Until electric vehicles become cheaper to build and buy than gasoline-powered vehicles, automakers and governments have to incentivize people to go electric, whether that's through tax credits or complimentary charging. Several automakers currently offer the latter, making it virtually free to fast-charge on the go. All of the Volkswagen Group brands (plus a few outside of the group) offer two or three years of free charging through Electrify America, while Subaru recently announced its partnership with EVgo for its first-ever EV, the Subaru Solterra.

Essentially a rebadged 2022 Toyota bZ4X, Toyota's version will also offer charging through the EVgo network. Unlike Subaru, which didn't announce if Soltera owners will receive complimentary charging sessions, Toyota says customers who purchase or lease a 2023 bZ4X are entitled to one year of free charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations nationwide.

Customers can use the Toyota app to find one of EVgo's 800 DC fast charging locations in 68 metropolitan areas across 35 states. The entire EVgo network is powered by 100% renewable energy, making it the only public charging network that can make such a claim.

Though the one-year offer is shorter than we've seen from Toyota's rivals, it doesn't mention any charge session time restrictions, which is the case with rival automakers. For example, Kia and BMW only offer 30-minute charging sessions as part of their two-year deals. Toyota and Subaru have not released specifications on how quickly the bZ4X and Soltera can charge, but judging by the "80% in under one hour claims," they will be slower than rival EVs from Ford, Kia, and Hyundai.

"The arrival of our all-electric bZ4X marks an important step in our commitment towards electrifying 70% of our fleet by 2030. We want our bZ4X customers to enjoy a high-quality ownership experience that is as seamless and worry-free as possible," said Christopher Yang, vice president, EV Charging Solutions, Toyota Motor North America. "Collaborating with EVgo, the nation's largest public fast charging network, will help provide bZ4X owners with access to a fast, reliable charge where and when they need it."

"EVgo is thrilled to collaborate with Toyota on bringing accessible and convenient fast charging to new EV drivers with the bZ4X," said Jonathan Levy, EVgo Chief Commercial Officer. "Toyota's scale and EVgo's track record of leadership in clean transportation will help make it easier for even more drivers to go electric."

The 2023 bZ4X goes on sale this spring.