Toyota has just introduced the 2023 Toyota bZ4X crossover utility, the first in what the company says will be an extensive line of battery-powered electric vehicles. In this episode of America on the Road we will not only have all the information you need to know about the bZ4X, but we will also have exclusive information on how Toyota plans to approach environmentally conscious vehicles going forward. One thing we can assure you: their plan is far from all battery electric all the time.

Our special guest in this episode is Cooper Ericksen, group vice president, product planning and strategy for Toyota Motor North America. During the just-concluded Toyota “e-volution” event Host Jack Nerad had a chance to sit down with him to discuss the Toyota bZ4X compact crossover and Toyota’s plans for electrification going forward. What he said is fascinating stuff because it isn’t the blue-sky pablum some other manufacturers are putting out there. It’s a can’t-miss interview.

In auto news this week, the North American Car of the Year jury has announced its Finalists for its 2022 awards and we’ll have them for you in this episode. In the minds of the jurors they represent the nine best new vehicles to come to market for 2022. You’ll be amazed at what vehicles made the field and what vehicles did not.

Also in the news, if you have problems connecting your phone to your car, you are not alone. We’ll have the J.D. Power survey data for you on that and other automotive multimedia issues.

In the road test segment, Co-Host Chris Teague will be giving of his thoughts on the Ford Bronco. Is the Bronco Two-Door the right choice for a young family? How does the Bronco fare in the rigors of a Maine fall?

At the same time, Host Jack Nerad had the opportunity to drive the all-new Hyundai Santa Cruz compact pickup. The Santa Cruz represents an all-new vehicle type. How similar is it to the equally new 2022 Ford Maverick? And which one should you choose?