Lexus has unveiled a collection of new installations at Milan Design Week 2025, the world’s largest showcase event for international design. Its exhibition at Superstudio Piu’s Daylight Space will feature “A-Un”, an immersive installation created in collaboration with Japanese creatives SIX and STUDEO, and “Discover Together”, an interactive collection produced by next generation designers in a legacy project from the Lexus Design Award.

The exhibition is open to the public at Superstudio Più in Tortona, Milan’s creative district, from April 8 to 13.

Simon Humphries, Lexus Chief Branding Officer, said: “Since the founding of our brand, Lexus has constantly challenged the conventions of the luxury automotive world, pushing the boundaries of mobility to create unique and extraordinary experiences that surpass expectations rather than simply meeting them. Today, as technology advances and transforms the way we perceive time spent in motion, we find ourselves reflecting on how these shifts can lead to profound new forms of engagement and interaction.

“At Milan Design Week, we seek to express this convergence of technology and humanity, exploring moments in which they intersect and how reimagining time itself can be a catalyst for new experiences. Additionally, through ‘Discover Together’, we have collaborated with three visionary creative units who explore the interplay between individuals with society through the lens of the Black Butterfly, offering new perspectives.”

The new immersive installations have taken inspiration from the “Black Butterfly”, the name given to a dual-interface control device featured in the cockpit of Lexus’ LF-ZC concept car. Each explores how future technologies will bring man, machine and mobility closer together.

The exhibition’s official opening today (April 7) will be hosted by Pascal Ruch, Toyota Motor Europe Vice President Lexus and Value Chain. He will introduce speakers including Lexus International President Takashi Watanabe and Lexus Design Division General Manager Koichi Suga. Together with Takeshi Nozoe of SIX., Tatsuki Ikezawa of STUDEO and representatives from Bascule Inc., Northeastern University and Lexus’ in-house designers, they will provide insights into the groundbreaking installations and the future of mobility and design.

A-Un installation

Across the two decades since its first appearance at Milan Design Week in 2005, Lexus has collaborated with world-renowned artists and designers – including Philippe Nigro, Neri Oxman, Sou Fujimoto and Rhizomatiks – to create immersive experiences that embody the brand’s vision and values.

This year it has teamed up with the Tokyo-based creative agency SIX and design studio STUDEO to present “A-Un”, an installation inspired by the Japanese concept of A-Un no Kokyū (harmonised breath), a traditional concept where two bodies or entities instinctively synchronise their movements and emotions. Using the Black Butterfly motif as a window connecting people and society, Lexus brings its vision for the future of mobility to life in an immersive space.

A vast Black Butterfly-shaped screen suddenly emerges within the space, standing three metres high and measuring 10 metres wide and four metres deep. A testament to Lexus’ commitment to honouring traditional materials and craftsmanship, the work was meticulously crafted by hand over three months, using woven threads made from about 35 kilometres of bamboo fibre.

The structure comes to life as visitors approach, responding to their heartbeats to create a unique, immersive experience. As the heartbeat synchronises with fluctuations sampled from nature, the Black Butterfly becomes a medium for discovery. In that moment, visitors witness the seamless connection between people, society and the world – an experience shaped by the “A-Un” philosophy.

Lexus’ vision of future mobility goes beyond a car simply responding to human commands to its anticipation of human intentions. Through the Black Butterfly, people and vehicles engage in a journey of constant learning and evolution together, discovering new possibilities and one-of-a-kind moments. Vehicles will connect directly with people, creating a new experience of movement.

Discover Together installation

This year’s exhibition builds on the legacy of the Lexus Design Award which has discovered, nurtured and long supported next generation creators, challenging the boundaries of creative potential. Three visionary groups have used the Black Butterfly as a motif to explore new dimensions of personalised experiences with technology. Bascule Inc., Northeastern University and Lexus’ in-house designers present a series of interactive installations that reinterpret the Black Butterfly through distinct and unique perspectives. This encounter between Lexus and emerging talents gives rise to “Experience Amazing” which visitors are invited to discover first-hand in the exhibition.

Earthspective

Bascule Inc. (Japan)

This work explores the concept of an expanded earth perspective. The combination of “earth” and “perspective” in its title represents a shift in the way we view our world. As humans, we perceive reality from our own, limited vantage points. However, when we step back and observe the Earth from the vastness of space, we gain a new perspective – an Earthspective. From this view, we are mere travellers on the planet. The words you speak become imprints on the future, etched into the ever-expanding universe.

Our Energy Nexus

Northeastern University (USA)

This installation explores the theme of reducing air pollution, using real-time interaction to visualise the power of community and collective action.

Visitors engage with real-time pollution levels and Milan’s global air quality index data, channelling their warmth through the Black Butterfly as symbolic release of energy. Each contribution is transformed into a glowing star; as the air clears, these stars shine brighter, reinforcing the connection between personal action and environmental change. Together our energy converges to shape a cleaner, brighter future.

Discover your Butterfly – Lexus in-house designers (Japan)

The butterfly is a symbol of your unknown potential to make an impact on the world

Inspired by the Butterfly Effect, this installation captures the transformative power of small actions.

It envisions a world where countless butterflies converge, each one unique in its motion, coming together to create a dynamic and evolving reality. With the Black Butterfly as a window for unleashing your unknown potential, visitors release their own butterfly, influencing the world around them while discovering new aspects of themselves. Each small flutter contributes to a ripple of beauty and change, proving that even the smallest actions can shape the future in powerful ways.

The Lexus Design Award – Discover Together

Since 2013, Lexus has hosted the Lexus Design Award, an international competition dedicated to fostering and supporting next generation creators through dialogue and co-creation. To deepen this collaboration and further its commitment to emerging design talent, the programme is being updated as the “Lexus Design Award – Discover Together”. It will be officially relaunched this summer with a showcase event scheduled to take place at Milan Design Week in April 2026. Look out for further details of this exciting new chapter in design.

Exhibition information

“A-Un” creator profiles

Takeshi Nozoe (SIX Inc.)

Takeshi Nozoe founded the creative company SIX Inc. in 2013. As creative director, Nozoe takes on the challenge of creating new forms of communication and real-world experiences with brands both in Japan and overseas, including Toyota GR and Lexus. He has worked on a number of projects that have expanded the boundaries of expression through the fusion of technology, including spatial expression using 1,000 drones; the music video “Obsession for Smoothness”, created in collaboration with OK Go; and the Space Balloon Project, a real-time interaction with the stratosphere. To date, he has received more than 100 international creative awards, including a Cannes Lions Gold Award and a New York Festival Gold Award. SIX’s original product, the COTODAMA Lyric speaker, is sold in 44 countries worldwide, demonstrating high recognition for its innovation in product development.

https://sixinc.jp/

Tatsuki Ikezawa (STUDEO)

A graduate of the Department of Design Informatics at Musashino Art University, Ikezawa founded the creative studio, STUDEO in 2020. Approaching brand strategy from the perspective of art direction, he seamlessly integrates concept development, product design including packaging and logo design, and the planning of communication tools such as commercials, graphics, and spatial design to create a cohesive brand world. In 2018, Ikezawa held a solo exhibition BEYOND THE CRAFT in New York and, in 2024, participated as a designer in The Trio Asia Posters at the Mexico International Poster Biennial.

His works have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Tokyo ADC Award, JAGDA New Designer Award, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, ONE SHOW, and New York ADC. He is a member of the Tokyo Art Directors Club and the Japan Graphic Designers Association.

https://www.studeo.co.jp/

“Discover Together” creator profiles

Bascule Inc. (Japan)

Members pictured (from left) Tomoyuki Iwabuchi, Masayoshi Boku, Sakiko Osawa

Bascule Inc. is a creative team based in Tokyo, known for extracting reality and stories hidden in various data to create emotional experiences. Centred on their unique approach called DATA-TAINMENT, they engage in a wide array of fields including advertising, events, sports, art, urban development, and outer space, aiming to create new experiential values in which everyone can participate.

https://bascule.co.jp/

Northeastern University (USA)

Members pictured (from left) Chloe Prock, Paolo Ciuccarelli, Jasmine Yiming Sun, Elizabeth McCaffrey

Under the direction of Paolo Ciuccarelli, head of Northeastern University’s Center for Design, Chloe Prock, Jasmine Yiming Sun, and Elizabeth McCaffrey form a team of designers and researchers exploring the wide intersections of data visualisation, experience design, and creative practice. With expertise spanning immersive media, computational data visualisation, UI/UX design, and design research, their work bridges the gaps between emerging technologies, human-centred design, and poetic computation to create engaging and thought-provoking experiences.

https://camd.northeastern.edu/center-for-design/

Lexus Design Team (Japan)

Members pictured (from left) Moto Takabatake and Yuri Tamura

Members of the Design Team at Toyota Motor Corporation have challenged new expressions and experiences by reinterpreting the Black Butterfly. As a mentor, Takabatake works as a Concept and Vision Designer, planning future visions and concepts targeting all products, including experiences for both Lexus and Toyota brands. Designer Yuri Tamura began her career as a CMF designer and now explores innovative designs that challenge existing concepts across all genres. She focuses on capturing human emotions and experiences from new perspectives, aiming to deliver inspiration to many.

