Toyota bZ4X Owner's Manual: Charging methods

Charging Methods and Integrated Functions

Efficiently powering the traction battery involves several charging methods. AC charging uses an AC outlet paired with a dedicated cable or charger, and it even allows users to schedule charging sessions at a preferred date and time. On the other hand, DC charging makes use of a SAE J1772-compliant charger, providing a faster charging alternative than traditional AC methods. The SAE standard, set by the Society of Automotive Engineers, guarantees that these charging protocols meet strict performance and safety criteria.

In addition to these methods, modern electric vehicles like the Toyota bZ4X incorporate smart, charging-linked functions to optimize performance. For example, the "My Room Mode" enables the use of onboard electrical systems such as air conditioning and audio via external power-sometimes drawing from the traction battery-when the charging cable is connected. Furthermore, a dedicated traction battery heater automatically warms the battery in low-temperature conditions until it reaches a safe operating threshold, stopping either when the cable is disconnected or after about three days of continuous connection. These integrated features ensure not only an efficient charging process but also enhanced battery longevity and overall system reliability.

Traction battery warming control

This control operates after the charging cable remains connected to the vehicle for approximately 3 days and the traction battery heater automatically stops. It automatically insulates the traction battery in extremely low temperatures.

• This control stops 31 days after the charging cable is connected, even if it is still connected to the vehicle.
• When this control operates, charging schedule settings are ignored and charging starts.

Traction battery cooler

When the traction battery is hot and the AC charging cable is connected to the vehicle, this function cools the traction battery to protect it.

The function may operate when continuously driving at high speeds such as driving on highways or freeways, or during DC charging.

Using My Room Mode with DC Charging and the Traction Battery Heater

When activating My Room Mode during DC charging, the traction battery heater can operate even when active charging is not occurring. The illuminated charging indicator confirms that the heater is engaged, which helps maintain the battery within its optimal temperature range in cold conditions. However, if the heater runs concurrently with DC charging, the charging process may take longer as some energy is diverted to heat the battery. This can lead to a drop in the remaining battery charge, potentially requiring an additional charging cycle to reach the desired level.

This advanced functionality is vital for efficient energy management and improved battery longevity, especially in low-temperature environments. For example, the high-tech system in the Toyota bZ4X ensures safe and reliable performance by balancing heating needs with charging efficiency. By integrating smart features such as My Room Mode and automated traction battery heating, modern electric vehicles offer enhanced safety and performance, making them ideal for challenging weather conditions.

Traction battery cooler

• For AC charging: In modern electric vehicles, such as the Toyota bZ4X, the traction battery cooler settings can be adjusted through the multi-information display to achieve optimal thermal management.
• The charging indicator remains illuminated while the traction battery cooler is either on standby or actively operating.
• If the traction battery's state of charge is low, the cooler may not activate even when the battery temperature is high.
• The cooling cycle will automatically halt when any of the following conditions occur during the cooler’s operation.

• The hood is opened
• The power switch is set to ACC or ON
• The shift lever is moved from Park (P) to any other gear
• The Remote Air Conditioning System is activated
• The remaining charge of the traction battery drops below a defined threshold

• The traction battery cooler operates using power drawn from both the traction battery and an external source, ensuring consistent performance.

• While the cooler is running, the traction battery's charge will oscillate within a specific range rather than increasing as it does during regular charging.
• The charging system interprets the cooler’s operation as an active charging process; thus, if connected to a fee-based charger, standard charging fees may apply.

Changing of the traction battery cooler setting

Setting can be changed on the multi-information display.

Use the meter control switches   and select "Vehicle Settings", "Charging Settings", "Battery Cooler", and change the setting.

When selecting to off, the traction battery output may be restricted depending on the driving situation.