Japan’s Toyota and China’s GAC will apparently collaborate on the development of two new electric vehicles under their joint venture, AutoIndustriya.com reported.
Toyota initially introduced the planned models in concept form at the 2023 Auto Guangzhou, featuring Chinese nameplates that translate to “Comfortable Space” for the sedan and “Enjoyable Space” for the SUV.
Comfortable Space sedan
Toyota’s Comfortable Space EV Concept features a sedan body type with roughly similar dimensions as the Lexus ES sedan. For context, it is approximately 5.0 meters long with 3 meters wheelbase.
It has frameless doors, retractable door handles, and 21″ wheels. Instead of traditional side mirrors, the vehicle features cameras on the sides.
Enjoyable Space SUV
The Enjoyable Space SUV concept is highly similar to the bZ FlexSpace Concept Toyota introduced in China in early 2023. It apparently has a length of 4.8 meters and a wheelbase of 2.9 meters.
The model will offer two powertrain configurations, including single and dual motors. Inside, it has a minimalist design that features a squared-off steering wheel, flat front seats, a sliding center console, velour-like trim, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
As for the pricing, reports suggest it will cost ¥250,000 (~A$53,000).
Production
According to CarExpert, the GAC Toyota joint venture will manage the manufacturing of the models’ production versions. The Comfortable Space sedan and Enjoyable Space SUV will sell only in the Chinese EV market.
The SUV concept will undergo production as early as next year. Meanwhile, the sedan concept has a later production schedule in 2025, as noted by Paultan.org.
Toyota and GAC expect to officially roll out the two new models in the next two years. They are a crucial part of the Japanese automaker’s strategy to offer ten new EVs by 2026. The models’ imminent arrival can also significantly aid the company in achieving its annual sales target of 1.5 million EVs.