The Black Butterfly, a dual-interface cockpit control system developed by Lexus for its LF-ZC concept car, has provided inspiration for international creators to develop immersive new installations at the cutting edge of art and design.

These exciting interpretations of how future technologies will bring man, machine and mobility closer together will be showcased by Lexus at Milan Design Week 2025, one of the world’s premiere events for global creatives. The exhibits will be on public view at the Superstudio Più, from April 8 to 13.

 “A-Un” is an interactive installation that connects intuitively with the viewer, combining the principles of the Black Butterfly with the traditional Japanese concept of Aun no kokyo – breathing in harmony. It has been developed by Lexus in collaboration with the Tokyo-based creative agency SIX and the STUDEO design studio. It presents a new dimension in seamless communication between humans and mobility and captures a spirit of mutual understanding through perfectly synchronised interactions.

Lexus’ Milan Design Week presence also includes “Discover Together”, produced by up-and-coming creative talents from Bascule Inc. in Japan, Northeastern University in the USA and the Lexus Designer Team, from Japan. For more than a decade, Lexus has supported innovative creators striving to help shape a better future world and society through the Lexus Design Award. Building on this legacy, Lexus has launched the “Discover Together” initiative. This project emphasises co-creation and reinterprets and expresses the new possibilities presented by the Black Butterfly cockpit control interfaces.  Through their original works, the creators demonstrate the different chemistry and experience that can occur when humans interact with the Black Butterfly.

Lexus has been an active participant in Milan Design Week over many years, using the opportunity to demonstrate its challenge to the status quo in the luxury automotive space, pushing boundaries in both products and services to create amazing experiences for its customers.

Exhibition information

“A-Un” creator profiles

Takeshi Nozoe (SIX Inc.)

Takeshi Nozoe founded the creative company SIX Inc. in 2013. As creative director, Nozoe takes on the challenge of creating new forms of communication and real-world experiences with brands both in Japan and overseas, including Toyota GR and Lexus. He has worked on a number of projects that have expanded the boundaries of expression through the fusion of technology, including spatial expression using 1,000 drones; the music video “Obsession for Smoothness”, created in collaboration with OK Go; and the Space Balloon Project, a real-time interaction with the stratosphere. To date, he has received more than 100 international creative awards, including a Cannes Lions Gold Award and a New York Festival Gold Awards. SIX’s original product, the COTODAMA Lyric speaker, is sold in 44 countries worldwide, demonstrating high recognition for its innovation in product development.

https://sixinc.jp/

Tatsuki Ikezawa (STUDEO)

A graduate of the Department of Design Informatics at Musashino Art University, Ikezawa founded the creative studio, STUDEO in 2020. Approaching brand strategy from the perspective of art direction, he seamlessly integrates concept development, product design including packaging and logo design, and the planning of communication tools such as commercials, graphics, and spatial design to create a cohesive brand world. In 2018, Ikezawa held a solo exhibition BEYOND THE CRAFT in New York and, in 2024, participated as a designer in The Trio Asia Posters at the Mexico International Poster Biennial.

His works have been recognised with numerous awards, including the Tokyo ADC Award, JAGDA New Designer Award, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, ONE SHOW, and New York ADC. He is a member of the Tokyo Art Directors Club and the Japan Graphic Designers Association.

https://www.studeo.co.jp/

“Discover Together” creator profiles

Bascule Inc. (Japan)

Members pictured (from left) Tomoyuki Iwabuchi, Masayoshi Boku, Sakiko Osawa

Bascule Inc. is a creative team based in Tokyo, known for extracting reality and stories hidden in various data to create emotional experiences. Centred on their unique approach called DATA-TAINMENT, they engage in a wide array of fields including advertising, events, sports, art, urban development, and outer space, aiming to create new experiential values in which everyone can participate.

https://bascule.co.jp/

Northeastern University (USA)

Members pictured (from left) Chloe Prock, Paolo Ciuccarelli, Jasmine Yiming Sun, Elizabeth McCaffrey

Under the direction of Paolo Ciuccarelli, head of Northeastern University’s Center for Design, Chloe Prock, Jasmine Yiming Sun, and Elizabeth McCaffrey form a team of designers and researchers exploring the wide intersections of data visualisation, experience design, and creative practice. With expertise spanning immersive media, computational data visualisation, UI/UX design, and design research, their work bridges the gaps between emerging technologies, human-centred design, and poetic computation to create engaging and thought-provoking experiences.

https://camd.northeastern.edu/center-for-design/

Lexus Designer Team (Japan)

Members pictured (from left) Moto Takabatake and Yuri Tamura

Members of the Design Team at Toyota Motor Corporation have challenged new expressions and experiences by reinterpreting the Black Butterfly. As a mentor, Takabatake works as a Concept and Vision Designer, planning future visions and concepts targeting all products, including experiences for both Lexus and Toyota brands. Designer Yuri Tamura began her career as a CMF designer and now explores innovative designs that challenge existing concepts across all genres. She focuses on capturing human emotions and experiences from new perspectives, aiming to deliver inspiration to many.

Lexus has set out its strategy for a new generation of all-electric vehicles, applying design principles and new technologies that will change the future of cars. At its annual Kenshiki forum in Brussels, the company gave a deeper insight into its roadmap for becoming a 100% battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand globally by 2035, and even earlier in Europe, by 2030 if market conditions allow.

Pascal Ruch, Vice-President, Lexus Europe and Value Chain, said: “Lexus has been a technology pioneer ever since the brand was founded in 1989. It has a proud heritage of challenging the conventions of the luxury car market and consistently delivering new value to customers. When it comes to electrification, we will again push boundaries in the premium automotive world. We will develop a new modular vehicle structure and new-generation batteries, not only to improve the performance of our BEVs but also, and perhaps most importantly, to reinvent driving pleasure.

“There will be a revolution in software too, which will allow us to design vehicles with the highest degree of personalisation, truly making luxury personal for each of our customers.”

The next generation of Lexus BEVs will use the opportunities of downsizing and weight reductions in structural parts to offer more versatile packaging. Advances in electrification technologies will enable further evolution of the Lexus Driving Signature – a constant, rewarding connection between driver and car that gives comfort, confidence and control at all times.

LF-ZL and LF-ZC concepts signal future model thinking

The recently unveiled Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL concept cars demonstrate how Lexus intends to maximise the potential offered by electrification and innovative technologies to deliver new mobility experiences.

The LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst), which made its European debut at the Kenshiki event, previews a new Lexus production sedan scheduled for launch in 2026. It reaps the benefits of Lexus’ electrification experience, with sleek proportions, a low centre of gravity, spacious cabin and a design that blends functionality with pleasing aesthetics.

The LF-ZL (Lexus Future Zero-emission Luxury) is a study for a flagship battery electric SUV that enables seamless connection between people, mobility and society. The driving experience can be tailored to each individual user’s preferences and interaction with the vehicle will reach a higher level with the car making personalised suggestions, based on the driver’s style and habits. The use of bamboo as the signature material in the cabin references Japanese tradition, but also reflects a sustainable approach – industrial use of this fast-growing plant is essential to prevent over-growing and protect nature.

Both concepts combine functionality with beauty with a new “provocative simplicity” design theme. This evolves the Lexus identity, using refined, simple design to create a striking presence. 

The fully digital intelligent cockpit gives the driver quick access to controls in an immersive environment. The central feature is a steering yoke to operate Lexus’ exclusive One Motion Grip steer-by-wire technology. Functions are consolidated on small digital screens either side of the driver.  Operational controls such as shifts, safety and driver assistance (ADAS) systems and drive mode selection are located on the left-hand pad, while convenience features such as audio, climate control phone and AI functions are grouped on the right. The concepts are also fitted with digital rear-view and side mirrors and an ultra-wide monitor on the front passenger side for accessing entertainment and mobility apps.

Arene operating system

Lexus’ new Arene Operating System will open new entertainment and connectivity possibilities. Using AI (artificial intelligence), the voice recognition system will provide swift response to commands and be able to make personalised, flexible suggestions – comparable to having a personal butler on hand.  The system will even be able to learn the driver’s routines and preferred apps and functions and activate them automatically, without having to be asked.

Driving performance

Lexus will leverage the specific performance characteristics of BEVs, such as the powerful acceleration and the smooth drive force control provided by its DIRECT4 all-wheel drive technology to enhance the pleasure of driving and make the driver feel at one with their car.

DIRECT4, already featured on the all-electric Lexus RZ and RX 500 performance hybrid, constantly balances the drive torque between the front and rear axles, according to the load on each wheel. This ensures optimal traction in all driving conditions, with more linear acceleration, improved cornering performance and a more stable vehicle posture. With a steer-by-wire system, future Lexus BEVs will offer a more intuitive steering experience, especially when driving on winding roads. 

The new Arene Operating System will change how the vehicle feels and behaves with different driving modes – luxury car or performance car, for example. Going further, the driver can raise the level of sensory experience, changing the car’s sound and vibrations. These features will be made possible with the adoption of a steer-by-wire system and over-the-air access to software options.

