Lexus long range EV teased ahead of Tokyo Motor Show debut

Japanese luxury carmaker plans to electrify its entire line-up by 2035.

Published On Sep 26, 2023 07:00:00 AM

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Lexus has released an image teasing the arrival of its upcoming EV concept. The concept, which will be unveiled at next month's Tokyo Motor Show, promises an impressive range of 800km on a single charge.

New Lexus EV concept sports a low-slung fastback look
Will be released by 2026
Could rival the likes of Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BMW i4

Lexus EV concept details

Lexus states the concept will "revolutionise the modular structure of the vehicle body, drastically change the production method, and completely revamp the software platform". The preview is the first step for Lexus in their plan to electrify their entire line-up by 2035. This announcement comes forth at a time when other car manufacturers have also unveiled their EV concept vehicles, such as the BMW Neue Klasse and the Mercedes Concept CLA.

Featuring a low-slung design, the EV concept features styling cues that could possibly be derived from the saloon concept Lexus unveiled briefly in 2021. The production car – slated for a 2026 launch – could possibly rival the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BMW i4 if it adopts a familiar five-door fastback silhouette like the concept.

Whilst Lexus has revealed no further details about the concept, its parent company Toyota had earlier announced plans to launch a new fleet of EVs in the near future, with major improvements in range and pricing.

Lexus EV concept: battery and range

Promising a range of around 800km on a single charge, Toyota's new lithium-ion battery technology – set to be shared with Lexus – offers a more efficient battery chemistry allowing for slimmer battery packs. This will help with lower-slung designs for EVs with enhanced aerodynamics and spacious interiors. We could expect the new Lexus vehicle to boast these enhancements.

Toyota also plans for the new lithium-ion battery chemistry to be offered with a 'High Performance' solid-state battery option, boasting a claimed range of over 1,000km on a single charge. Lexus however, has not yet confirmed any plans to match the figure with a production car, but suggested it will use solid-state technology for the production version of its Electrified Sport supercar concept.

Lexus EV concept production

Alongside the preview at next month's Japan Mobility Show, Lexus will also preview a new approach to car construction. The new approach is expected to be based on Toyota's plans to integrate propulsion, suspension and steering systems into space- and cost-efficient units. Lexus states the design is "thoroughly focused on Lexus characteristics". Details visible in the grainy preview image include new updated headlight designs, rear-view cameras replacing wing mirrors and an aggressive front profile possibly inspired by the Lexus LFA supercar. It is anticipated that the design will further evolve for the production car.

Lexus in India

Lexus boasts an extensive fleet of vehicles in its India line-up. Offering crossovers and SUVs such as the NX, RX and LX, it also offers the Toyota Vellfire-based luxury MPV, the LM. Whilst Lexus does not sell the RZ all-electric SUV here, the line-up does feature a wide range of plug-in hybrid vehicles for customers to choose from.

Also see:

Lexus LC500h Limited Edition launched at Rs 2.5 crore

India-spec Lexus LM revealed; bookings open