Toyota has made a significant move in the electric vehicle (EV) market by introducing an electric version of the C-HR, dubbed the C-HR Plus, and an updated bZ4X for the European market. The new models aim to address the range and charging limitations of their predecessors, with the C-HR Plus offering up to 600km (373 miles) of range and the bZ4X boasting a maximum range of 573km (356 miles).

The C-HR Plus is built on Toyota's e-TNGA platform and comes in two battery options: 57.7 kWh with 455km (283 miles) of range, and a larger 77 kWh battery that enables the vehicle to travel up to 600km (373 miles). The car's design is reminiscent of its hybrid predecessors, but with noticeable differences that set it apart as an electric vehicle.

The updated bZ4X, which is expected to eventually phase out its current naming strategy, will utilize the same dual-battery, e-TNGA platform setup as the C-HR Plus. The long-range version of the bZ4X will feature a 73.1 kWh battery, providing a cruising range of 445km (276.5 miles) or 573km (356 miles). This represents a significant improvement over the 2023 bZ4X, which had an EPA-estimated range of 252 miles.

One of the key upgrades to the bZ4X is the addition of battery pre-conditioning, a feature that was lacking in the previous model. Toyota aims to achieve rapid charging in approximately 30 minutes under cold conditions, specified as -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). This enhancement is expected to improve the overall charging experience for bZ4X owners.

Toyota spokesperson Rick Bourgoise confirmed that the announced updates are currently only for the European market, with no immediate plans for a U.S. release. However, given the bZ4X's popularity in the U.S., it is likely that these updates will eventually make their way to the American market. Both the C-HR Plus and the updated bZ4X are set to launch in Europe in the second half of this year.

The introduction of these electric vehicles marks a significant step forward for Toyota in the European market, where there is growing demand for eco-friendly transportation options. As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, Toyota's updated offerings are poised to compete with other major players in the EV space.

With the C-HR Plus and updated bZ4X, Toyota is demonstrating its commitment to providing customers with more sustainable and environmentally friendly options. As the company continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, it will be interesting to see how these new models perform in the market and what impact they will have on the industry as a whole.