Toyota Recalls Over 25,000 bZ3 EVs in China Due to Inaccurate Remaining Battery Estimates

Introduction

Toyota has issued a recall for over 25,000 bZ3 electric vehicles (EVs) in China due to inaccurate remaining battery estimates. The recall comes after a previous recall in which over 12,000 bZ3s were affected by defective door handles installed on the EVs. The number of Toyota sedans on roads in China has more than doubled since, so this second recall involves an even larger group of potentially affected EVs.

Background

The bZ3 is Toyota’s second electric car and was launched in China in April 2023. The bZ3 is part of a joint partnership between FAW-Toyota and BYD, named BYD Toyota EV Technology. The bZ3 is a midsize sedan that is powered by a 71.4-kWh battery pack and has a range of up to 400 km. The bZ3 is also equipped with Toyota’s latest battery technology, which is designed to provide accurate remaining battery estimates.

The Recall

FAW-Toyota has issued a recall on 25,815 bZ3 EVs, effectively immediately ¹. The recall cites improper programming of the vehicle’s battery management controller, which can cause remaining power estimates in some EVs to excessively deviate from the actual range remaining. This deviation specifically affects Toyota EVs that have not been fully charged during multiple sessions consecutively and are driven at high speeds ¹.

In addition to inaccurate remaining battery estimates on the vehicle’s displays, Toyota’s filing states that the EV will lose power entirely without any low-charge warnings in extreme cases ¹.

Impact

The recall is expected to have a significant impact on Toyota’s sales in China. Toyota has been working to increase its presence in the Chinese market, and the bZ3 was seen as a key part of that strategy. The recall is also expected to have a significant impact on Toyota’s reputation in China. Toyota has been working to establish itself as a leader in the EV market, and the recall is likely to damage that reputation.

Conclusion

Toyota’s recall of over 25,000 bZ3 EVs in China due to inaccurate remaining battery estimates is a significant setback for the company. The recall is expected to have a significant impact on Toyota’s sales and reputation in China. Toyota has been working to establish itself as a leader in the EV market, and the recall is likely to damage that reputation.