The yet-unamed battery electric vehicle from Lexus will mark a significant step forward in terms of design and technology
A new Lexus concept will make its global premiere at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 on October 25, previewing the first member of the automaker’s next-gen BEV range set to enter production in 2026. The company revealed the lighting signature and aerodynamic silhouette of the yet-unnamed concept which appears to adopt a low-slung bodystyle rather than being an SUV.Judging from the teasers, the concept appears to be related to the Lexus-branded sketch published by Toyota in April 2023. Common features include the sharp lines on the front fenders, the slim L-shaped headlights, and the sloping roofline. The upper portion of the body including the greenhouse is painted black, contrasting the silver exterior shade. We can also see the illuminated Lexus lettering at the back, the large-diameter wheels, and the air curtains on the bumpers.
Lexus claims that its next-generation battery EV will “revolutionize the modular structure of the car body, make major changes to production methods, and completely revamp the software platform”, with a design that is “thoroughly focused on the Lexus characteristics”.
The exterior gives emphasis to aerodynamics, combined with sustainable but also high-quality materials inside the cabin. Weight reduction will also play an important role, bringing benefits to performance and efficiency. Bear in mind that Hiroki Nakajima, Executive Vice President of Toyota, previously said that the design and driving performance of their next-gen BEVs will “set hearts racing”.
Lexus is focused on providing a fun-to-drive experience in its future fully electric models while offering new kinds of services. Core technologies will include the Direct4 four-wheel-drive system and the steer-by-wire targeting a “linear steering feel”. The BEV is expected to ride on a new modular architecture that will eventually underpin several new models from Toyota and Lexus. There is no word on power output figures but it is safe to assume that an undisclosed number of electric motors will offer more than decent performance.
More: Toyota Unveils New Electrification Strategy And Plans For 10 Next-Gen EVs By 2026
Toyota recently announced details about the next-gen battery technology which will most likely be shared with Lexus. A good candidate for the upcoming model is the Performance lithium-ion battery set to debut in production models in 2026. It promises 497 miles (800 km) of range and a 10-80 percent charge time of 20 minutes, while being 20 percent cheaper to produce compared to the current battery packs. The next step is a High-Performance lithium-ion battery coming in 2027-2028 offering over 612 miles (1,000 km) of range while bringing being a further 10 percent improvement in cost savings. Finally, Toyota’s solid-state battery is expected to arrive in 2027-2028, charging from 10-80 percent in as little as 10 minutes. The driving range will eventually exceed 746 miles (1,200 km), reaching as much as 932 miles (1,500 km) further in the future.
Lexus also showed us a preview of its booth at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship and made of sustainable bamboo material. The automaker will exhibit electrification and AI technology that will be used in its next-gen BEVs as it moves closer to its target of becoming an EV-only brand by 2035. Finally, the “Lexus Electrified VR Experience” will allow guests to try out a personalized virtual driving experience that is a sign of things to come.