Modular vehicle structure

The next generation of Lexus BEVs will use a new modular structure that divides the vehicle body into three parts – front, centre and rear. This will be made possible by using gigacasting, a system that gives greater freedom in vehicle form. Reducing the number of parts – the front and rear sections of a vehicle structure currently comprise around 175 separate elements – will drastically reduce production time and give the flexibility for speedy development of different vehicle types. The front and rear modules can each be produced in less than two minutes. The modular structure will also being the benefits of higher rigidity and weight reduction, which in turn will contribute to linear, natural-feeling vehicle dynamics. Consideration will also be given to repair costs, ensuring that minor accidents do not result in high repair bills for customers.

The manufacturing process will also be transformed with cars moving autonomously through each stage of production on a self-driving assembly line.

Multi-technology approach and product developments

In the near-term, through to 2026, Lexus will continue with its multi-technology electrification approach, based on three vehicle types: models offering multiple powertrain options, such as the UX, NX and RX SUVs; BEVs using Lexus’ current global architecture platform, such as the RZ; and BEVs constructed using gigacasting on a next-generation platform, such as the future model based on the LF-ZC concept.  Over the next few years, vehicles will be introduced in each of these three categories, including BEVs, to expand and diversify the Lexus range.

They will also all benefit from powertrain enhancements and continuous improvements in battery technology. Lexus will be the first adopter of new battery technologies, including a new lithium-ion performance battery that is expected to offer a 10 to 80% recharging time of about 20 minutes and a cruising range of about 800 km (WLTP cycle). A lower-cost battery will also be made available, increasing customer choice.

In spring 2024, the RZ range will grow to include a new front-wheel drive version. Later, the option of One Motion Grip steer-by-wire will be offered for the first time. Also planned for the future is system replicating the feel and operation of a manual transmission for BEVs – another dimension in Lexus’ mission to focus on driving pleasure. From the outside, the vehicle will be as quiet as any other BEV, but at the controls the driver will experience all the sensations of a manual transmission vehicle, including engine sound and vibrations.

Lexus growth in Europe

This year, the company expects its European new car sales to reach about 74,000 units. This is an increase of about 50% on 2022’s performance, making Lexus one of the fastest-growing premium brands. It will also be a new record total for the region, excluding Russia.

This success is founded on a strong model range that has been almost completely renewed during the past two years. The line-up includes three all-new models in the critical D and E-premium SUV segments – the NX, RX and RZ – offering hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and battery electric powertrain options.

The momentum is expected to continue in 2024, propelling the company towards its future ambition of six-digit sales in Europe. Lexus has revealed two all-new models that are taking the brand into new market segments: the new flagship LM “Luxury Mover” people-carrier and the LBX, the company’s first small urban crossover. The LM takes passenger comfort to an unprecedented level while the LBX challenges the established luxury car hierarchy, proving that prestige features, quality and driving experience can be delivered in a small car package. Additionally, a new-generation GX will be introduced in eastern markets, a large SUV offering supreme luxury with exceptional off-road capabilities.

These models demonstrate Lexus’ growth ambitions and desire to continue to push boundaries with vehicles designed to engage with new consumer demographics.

• The RZ 450e is Lexus’ first Battery Electric Vehicle on a dedicated platform
• Auto Moto magazine recognizes “the best decarbonized car of the year”

The Lexus RZ 450e crossover has won the Gold Award for Green Car of the Year at the 2023 Grand Prix Auto Moto in France. The award judges, the editorial team of leading magazine Auto Moto, recognized the RZ as “the best decarbonized car of the year.” Judging criteria included purchase and ownership costs, practicality, and driving pleasure. The trophy was presented to Martin Millot, Marketing Department Head of Lexus France, at a ceremony in Paris in October.

The RZ 450e is the first Lexus model specifically developed as an all-electric vehicle. Its aim is to provide not only emissions-free driving, but also to harness the full potential of electric vehicles to reinvent the driving experience, true to the Lexus Electrified philosophy.

The RZ is also the first model to benefit from Lexus’ new, compact e-Axles. These work, at front and rear, in conjunction with the new DIRECT4 intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This exclusive Lexus technology automatically adjusts driving force distribution between front and rear in response to driving conditions, which also improves energy efficiency.

In addition to the advantages of DIRECT4, the RZ’s dedicated EV platform offers optimal manoeuvrability and responsiveness thanks to its excellent rigidity, low centre of gravity, and long wheelbase. A powerful lithium-ion battery is integrated into the chassis under the cabin floor.

The RZ’s all-electric powertrain and dedicated platform allow for new design freedoms. The vehicle stands out from the crowd because of its distinctive exterior design, while the interior is a clear and open space, both simple and luxurious, expressing Lexus’ Omotenashi hospitality and Takumi craftsmanship. 

As a highlight, from 2023, Lexus becomes Platinum Partner and Official Automotive Partner of the Nitto ATP Finals, to be held from November 12 to 19 in Turin, Italy, where only the Top 8 qualifying singles players and doubles teams will compete for the prestigious title. Lexus will provide a fleet of electrified models, including the new all-electric Lexus RZ450e, to support transportation of players, officials, and other guests during the tournament.

Lexus will also receive year-round brand exposure across ATP Tour’s fast-growing digital and social platforms, including Title Partnership of ATP Head2Head, a popular interactive feature that enables fans to explore rivalries between players on Tour.

Lexus is a pioneer in electrification in the premium car industry, building towards a holistic sustainable mobility vision, called Lexus Electrified. The brand’s comprehensive electrified portfolio includes self-charging electric hybrid, plug-in electric hybrid, and all-electric models. Promoting the use of such models during ATP tournaments, in 2023 and beyond, aligns with the ATP Tour’s climate ambitions under ATP Serves and UN Sports for Climate Action, which includes a Net Zero emissions target by 2040.

Massimo Calvelli, ATP CEO: “The ATP Tour and Lexus brands tell a story of innovation, performance and excellence, that also-perfectly aligns with our efforts under ATP Serves. Our fans and customers come first, and our brands both operate with a focus on providing unforgettable experiences. We’re delighted to welcome Lexus an ATP Tour Platinum Partner and to build on that shared narrative across our global platforms.”

Pascal Ruch, TME Vice President Lexus and Value Chain: “At Lexus, we adopt a human centred approach in everything we do. This not only applies to our cars but also to the class leading experience we provide to our customers. Our goal is to put a smile on the face of our customers. We see a great match with tennis competition, where individual performance creates ultimate excitement. We are thrilled to partner with the ATP Tour and to share the passion of top-level tennis with millions of fans across Europe and beyond.”

About The ATP

As the global governing body of men’s professional tennis, the ATP’s mission is to serve tennis. We entertain a billion global fans, showcase the world’s greatest players at the most prestigious tournaments, and inspire the next generation of fans and players. From the United Cup in Australia, to Europe, the Americas and Asia, the stars of the game battle for titles and Pepperstone ATP Rankings points at ATP Masters 1000, 500 and 250 events, and Grand Slams. All roads lead towards the Nitto ATP Finals, the prestigious season finale held in Turin, Italy. Featuring only the world’s top 8 qualified singles players and doubles teams, the tournament also sees the official crowning of the year-end ATP World No. 1, presented by Pepperstone, the ultimate achievement in tennis. 

About Lexus

Launched in 1989, Lexus is a global luxury lifestyle brand offering a full range of premium vehicles, including the LS and ES sedans, the LC and RC F coupes, the LC Convertible, the LBX, UX, NX, RZ and RX crossovers, and the GX and LX SUVs. Lexus aims to ‘make luxury personal’ through imaginative technology, meticulous craft, refined elegance, and ‘omotenashi’ - the Japanese sense of heartfelt hospitality. With more than 2.5 million self-charging hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles sold so far worldwide, the Lexus Electrified vision is built on the brand’s experience of electrified vehicles and targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control, and driver enjoyment through electrification technologies. In 2022, Lexus delivered about 625,000 vehicles globally including 50,467 in Europe, of which more than 80% were electrified.

Lexus has today unveiled ‘Shaped by Air,’ an installation by the acclaimed New York-based artist and architect Suchi Reddy, the founder of Reddymade Architecture and Design.  The work is being presented alongside the prototypes produced by the four winners of the Lexus Design Award 2023 in a public exhibition taking place at Milan’s Superstudio space until April 23^rd. Both the installation and the Lexus Design Award express an overarching theme of shaping the future.

The presentation is the latest in a series of compelling, immersive visitor experiences Lexus has brought to Milan Design Week, partnering with visionary creatives including Philippe Nigro, Neri Oxman, Sou Fujimoto, Rhizomatics and Germane Barnes, among others. Reddy’s ‘Shaped by Air’ maintains this tradition. Her work is inspired by the Lexus Electrified Sport, Lexus’ vision for a future all-electric sports coupe, and the quality it projects of being shaped by the air around it.

Reddy’s artwork was first presented at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami (ICA-Miami) during Miami Art & Design Week 2022. It has been reimagined for Milan Design Week as a multi-sensory experience which visitors can move through. The light and airy installation celebrates a commitment to human-centred, carbon-neutral and impeccably crafted design that is shared by both the artist and Lexus.

Brian Bolain, Lexus’ Global Head of Marketing, said: “We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Suchi Reddy in Milan, a city that has inspired so much ground-breaking creativity. We hope that by placing her human-centred approach to design in dialogue with the innovation of our Lexus Design Award winners, we will inspire visitors to imagine new futures. The Lexus Electrified Sport and Reddy’s interpretation of it, together with these award-winning prototypes, represents forward-looking design and expresses our ongoing commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability.”

