Toyota bZ4X electric SUV production restarts following hub bolt issue
Toyota has confirmed that it will restart production of the bZ4X electric vehicle following the resolution of a fault. A problem with the hub bolts meant they could loosen with sharp braking or turning, which could cause the wheel to fall off in a worst-case scenario. In a filing to the Japanese Transport Ministry, where the company logged the original recall, Toyota notes that it will ensure hub bolts were replaced and fully tightened in any new units.
Toyota also stated that it had resolved an issue with the airbags it spotted in the last month or so. Caused by incorrect installation, this fault meant that the airbag could fail or lead to an injury. The company recalled 2,700 units of the bZ4X in June across North America, Europe and Japan. Plus, EV sales were paused for over three months while the company looked to fix the issue. Thanks to the fix, customers in Japan will be able to lease the car from October 26. It is unclear when the model will go back on sale in other markets.
The Toyota bZ4X is the company’s first mass-produced all-electric vehicle, starting in the US from US$42,000. The entry-level FWD model has a 317 miles (~510 km) range and a top speed of 100 mph (~161 kph). Thanks to a 150 kW 201 hp motor, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (~97 kph) in 7.5 seconds and deliver up to 265 Nm of torque.
