Comparison with Tesla Model Y

Toyota’s bZ4X, in its front-wheel-drive variant with a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery, boasts an EPA Combined range of 252 miles. The all-wheel-drive version, featuring a 72.8-kilowatt-hour battery, can achieve up to 228 miles. These figures are based on 18-inch wheels.

The Limited trim, equipped with 20-inch wheels, exhibits higher energy consumption and lower range—236 miles and 222 miles, respectively.

The range capabilities of the Toyota bZ4X are considered one of its vulnerabilities, as several rivals offer about 300 miles (largely due to larger batteries), at least in certain versions. For the bZ4X, the range falls between 222-252 miles, but during highway driving, it might decrease by 20-25 miles (200-225 miles), factoring in the EPA’s energy consumption label.

The energy consumption of the Toyota bZ4X XLE FWD with 18-inch wheels, accounting for charging losses, is estimated at 119 MPGe, which equates to around 283 watt-hours per mile (3.5 miles/kWh). This represents the most efficient version of the vehicle.

Transitioning to 20-inch wheels raises the overall energy consumption by over 6% to 112 MPGe: 301 Wh/mi or 3.3 miles/kWh.

Switching from FWD to the AWD powertrain further elevates energy consumption. The high-end 2024 Toyota bZ4X Limited AWD 20-inch variant is rated at 102 MPGe: 330 Wh/mi or 3.0 miles/kWh.

The energy efficiency of the Toyota bZ4X, while decent, isn’t the best option available. The comparison with the 2024 Tesla Model Y—the benchmark vehicle—proves fascinating. The Model Y features a larger battery capacity (around 80 kWh) and achieves a maximum EPA Combined range of 310 miles, with an estimated energy consumption of 117 MPGe: 288 Wh/mi or 3.5 miles/kWh.

The Toyota bZ4X AWD with 18-inch wheels is rated at 324 Wh/mi or 3.1 miles/kWh, highlighting a 12.5% increase in energy consumption.

Thus, there is a 36% variation in range. This is partly due to a higher battery capacity (over 1/10) and greater overall effectiveness (over 1/10). Additionally, aerodynamics and other factors play a role in the difference, but at present, it appears that enhancing battery capacity and effectiveness are two areas where Toyota can make advancements.

* According to Tesla’s website, EPA range data for Tesla vehicles; ** The new Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD version is not yet listed by EPA, and thus we have excluded it from the comparison.

The contrast between the AWD variants of the Tesla Model Y and Toyota bZ4X is intriguing because the two vehicles are relatively similarly priced (MSRP level).

Toyota will face a significant challenge in competing with a 300-mile Tesla at such a price point, particularly considering the involvement of a $7,500 federal tax rebate (unavailable for imported cars except for leasing).

Therefore, the key question revolves around whether we will witness the next generation of Toyota’s EV with an 80+ kWh battery and enhanced efficiency.

* Tesla includes a Destination Fee (DST) of $1,390 and an Order Fee of $250 for all its models ($1,640 total).