The site-specific installation inside Superstudio invites guests to discover a to-scale interpretation of the Lexus Electrified Sport after travelling through a forest-like collection of composite shapes, suspended from the ceiling. Set at varying heights and finished in a vibrant shade of green, these subtly call to mind the cut-outs of French painter Henri Matisse. The sculptural steel and aluminium elements are made partly from recycled or re-used consumer materials. Punctuated by dappled light, they create an absorbing environment that evokes the natural world. An accompanying soundscape inspired by the wind further helps bring visitors into harmony with nature.

Suchi Reddy commented: “I am excited to partner with Lexus – a brand committed to uplifting artists and designers – on a new iteration of ‘Shaped by Air’. This immersive interpretation in Milan makes use of repetition, multi-sensory elements and three-dimensionality to create an emotional environment that envelops the body like a car.”

Reflecting Lexus’ commitment to Omotenashi––a concept that encompasses both hospitality and mindfulness––the Superstudio space invites visitors to rest in an upstairs lounge, where they can observe ‘Shaped by Air’ from a different vantage point. The lounge’s air is purified by Panasonic’s nanoe™ X, a technology that helps create a healthier in-car atmosphere in many Lexus models.

Digital audiences will be able to engage with ‘Shaped by Air’ through a partnership with Diorama, a Milan and Paris-based digital creative agency. Diorama has imagined the installation as a metaverse experience that complements the physical installation, but has a life of its own. This virtual extension is realised as a dynamic digital forest. Users can explore an abstract natural world from a completely new perspective, one that is filled with the rustling of leaves, currents of air and diffusions of light. Diorama has also produced an augmented reality journey that visitors to the Milan exhibition will be able to discover on-site, using a custom Lexus Instagram filter.

Lexus Design Award 2023 winners’ prototypes

Lexus’ exhibition also includes the final prototypes created by the winners of the Lexus Design Award 2023. The competition invited designers to submit concepts that anticipate the challenge of the future, address it with an innovative solution and captivate the imagination with exceptional design, while seamlessly enhancing the happiness of all.

The works express Lexus’ belief that design has the power to deliver positive change. Now in its 11^th year, the award celebrates up-and-coming talent from around the world. The panel of judges – Paola Antonelli, Karim Rashid and Simon Humphries, all internationally respected figures in their creative fields – selected the concepts that best represented the theme of ‘Design for a Better Tomorrow’.

Simon Humphries, Toyota Motor Corporation Chief Branding Officer, said: “We as designers have a unique responsibility to create answers to challenges, whether that is through innovative ideas, beautiful aesthetics or any other method that could offer a better future. From this point of view, the winning ideas were a clear reminder of the ‘power of design’.”

Ahead of their showcase at Milan Design Week, the winners were given a unique opportunity to collaborate and share ideas with four world-class creators who served as this year’s Lexus Design Award mentors: Marjan van Aubel, Joe Doucet, Yuri Suzuki, and Sumayya Vally. 

The winners have significantly evolved their prototypes through the mentorship process, transforming already beautiful ideas into practical, scalable and ambitious designs.

●        Pavels Hedström (Sweden, based in Denmark), designer of Fog-X, a jacket that transforms into a tent/shelter and can catch fog that turns it into drinking water.

●        Jiaming Liu (China), designer of Print Clay Humidifier, a sustainable, 3D-printed humidifier made with recycled ceramic waste.

●        Temporary Office, [Singapore (Vincent Lai) and Canada (Douglas Lee), based in USA], designers of Touch the Valley, a 3D topographic puzzle that helps visually impaired people learn about the physical environment through touch.

●        Kyeongho Park and Yejin Heo (Republic of Korea), designers of Zero Bag, a new clothing package that dissolves in water and contains a detergent that can remove chemicals from products while reducing plastic waste.

Sumayya Vally commented: “It was incredible to witness the winners’ hard work manifested in the work they presented. I believe that each of the projects is poetically and pertinently posing meaningful and urgent questions about our present world, and bringing into being a more beautiful and responsive future.”

The final prototypes are on view for the first time in Milan. Visitors are invited to explore the works and learn about how the concepts evolved through the mentorship process.

The Lexus Design Award also welcomes the public to take part in the Your Choice Award and vote for the idea they feel best represents ‘Design for a Better Tomorrow’. The voting is open to those visiting in-person and also online here.

Lexus has been at the forefront of pioneering electrification in the luxury market since 2005. With the presentation of the Lexus Electrified Sport, it continues to push the boundaries of technology and craftsmanship with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and a consideration for the evolving needs of transportation and lifestyles worldwide.  Suchi Reddy’s installation highlights the potential of electrification and, together with the work of the Lexus Design Award winners, underscores Lexus’ vision for a future that is human-centred, carbon-neutral, and focused on craftsmanship and quality.

NOTES TO EDITORS

EVENT DETAILS

Dates

Press day: April 17^th, 3 pm to 9 pm

Public days: April 18^th to 22^nd, 11 am to 9 pm and April 23^rd, 11 am to 6 pm

Venue

Superstudio Più (Day Light)

Via Tortona, 27

20144 Milan, Italy

Exhibition details

‘Shaped by Air’ installation by Suchi Reddy

Prototype works by the winners of the Lexus Design Award 2023

Online experience

‘Shaped by Air’ Metaverse Experience : https://discoverlexus.com/stories/shaped-by-air-at-milan-design-week-2023/

Shaped by Air AR Filter: https://www.instagram.com/ar/1378144106301649/ 

Lexus Design Award ‘Your Choice Award’: http://lexusdesignaward.com/vote

ABOUT SUCHI REDDY

Suchi Reddy founded Reddymade in 2002 with an approach to design that privileges the emotional quality of human engagement with space. Guided by her mantra “form follows feeling,” Reddy’s architectural and artistic practice is informed by her research at the intersection of neuroscience and the arts. Working towards a larger idea of “design justice,” she is dedicated to expanding our notions of empathy, equity, and agency—where the importance of design is recognized as an asset for the benefit of all, not just for some.

Reddy teaches at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, and Cooper Union’s Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture. She was the 2022 Walton Critic at the Catholic University of America, and the Plym Distinguished Professor at the University of Illinois School of Architecture, Champaign–Urbana in 2019, where her work focused on contemporary architectural experience through the lens of neuroaesthetics, neurophenomenology, and sensory design.

She sits on the board of the Design Trust for Public Space, Storefront for Art and Architecture, and Madame Architect; and she is a member of the Dean’s Board of Advisors at Detroit Mercy School of Architecture + Community Development.

ABOUT THE LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2023 WINNERS

Pavels Hedström　

Sweden, Based in Denmark

Pavels Hedström began his career as an architect after earning his Master of Architecture and Extreme Environments degree (architecture, design conservation) from the Royal Danish Academy. He explores how holistic approaches can be applied to existing ecosystems.

Fog-X　

Fog-X is a jacket that transforms into a tent/shelter that catches fog and turns it into drinking water. Through the mentorship programme, Fog-X has evolved significantly – both transforming from a heavy backpack to a light jacket/shelter and adding the creation of a mobile app for easy access to find fog. The idea became a solution incorporated in an everyday object.

Jiaming Liu

China

Jiaming Liu is an industrial designer who focuses on bringing fresh perspectives into people’s daily lives. He is currently exploring cross-cultural and sustainable design. He was born in China, where he completed his bachelor's degree, and recently graduated with a master's degree from Folkwang University of the Arts.

Print Clay Humidifier

Print Clay Humidifier is a 3D-printed humidifier made with recycled ceramic waste. After rounds of testing and prototyping with different materials and techniques, Jiaming landed on a 3D printing method and powdered ceramic (recycled from ceramic waste) that further improved water absorption efficiency. It is a non-electric, recycled and recyclable version of a common household device that is both functional and elegant.

Temporary Office

Vincent Lai (Singapore), Douglas Lee (Canada)

Based in USA

Temporary Office is a design team of Vincent Lai and Douglas Lee, graduates from University of California, Berkeley. They have worked on projects crossing the boundaries of architecture, public space, preservation and product design. With a strong focus on historical research and precedent, Temporary Office seeks to constructively respond to the ever-changing needs of our environment in a rational yet playful way.　

Touch the Valley

Touch the Valley is a 3D topographic puzzle that helps visually impaired people learn about the physical environment through the sense of touch. Taking feedback from user-testing, the puzzle’s playability was improved by the addition of small features, including magnet feedback, elevational grooves, and smoother edges – enabling people to enjoy immersing themselves in exploring and playing the puzzle without too much cognitive load.

Kyeongho Park & Yejin Heo　

Republic of Korea

Kyeongho Park & Yejin Heo are students majoring in industrial design at Hanyang University's ERICA campus in the Republic of Korea. They are concerned about social and environmental problems and explore user-centred solutions through design.

Zero Bag

Zero Bag is an eco-friendly packaging with paper detergent or baking soda film attached to an alginate water-soluble bag. Through the mentoring programme, Kyeongho and Yejin developed and articulated the potential use cases and target markets for this type of product. The idea for clothing packaging for the retail market evolved to include explorations for different industries, from clothes to food. The development process continues to evolve, as the designers embrace the myriad potential for their ideas.

