Toyota bZ Time Attack concept: a testbed for electric racing.
The bZ Time Attack is Toyota's first all-electric SEMA concept, featuring a 6-inch lower ride height, a 6-inch wider track, racing suspension and brakes, over 400 horsepower, and a large aerodynamic package.
Toyota unveiled the bZ Time Attack concept – the company's first all-electric concept car – at SEMA, claiming it's a "mobile testbed" for electric racing development. Based on a 2026 bZ all-wheel-drive configuration with 338 horsepower (0–60 mph in 4.9 seconds), the Time Attack features a tuned two-motor powertrain delivering over 400 horsepower, managed by a dedicated ECU. Toyota didn't provide official performance estimates, but stated that the 0–60 mph time could be shortened to nearly 4.0 seconds.
From the 338-horsepower bZ AWD to the >400 horsepower testbed.
The project started with a 2026 bZ four-wheel-drive prototype producing 338 horsepower. Building on that foundation, Toyota upgraded the two-motor powertrain to over 400 horsepower, incorporating a custom-programmed ECU to optimize responsiveness and torque distribution. The goal was to boost acceleration and ensure durability on the racetrack. Regarding performance figures, the manufacturer has not released official test results.
Track-focused chassis: lowered by 6 inches, wheelbase increased by 6 inches.
To optimize tire performance and aerodynamics, the bZ Time Attack is lowered by 6 inches and has a 6-inch wider track than the original car. The suspension is completely redesigned with coil-over shock absorbers and Tein springs. The Alcon braking system, equipped with Hawk brake pads – adapted from GR86 Cup and GR Corolla TC race cars – ensures thermal stability and consistent brake pedal feel on long runs.
The 19-inch BBS Unlimited wheels, paired with Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 305/30 tires, increase the contact area, while the suspension setup and wider track contribute to better grip and body stability when cornering at high speeds.
Wide body and performance-oriented aerodynamics
The wide-body kit focuses on aerodynamic efficiency: black 3D-printed wheel arches, a sharp front splitter, a large rear wing, and an extended diffuser under the rear bumper. Large air intakes on the front wheel arches reduce pressure in the wheel wells, aiding in steering stability during deep braking and rapid turns.
Minimalist cockpit, meeting FIA standards.
Inside, the bZ Time Attack minimizes unnecessary materials to reduce weight. The car is equipped with an FIA-approved roll cage, OMP racing seats with OMP seatbelts. The rear seats have been removed; many decorative details have also been cut down, retaining only the functional components on the dashboard. The characteristic push-button shift cluster of the bZ has been moved to the control panel for easier driver access during racing.
The SEMA landscape: from engine swapping to electric racing.
Many of Toyota's previous SEMA projects focused on engine swaps. This year, they fitted a modern turbocharged V6 engine into a classic Land Cruiser; previously, a GR86 was swapped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive from a GR Corolla. Two years ago, Toyota unveiled the FJ Bruiser concept with a NASCAR V8 engine on a classic FJ45 chassis. With the bZ Time Attack, the company chose a different approach: using electric vehicles as a testbed for racing technology.
Key specifications of the Toyota bZ Time Attack concept
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Foundation | Based on the 2026 bZ all-wheel drive. |
| Power (original) | 338 horsepower (AWD) |
| Acceleration 0–60 mph (original) | 4.9 seconds (as announced) |
| Concept drivetrain | Two electric motors, over 400 horsepower, with a separate programmable ECU. |
| Acceleration 0–60 mph (concept) | Not released; Toyota says it could be close to 4.0 seconds. |
| Chassis setup | Lowered by 6 inches; increased wheelbase by 6 inches. |
| Suspension system | Tein coil-over shock absorbers and springs. |
| Brake | Alcon system, Hawk brake pads; adapted from GR86 Cup and GR Corolla TC race cars. |
| Wheels/Tires | 19-inch BBS Unlimited rims; Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 tires, size 305/30 |
| Aerodynamics | Wide body, 3D-printed wheel arch flares, front splitter, large rear wing, rear diffuser, front wheel arch air vents. |
| Interior | FIA-approved roll cage, OMP racing seats, OMP seat belts, rear seats removed; shift knob relocated to the dashboard. |
| Target | Mobile testbed for electric racing development |
Summary
The bZ Time Attack is not a static display model but a fully operational prototype, focusing on testing the chassis, brakes, aerodynamics, and electric powertrain performance under track conditions. While almost certainly not intended for commercial production, this concept shows Toyota is proactively shifting its expertise from the internal combustion engine world to the electric platform, aiming to create exciting electric vehicles suitable for future motorsports.
