owners to stop using their vehicles immediately and contact the nearest Toyota dealership for inspection. The recall process is set to begin on July 27, 2023.
The bZ3 is the result of a collaboration between Toyota and China‘s largest electric vehicle manufacturer BYD and is based on the e-TNGA platform. The car utilizes BYD‘s motor and battery systems and comes in two different versions, offering a range of 517 and 616 kilometers according to CLTC data.
In an effort to compete aggressively in the Chinese market, Toyota has set an aggressive pricing policy for both the bZ4X and bZ3, with both electric models priced below $25,000. What are your thoughts on Toyota and electric vehicles? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section.
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