Lexus has set a course to develop new technologies and vehicles that maximise the potential of electrification not just to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions, but also to deliver a higher level of performance, dynamics and driver engagement. At its Kenshiki media forum in Brussels the company provided a progress update on Lexus Electrified, its roadmap for electrification and the journey to carbon neutrality. It also highlighted some of the innovative design and engineering that will feature in its new generation models.

Pascal Ruch, TME Vice President in charge of Lexus Europe, acknowledged that ultimately battery electric vehicles will take the lead, but that while challenges of infrastructure and electricity supply remain, Lexus will continue to develop a range of electrified technologies for hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and battery electric vehicles to meet diverse customer needs and driving environments around the world.

He said: “All future development will be based on the principle of leveraging electrification to reinvent the driving experience. We want our vehicles to be truly enjoyable to drive.”

The Lexus technology advantage

Lexus was the pioneer of electrification in the luxury car market, introducing the hybrid electric RX 400h SUV in 2005. Since then, it has pushed the technology boundaries to achieve ever-better performance and efficiency, gaining unmatched experience in developing the principal electric vehicle components – including motors, batteries and power control units. At the same time, it has popularised hybrids with a growing range of models, that has amassed more than 2.3 million global sales. Today, more than 90% of the new Lexus vehicles sold in Europe are hybrids. The company is leveraging this experience to ensure its new generation of electrified models deliver the highest levels of quality, performance and safety.

To help realise its ambitions, Lexus is developing a new global headquarters at Shimoyama in Japan, a car-centric, agile complex that will be home to all its development disciplines, with designers and engineers working side by side in the drawing rooms and on the test tracks.

Lexus Electrified Sport

The Electrified Sport represents Lexus’ vision for a future halo sports car with a battery electric drivetrain. It captures the company’s intention to build electrified cars with an authentic performance dimension. Its sweeping lines – establishing a new Lexus BEV identity, inspired by the speed and smoothness of aerobatics – are matched by its power. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h acceleration is expected in around two seconds.

Superior battery design

The batteries deployed in the latest Lexus hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles provide practical, all-electric EV driving capability, but are kept compact to avoid penalties of weight, cost and intrusion into the cabin and load space. The same principle is applied to battery electric models, with the smart-sized 71.4 kWh battery in the upcoming RZ 450e SUV set to provide an optimal combination of range and efficiency.

The all-new RX hybrid introduces a new bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery, a technology that reduces resistance, giving higher load and unload capacity. This increases output from each cell by 70%, so more power can be obtained without increasing the battery’s dimensions. Lexus is also researching the next generation of lithium-ion batteries and the potential of solid-state battery technology. The bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery is available on the RX 350h and on the RX 500h, Lexus’ first turbocharged performance hybrid.

The quality and safety of Lexus’ new battery units are founded not only on the design and structure of the battery, but also on a monitoring system that detects any abnormal heating, all the way down to individual cell level. The use of non-conductive coolant prevents the risk of fire should a problem occur, while the battery design prevents degraded substances forming on the anode and compromising battery life. Thanks to these measures, Lexus is confidently targeting the new RZ to maintain 90% of its battery capacity after 10 years of use, adding to customer peace of mind.

Dynamic rewards with DIRECT4 and One Motion Grip

Lexus is introducing new systems that optimise the dynamic potential of electrified powertrains. DIRECT4, featured in the new RX 500h and RZ 450e models, is a Lexus-exclusive technology that instantly balances the drive torque delivered to the front and rear axles, giving optimum traction in all driving conditions, linear acceleration and enhanced cornering and vehicle posture. As well as performance and handling it will also contribute to greater ride comfort, particularly for rear seat passengers.

One Motion Grip is a steer-by-wire system that dispenses with mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Set for introduction on the new RZ 450e, it will transform the driving experience, eliminating the need for hand-over-hand turns of the wheel so manoeuvres are made easier and more precise. Low-speed agility and highway stability are also improved. The system makes automatic micro-corrections when driving over uneven surfaces.

An EV powertrain with manual transmission

For many drivers, the control and engagement provided by a manual transmission is an important part of an enjoyable driving experience. Lexus has investigated how a battery electric vehicle might be equipped with a manual transmission – a project that has progressed to focused development using a research prototype based on the UX 300e compact SUV, equipped with a gear lever and a clutch pedal.

Takashi Watanabe, Lexus Electrified Chief Engineer, explained: “From the outside, this vehicle is as quiet as any other BEV. But the driver is able to experience all the sensations of a manual transmission vehicle. It is a software-based system, so it can be programmed to reproduce the driving experience of different vehicle types, letting the driver choose their preferred mapping.”

With the DIRECT4 and One Motion Grip systems also being software-based, Lexus will be able to explore new opportunities for performance customisation to provide a personalised experience for each driver.

Lexus has introduced a package of upgrades to the UX 300e, the compact luxury crossover which launched two years ago as Lexus’ first all-electric model.

In the most significant development, a new battery system increases driving range by more than 40% up to 450 km – enough to travel from Brussels to Frankfurt for instance, or from Nice to Florence in one hop.

At the same time, detail changes to the body and chassis have enhanced the superior driving experience and refinement that are hallmarks of the Lexus UX family.

The UX 300e also gets a new and improved multimedia system, which is one of the top priorities for premium car buyers; a more comprehensive advanced safety system; and is now offered with a wider choice of upholstery details and an additional exterior colour.

The first production model launched under the banner of the Lexus electrification strategy, the UX 300e has attracted more than 10,000 buyers globally since launch in 2020, with nearly half those sales in Europe.

The face and voice of the launch campaign for the new UX is the internationally acclaimed musician Joy Crookes, whose hit song “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” features as the soundtrack for the television commercial. 

First deliveries of the new UX 300e in European markets will be made in May 2023.

New battery extends range; driving experience is refined

Lexus has significantly extended the UX 300e’s driving range beyond the previous 315 km by increasing battery pack capacity from 54.3 kWh to 72.8 kWh.

Maximum power output is 150 KW (204 PS), maximum torque 300 Nm. Models running on 17-inch wheels now achieve a WLTP combined range of 450 km (depending on options); models on 18-inch wheels achieve a combined range of 440 km (also depending on options).

A number of detail changes have been made to enhance the driving experience. Fine-tuning the electric power steering and shock absorbers has sharpened the driving dynamics, as has increasing the body rigidity with additional spot welding. These alterations further improve the planted feel and responsiveness of the UX, characteristics accentuated by the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and placement of the battery pack under the floor. Also, the insulation has been further optimised for an even quieter cabin.  

New and improved multimedia system

The UX now has a new, easier-to-use multimedia system, with a touchscreen replacing the touchpad. The system’s controls are more intuitive, command responses are faster, functionality is increased (but can vary according to market), and connectivity is greater. The screen is now positioned 143 mm closer to the driver for easier interaction. And where previously the screens were 7- or 10-inches large (according to equipment grade), now they are 8-inches, with sharper graphics, or 12.3-inches, with high-definition.

The multimedia system’s voice recognition capability now includes the “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant for making voice commands. “Hey Lexus” can be used to operate the controls (without any need to mute the audio system when doing so), operate the climate controls, search the internet, and connect to phone calls. Smartphone integration can be made wirelessly via Apple CarPlay or via Android Auto with a wired connection. Connectivity also extends to the Lexus Link smartphone app, which can remotely lock or unlock the doors and set the air conditioning or heating before getting into the car. 

In another enhancement, the multimedia system now includes cloud-based navigation as standard. This gives access to real-time road and traffic information, making it easier to plan journeys and re-route to avoid traffic delays. Other helpful information, such as local charging prices and parking locations, can also be accessed from the cloud by using “Hey Lexus”. The 12.3-inch screen adds embedded navigation, providing a permanent connection if cloud connection should be unavailable.

The space on the centre console previously occupied by the multimedia touchpad now houses controls for the heated front seats or, where these are not specified, a small storage cubby. The console also has a USB A-port for playback of high-resolution sound sources, two USB-C ports for device charging, and an illuminated tray which can accommodate a large smartphone.

Interior and exterior changes 

Inside the UX, both upholstery choices, fabric and genuine leather, are now available in a new Hazel colour option. For perforated leather upholstery there’s a new Kagome pleating effect, inspired by traditional Japanese basket weave. Japanese heritage has also inspired the dashboard’s surface texture, which has the appearance of Washi paper grain, as seen on sliding doors inside traditional houses.

A new exterior colour option is also offered with the new UX. This is Sonic Platinum, a brilliant silver paintwork with a beautiful metallic texture, characterized by contrasting highlights and shadows.

Additional features with Lexus Safety System +   

Upgrades have also been made to the UX’s Lexus Safety System + by adding capabilities. Intersection Turning Assist helps the driver make safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections. Emergency Steering Assist automatically makes small corrective inputs to the steering wheel, when enabled, to help prevent the vehicle from unintentionally departing from its lane. And the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control now has Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed according to bend radius.

