The disingenuousness of Toyota

In Japan, three brands: Toyota, Panasonic (National), and JAL, have elected themselves the de facto ambassadors for the nation and are thus deeply rooted in the Japanese psyche and national consciousness.

It is arguable, however, that from this elevated position of privilege these companies pursue an agenda not based on innovation, advancement, and environmental sustainability, rather profit and their own self-interest.

Case in point Toyota, and the BZ3. While Toyota drags its heels at home in pursuing SDGs via the production and sale of EVs, in the PRC they have no choice. In order to turn a profit and comply with the market standards in China they have to sidestep their outdated hybrid technology and pursue electric alternatives. Toyota have, therefore, produced this advanced EV which, is manufactured and sold in PRC, a product which they won't sell to their domestic consumers - despite being considered a 'Japan first' company.

The average Japanese person has absolutely no idea that this product even exists.