UX300e Specifications (prototype)

(1) 17” wheels ; (2) 18” wheels ; WLTP combined

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/ux-300e/all-new-ux-300e

Lexus has been a familiar face on the peninsula both as a proud partner of Pebble Beach Resorts® for 20 years, and as a sponsor of the Pebble Beach Concours d ’Elegance® for 24 years. This year, the brand will highlight the Lexus Electrified Sport – most recently seen at the Goodwood Festival of Speed – as it makes its first U.S. appearance on the Lexus display at the Pebble Beach Golf Links®. CALTY Design Research President Kevin Hunter will provide his expert insight into the creation of this all-electric, high-performance vision of the future during a Lexus Electrified cocktail reception on Thursday, August 18th from 4:00-7:00 pm local time.

The topics of electrification, performance and the Next Chapter of Lexus will be discussed further on Friday, August 19^th at 1:10pm local time at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, via an informative chat between Vinay Shahani, VP of Lexus Marketing in the USA, and Townsend Bell, Lexus Brand Ambassador. 

Lexus Monterey Car Week 2022 Schedule

Lexus showcased its electrified present and future at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, giving tens of thousands of visitors to the annual automotive celebration in the UK the chance to take a close-up look at its current battery electric models together with the radically designed Lexus Electrified Sport Concept.

The concept model was making its first appearance outside Japan since being unveiled by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda in December 2021.  

It drew crowds of admirers across the four-day event and praise from the media. The UK’s Auto Express magazine described it as a “fully electric successor to the Japanese brand’s LFA sports car” with styling that “really has the ‘wow’ factor.” Autocar likewise considered it to be “a spiritual successor o the LFA” and said that Lexus will use the experience of developing the concept for other future EV models “as part of a drive to emphasise the brand’s dynamic focus.”

Lexus has marked the occasion of the car’s European debut at Goodwood with a special “unboxing” film, showing how the sleek sports car emerged from its bespoke transit container.

New images have also been produced, using studio techniques to show how the car might look on the festival’s famous hillclimb course, in front of historic Goodwood House.

The Lexus Electrified Sport Concept is a vision for a future all-electric, high-performance model. Its styling, initially developed at Lexus’ Calty design studio in California, presents bold proportions and a low ride height while the performance potential of its electric powertrain and solid state battery technology suggest 0-100 km/h acceleration in the low two-second area and a cruising range of more than 700 km. Its powerful combination of design and performance references the look and spirit of the Lexus LFA V10 supercar, which itself was a major attraction at the Festival of Speed when it made its first appearance at the event 10 years ago.

Lexus’ festival presence also included the RZ 450e, an all-new battery electric luxury SUV that will be launched across Europe later this year, the all-electric UX 300e compact crossover and the plug-in hybrid electric NX 450h+.

The Lexus Electrified Sport Concept is making its European debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed taking place from 23 to 26 June in the grounds of Goodwood House in Sussex, England.

This unique model represents Lexus’s vision for an all-electric, high-performance sports car, a foretaste of what the future might hold as the company evolves to become a luxury brand dedicated to battery electric vehicles.

The Lexus Electrified Sport Concept is proving a highlight for visitors to Electric Avenue, a display zone dedicated to zero emission electric vehicles. Admirers have been quick to discern elements of the car’s dramatic styling that echo the celebrated and ultra-rare Lexus LFA.

Where that hand-built supercar of the last decade was characterised by its powerful and acoustically thrilling naturally aspirated V10 engine, the Lexus Electrified Sport Concept looks to a new era of sports models that fully exploit the design freedoms, performance and handling potential provided by an all-electric drivetrain. Lexus anticipates a production version of the concept could be capable of 0-100 km/h acceleration in the low two-second range, while potential use of new solid state battery technology could secure a driving range of more than 700 km.

While the Lexus Electrified Sport Concept looks to the future, the festival is also showcasing Lexus EVs of the present on Electric Avenue: the newly revealed RZ 450e mid-size SUV and the UX 300e compact crossover.

The all-new RZ 450e received its world premiere in April and will go on sale in the UK and Europe later this year. A luxury SUV, it is the first Lexus electric vehicle to be developed from the ground up. It uses a new Lexus electric vehicle architecture that includes a new EV-dedicated platform that provide high body rigidity and a low centre of gravity – qualities that help ensure the comfort, control and confidence that are central to the Lexus Driving Signature. It also provides a long wheelbase that allows for a very spacious cabin. The powerful lithium-ion battery unit is fully integrated in the chassis, beneath the cabin floor, its quality finely controlled to ensure performance is maintained long-term.

The UX 300e is an all-electric version of the Lexus UX compact SUV. Launched in 2020, it has been the pioneer of the Lexus Electrified strategy, combining zero emission performance with the takumi craftsmanship, quality and refinement that are hallmarks of the brand. Its EV system uses a lithium-ion battery, housed beneath the vehicle floor so that a low centre of gravity is maintained. The electric powertrain produces 204 DIN hp/150kW and gives the car a driving range of up to 315 km (WLTP combined cycle figure).

Developed under the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ philosophy, the RZ is the first dedicated Lexus BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle). It is designed and engineered to set a new benchmark in terms of premium driving experience, providing the driver with a carefully crafted and intimate connection with their car, characterised by confidence, control and comfort.

The new sports model will be part of a full line-up of BEVs Lexus will launch by 2030 under its Lexus Electrified brand vision. Through Lexus Electrified, the company aims to fully leverage the potential of electrification to increase the joy of driving for all its customers. It will also deliver the rewards of the Lexus Driving Signature, a unique driving experience founded on linear vehicle responses that are constantly faithful to the driver’s intentions, with seamless connection of deceleration, steering and acceleration at all times.

With the bold proportions and low ride height required for a high-performance sports car, the new model symbolises the future of the Lexus brand while also reviving the spirit of the iconic Lexus LFA. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h will be in the low two-second range and the cruising distance will exceed 700 km, thanks to the possible use of solid-state batteries.

Through its development of pure electric vehicles, Lexus will evolve into a brand that offers a range of driving experiences, harnessing its unique performance development capabilities, and honing its craft of making products that are ever more personalised in their performance, quality and appeal.

The Lexus NX 450h+ has been named the Plug-in Hybrid of the Year in the prestigious What Car? awards.

It is an auspicious first honour for the all-new mid-size premium SUV, Lexus’s first plug-in hybrid electric model, introduced in late 2021. What Car? has also recognised the Lexus LC 500 Convertible with the award for the Best High-end Convertible.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, expressed warm praise for the Lexus: “The Lexus NX is one of the most compelling reasons to go green that we’ve yet seen, with a long electric-only range which should not only slash motorists running costs, but also makes for tempting company car tax rates. The NX is good to drive, too, and has an interior that’s hard to fault in any respect. In short, Lexus has proved that driving an electrified car without accepting compromises need not be a fantasy.”

Turning to the award for the LC 500 Convertible, he added: “the LC 500’s V8 is an aural delight whether you’re revving it out on the open road or bumbling around town. Moreover, when the roof is in place and you’re cruising at speed, the LC is much better at shutting out wind noise than its rivals. Add in concept car looks and beautiful interior that feels like it’s been built to outlast the Earth and you have an unspeakably desirable package.”

The 450h+ is the halo model of the all-new NX range, a model that opens a new chapter for Lexus, introducing new directions in design, new powertrains and significant improvements in dynamic performance. Technology innovation provides a superior multimedia and connectivity package and new and enhanced Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance systems.

Lexus brought to bear its premium market leadership in hybrid electric technology to produce a new powertrain for the NX 450h+ that excels in all key areas. The full plug-in system, including electric motors and battery, produces a maximum 309 DIN hp / 227kW, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. At the same time, CO₂ emissions of between 21-25g/km and fuel economy of 0.9-1.1 l/100 km are among the best in the model’s class.

Thanks to its powerful, rechargeable lithium-ion battery and all-round powertrain efficiency, NX 450h+ also provides a substantially higher EV range: at 70 to 74 km in the combined WLTP cycle, rising to 89 to 97 km in the urban cycle, this is as much as twice the range offered by competitors in its segment.

Lexus pursued the theme of “ultimate beauty” in producing the LC 500 Convertible, a car that successfully reinterprets the award-winning design of the flagship LC coupe. Thanks to sophisticated aerodynamics and the crafting of a bespoke folding soft-top mechanism, the car presents powerful, elegant lines and ensures occupants travel in complete comfort – roof up or down. Tuning of the naturally aspirated V8 engine note and the exhaust adds a special aural dimension to the driving experience.

Chris Hayes, Director of Lexus in the UK, said: “The all-new NX 450h+ is a pivotal model for our brand, setting the template for future Lexus vehicles that will raise the level of driver rewards, environmental performance and all-round quality to an even higher level. To have our first plug-in hybrid electric model honoured with this award on its debut is an achievement that is warmly appreciated by everyone at Lexus. Likewise, the award for the LC 500 Convertible reflects the breadth of design and engineering excellence at work in our company.”

It is perhaps too easy to assume that all new plug-in hybrid cars are much the same. They come with a powerful, high-voltage battery that gives you plenty of emissions-free, all-electric driving. And when the battery needs recharging, you can keep on driving using the engine until you can plug into to your power supply at home, the office, or a public charge point.

That’s true, as far as the basics go. But with its all-new NX 450h+, its first plug-in hybrid electric, Lexus is showing that with its technology, you can achieve much, much more.

It’s thanks to Lexus’ unmatched electrified vehicle expertise among premium car makers, established over more than 15 years, that this mid-size luxury SUV has immediately set a new reference point in its segment for its combination of performance and efficiency, including how far you can drive with zero exhaust emissions. It outperforms most of its rivals in all key metrics – by a distance.

The NX 450h+’s EV (electric vehicle) driving range is between 70 and 74 km on the WLTP combined test cycle, rising to 89-97 km in urban cycle journeys – the areas where clean vehicle performance is particularly crucial. These figures, together with 0.9-1.1 l/100 km fuel economy and an official 21-25 g/km CO2 emissions, are best-in-class by a good margin. Moreover, on the open road the Lexus can be driven on its electric power at speeds up to 135 km/h.

Not only will this mid-size luxury SUV go further and longer on zero emission pure electric power, it will also deliver class-leading performance when its battery charge is depleted. That’s because it then reverts to full hybrid electric power, unlike most rivals which switch to their internal combustion engine. That inevitably means using more fuel and generating higher emissions: Lexus has found that in this scenario, fuel consumption in the NX 450h+’s competitor models is on average between 23 and 30% higher than for its plug-in hybrid SUV.

What makes this possible is the technical quality of the Lexus plug-in hybrid electric system. It brings together a high-efficiency 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle engine with an electric motor-generator and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery has an 18.1 kWh capacity – another class-leading figure – and can be fully recharged in around two-and-a-half hours, using a 32 A station and the onboard 6.6 kW charger. The quality of the battery, refined through Lexus’ superior technology know-how, is fundamental to the car’s EV performance.

Using this advanced powertrain does not compromise the NX’s authentic SUV capabilities: the NX 450h+ comes as standard with energy-efficient e-Four all-wheel drive (AWD), using an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle when needed.

The accomplishments of the NX 450h+ are just one aspect of the new NX’s leap forward in efficient performance. The NX 350h, the self-charging hybrid electric model, also benefits from comprehensive technical upgrades that deliver all-round improvements. Compared to the previous NX 300h, the new, fourth generation system is 24% more powerful, producing 244 DIN hp, which helps reduce the 0-100 km/h acceleration time for the AWD model by 15% to 7.7 seconds.

There is no penalty to pay for this power hike in terms of fuel economy and emissions, however. Official test figures show a drop of around 20% in the CO2 figures: these start from 135 g/km in the WLTP combined test cycle for the AWD model, down to 129 g/km for the front-wheel drive version, with fuel consumption from 5.7 l/100 km (FWD model).

The performance statistics demonstrate how the benefits delivered by Lexus’ technology leadership make the NX a compelling choice for customers, whether seeking a plug-in hybrid electric or self-charging hybrid electric. That’s just part of the picture: the new NX brings further rewards in exhilarating performance, brave design and the famous Lexus takumi luxury craftsmanship, opening a new chapter for the brand.

For more information, please consult : https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/nx/

It replaces a model that has been very successful for Lexus in Europe, with more than 170,000 units sold since its introduction in 2014. Most of these were to customers new to Lexus, making it a key contributor to the brand’s growth in the region.

To build on this achievement and deliver a compelling new product to customers who today expect much more from their vehicle, Lexus has carried out a total reinvention of the NX.

Its ambition and commitment are demonstrated in big advances in performance, handling and efficiency, and in a staggering 95% of the vehicle’s parts being new.

Lexus has maintained a human-centred approach throughout, key to delivering the new NX’s essential “Feel More in Every Moment” quality.

Following its official reveal on June 12, the new NX will be launched in European markets in the last quarter of 2021.

DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT

• “Vital and Tech” concept combines dynamic agility with the use of advanced technologies
• Represents the first step in Lexus’ brand transformation, benefiting from new approaches to product development, design and testing

“Vital and Tech” is the over-arching theme for the new NX’s development concept – Vital expressing dynamic agility and Tech standing for innovation with advanced technologies.

Chief Engineer Takeaki Kato explains:

“The new NX is designed to meet the diverse lifestyles of customers around the world with a complete renewal of its key strengths, including electrification, design, driving performance and advanced technologies to broaden its appeal.”

This approach has delivered important advances, including new design language; Lexus’ first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV); a connected and rewarding driving experience with the Lexus Driving Signature; a focused and intuitive driver’s cockpit designed according to the new Tazuna architecture; and the application of advanced, human-centred technologies for safety and convenience.

The new NX development programme has brought about a major change in Lexus’ approach to new vehicle development, applying digital modelling and computer techniques for smarter engineering that can achieve a higher level of quality assurance. At the same time, the Takumi-led skills of the human hand, ear and eye remain essential to achieving the highest sensory quality.

A further innovation was the use of professional racing drivers to help hone the car’s dynamic performance – particularly steering and braking – in track testing at Lexus’ Shimoyama facility. There was also a focus on early adoption of new technologies for safety and comfort, while containing costs to ensure affordability for customers.

The elements in the development concept are brought together in the spirit of “Feel More in Every Moment” - the slogan Lexus is using to capture the rich sensory and driving appeal of the new NX.

FEEL MORE SOPHISTICATED:

A NEW DIRECTION IN LEXUS DESIGN

• “Functional beauty” in NX design appeals directly to diversifying customer needs and preferences
• Retaining the NX’s avant-garde quality with a more mature, sophisticated and muscular look
• Shape of the iconic Lexus spindle grille integral to the vehicle’s overall design
• Wider front and rear tracks give a more planted stance;flared wheel arches house up to 20-inch diameter wheels
• Rear characterised by new L-shaped lights with illumination spanning the entire width of the vehicle,
• Introduction of “LEXUS” name in place of the L-emblem on the tailgate, creating a clean, modern look

The new NX marks the beginning of a significant evolution of Lexus design, while remaining true to the brand’s core L-finesse philosophy – applying leading-edge design and technology, with finesse. The new model advances the avant-garde appeal of the original NX, but also presents a more sophisticated, dynamic and mature appearance and a more muscular character.

The goal for the design team was to create “functional beauty,” expressing in its styling how Lexus is meeting increasingly diverse customer requirements and preferences. The theme of “simplicity rooted in technology” informs the way clean, simple design can express the appeal of innovative functions and technology and how Lexus is keeping pace with the times.

The NX has balanced, strong proportions with a powerful. road-gripping stance. Compared to the first generation NX, overall length has increased by 20 mm, the wheelbase by 30 mm, the width by 20 mm and the height by 5 mm. These dimensions ensure optimum packaging, including more space in the cabin for rear seat passengers.

At the front, the hallmark Lexus spindle grille plays a more integral role in the car’s design: rendered more upright and with a more subtle frame, it accentuates the long bonnet and generates the overall form and volume of the body, which flares broadly towards the rear wings. Its more upright position also improves the grille’s cooling performance. The powerful, agile impression is strengthened by the wider front and rear tracks (enabled by the NX’s Global Architecture K (GA-K) platform), the long, sleek bonnet, short overhangs and flared wheel arches housing larger wheels – up to 20 inches in diameter.

At the rear, distinctive new features include new L-shaped rear combination lights, with signature Lexus blade lighting that spans the width of the vehicle, The Lexus emblem has been replaced with the “LEXUS” name emblazoned on the tailgate, creating a simple and more modern look.

The functional beauty is evident in details produced in collaboration between the NX’s designers and performance engineers to control airflow over and under the body, such as flush side mouldings and a new engine undercover design with a dimpled surface, like a golf ball. This creates micro-vortices in the air flow beneath the car, improving straight-line stability in high-speed driving.

FEEL MORE IN CONTROL:

A NEW CONCEPT IN CABIN ARCHITECTURE

• First model to feature Lexus’ new Tazuna driver’s cockpit concept
• Layout of controls and information sources optimised for “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road” focus, with an intuitive interface that requires minimal eye, head and hand movement for operation
• New design adds to the quality of the driving experience, inspiring the driver’s confidence and sense of connection with the vehicle

The new NX marks the first application of Lexus’ new Tazuna concept for the driver’s cockpit design. Taking its name from a Japanese word describing a rider’s control of their horse using the reins, it focuses on giving the driver direct, intuitive control of the vehicle, following the principal of “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.” It also adds to the rewards of the driving experience, making the driver feel confident and in control of their vehicle and their surroundings.

An example of the intuitive control that’s central to the concept is the touch-tracer switches on the steering wheel, which can be customised to operate the driver’s preferred functions. When the switch is used, its shape is shown on the head-up display, so the driver doesn’t have to look down at the wheel to check the function they want to operate.

The cockpit feeling is created by the shaping of the space curving around from the driver’s door to the centre console. Here, the information sources – the multimedia screen, multi-information display, single-dial combimeter, centralised gauges and (where specified) head-up display – are grouped in a unified area so their content can be read with minimal eye and head movement.

A similar principle is applied to the arrangement of the vehicle controls: the starter button, shift lever, air-conditioning controls, drive mode select button are all set on the same place, so reach and operation are simplified and perfectly intuitive.

The designers worked with Lexus’ Takumi artisans to perfect the design relationship between the steering wheel and shift lever. The cross-section of the wheel was precisely determined to give the best grip feel and ease of operation, while the shift lever was made as compact as possible, but with snug fit in the hand and with the ideal angle. Lexus also researched the shoulder-to-fingertip distance of people around the world to define a layout that provides excellent control without disturbing the driver’s posture.

FEEL MORE LUXURIOUS:

COMFORT, QUIETNESS AND AN OMOTENASHI EXPERIENCE

• Focus on passenger environment design to give the feel of a luxurious lounge
• Takumi craftsmanship with high sensory appeal and fine quality materials
• Omotenashi hospitality with welcome illumination, ambient lighting with up to 64 colours and Lexus’ first e-latch one-touch electronic door release system
• Remote functions provided by Lexus Link app, including cabin pre-heating and cooling and door locking and unlocking
• Faster, quieter power tailgate operation

While the driver experiences the focused, engaging environment created by the NX’s new Tazuna cockpit design, passengers enjoy an increased sense of spaciousness with an elevated level of comfort, quality and attention to detail that are quintessentially Lexus.

COMFORT AND QUIETNESS

For the front passenger environment, the design goal was to create the feeling of a luxurious lounge, with no intrusion from the driver’s area. This is emphasised in the cabin design by the curving line that delineates the two spaces.

The cabin finish is rich in examples of Lexus Takumi craftsmanship approach, using high-quality materials that both look and feel good. Comfort is addressed in details such as the precise front seat design, with attention to the cross-section shape of the seat, the position of the side-supporting bolsters and even the forming of concave areas to make space for the occupant’s elbows. Extensive use of materials to absorb and insulate noise and vibrations make for a quiet and calm environment.

NEW FEATURES IN THE SPIRIT OF OMOTENASHI HOSPITALITY

New features that enhance the on-board ambience reflect Lexus’ omotenashi principles of anticipating people’s needs and making them feel as welcome and comfortable as possible. These include an entry and start-up illumination sequence and personal welcome on the driver’s multi-information display. The ambient lighting system, available as standard or an option according to model grade, offers a choice of 64 colours to suit the occupants’ mood for the journey.

The new NX is the first Lexus model to be fitted with the e-latch electronic door release system. This electronic system replaces the familiar internal door handle with a push-button switch positioned next to the arm rest in the door panel. The ease of use with one smooth and simple motion is inspired by the traditional fusuma sliding paper screen room dividers in Japanese homes.

Convenience is also provided by the remote functions available to all new NX owners using the Lexus Link app, with pre-heating or cooling of the cabin before starting a journey and door locking and unlocking.

The operation of the power tailgate has also been improved so that it is both quieter and quicker – opening or closing time has been reduced by half to around four seconds.

FEEL MORE EXHILARATED – AND RESPONSIBLE:

POWERTRAINS AND PERFORMANCE

• All-new electrified and petrol ICE powertrains with class-leading performance
• NX 450h+, Lexus first plug-in hybrid electric and the halo model of the new NX range, giving 306 DIN hp, 63 km EV driving range and CO₂ emissions below 40 g/km
• NX 350h with fourth generation Lexus hybrid system, improves power by 22% and reduces emissions by 10%
• New four-cylinder petrol engines for Russia and Eastern Europe give new NX powerful competitive potential
  • NX 350 with 279 DIN hp 2.4-litre turbo with rapid-shift eight-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive with Dynamic Torque Control
  • 2.5-litre unit with 199 DIN hp positions new NX 250 at the heart of the region’s mid-size SUV market

The new NX’s status as a transformative model for Lexus with the potential for greater market penetration is further reflected in a wider range of powertrains using new and improved technologies, delivering emphatic best-in-class performance. They include Lexus’ first plug-in hybrid electric that will be a new reference point in the segment for its combination of power, efficiency and EV driving capability. The line-up also offers a new hybrid electric model, with significantly enhanced performance from fourth generation hybrid technology.

New petrol engines will significantly increase the NX’s competitive status in Russia and Eastern European markets.

NX 450h+, THE FIRST LEXUS PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC

Lexus has drawn on more than 15 years of hybrid technology expertise to produce its first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the new NX 450h+. The new model will accelerate the roll-out of electrified vehicles under the Lexus Electrified strategy.

The halo electrified model in the new NX range, it features a four-cylinder 2.5-litre hybrid engine and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with 18.1 kWh, the highest capacity in its class. An additional rear electric motor enables full-time all-wheel drive. The plug-in system produces 306 DIN hp and is expected to give 0-100 km/h acceleration in a little over six seconds. By contrast, estimated CO₂ emissions (WLTP combined cycle) of less than 40g/km and fuel economy of less than 3 l/100 km are set to be the best in the NX’s class.

The battery’s size and capacity and Lexus’ electrified efficiency know-how combine to deliver a class-leading EV driving range of 63 km and enable all-electric driving at speeds up to 135 km/h.

Crucially, the Lexus plug-in hybrid electric maintains high efficiency when the battery is depleted. In many competitors, operation defaults to an internal combustion engine, but in the NX 450h+ the default is to an efficient self-charging hybrid system. In these circumstances, the NX’s efficiency is expected to be as much as 20% greater than competitor systems.

Accommodating the plug-in system does not compromise the NX’s practicality – the boot has the same capacity as the hybrid model (with no space lost to powertrain components). There is also a 21-litre space beneath the deck board for tidy storage of the charging cables. Acknowledging how customers in the NX’s segment typically use their vehicle for longer journeys, the fuel tank capacity is also unaltered, at 55 litres.

NX 350h WITH FOURTH GENERATION HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

The performance and efficiency of the hybrid NX 350h have been taken to a higher level with the introduction of fourth generation Lexus hybrid technology. This provides 22% more power than system in the current model, taking output to 242 DIN hp and improving 0-100 km/h acceleration by 15% to 7.7 seconds, while at the same time giving an expected reduction in CO₂ emissions of around 10%.

The NX 350h will be available with both front and all-wheel drive. Towing capacity for the FWD model has been increased to 1,500 kg, matching the capability of the AWD version.

NEW 2.5 AND 2.4 TURBO PETROL ENGINESFOR THE RUSSIAN AND EASTERN EUROPEAN MARKETS

Two new petrol engines will strengthen the new NX’s competitiveness in Russia and Eastern European markets.

The line-up features a 2.4-litre turbocharged unit in the NX 350, developing 279 DIN hp and 430 Nm of torque. Its strength is matched by the rapid response of a Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission with new, shorter ratios. A brand-new, electronically controlled permanent all-wheel drive system ensures power is effectively transmitted to the road in low-grip conditions, making use of dynamic torque distribution and pre-torque loading, adding to the NX’s dynamic capabilities. Torque allocation between the front and rear axles can be adjusted from 75:25 to 50:50 according to the driving conditions.

A new 2.5-litre unit with 199 DIN hp will position the NX 250 at the heart of its segment in the region. This, too, will offer permanent all-wheel drive and Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission.

FEEL MORE CONFIDENT:THE LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE AND NEW GA-K PLATFORM

• Lexus Driving Signature combines ride comfort with steering, throttle and braking response perfectly faithful to the driver’s intentions
• Built on Lexus’ GA-K platform, gaining fundamental benefits in dynamic performance
• High body rigidity supported by world-first use of advanced materials and innovative design
• Dynamic performance tuned with direct input from professional racing drivers in the testing programme
• Improved all-wheel drive performance

Development of the new NX’s dynamic performance focused on delivering the Lexus Driving Signature – an ideal combination of ride comfort with steering, throttle and braking performance that is faithful to the driver’s intentions at every moment, generating confidence and a rewarding sense of connection with the car.

Central to achieving this is the use of Lexus’ Global Architecture K (GA-K) platform. This secures a lower centre of gravity (-20 mm), an increase in the front and rear tracks and an improved front/rear weight balance, all of which benefit the car’s improved handling and the driving experience. The new suspension design features front MacPherson struts and rear double wishbones with trailing arms.

Beyond that, a much more rigid body has been designed using innovative lightweight materials to add strength and allow for the weight of extra bracing and reinforcements. The structure includes world-first use of 1180 MPa steel for the rocker reinforcement and 1470 MPa steel for the roof reinforcement. The front wings and bonnet are made from aluminium and a new laser peening technology has been developed, in addition to laser screw welding and the use of adhesives for joining the structure. A twin bonnet latch design has been adopted, with a transverse reinforcement between the two locks, which adds the rigidity of the bonnet to that of the overall body and suppresses vibration caused by air turbulence.

PRO-DRIVER TESTING PROGRAMME

The NX has undergone extensive testing at Lexus’ Shimoyama proving ground, with professional racing drivers included in the team. Their detailed feedback fed directly into adjustment and tuning of the car and proved valuable in helping make significant improvements to the responsiveness and feel of the steering and braking.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

The E-Four electric all-wheel drive system in the new NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid electric and NX 350h hybrid has been upgraded so that the rear electric motor is always operational, providing more torque and giving the driver a greater sense of the car gripping the road.

Both the new 2.5-litre and 2.4-litre turbo petrol engines are available exclusively with AWD. On the 2.4 turbo the electronically controlled full-time system’s capability is increased with pre-torque loading and Dynamic Torque Control, giving the NX impressive performance in low-grip conditions, and stable, faster exiting from corners in on-road driving.

FEEL MORE CONNECTED:

FASTER, SMARTER CONNECTIVITY

• Completely new multimedia system providing faster response, additional functions and seamless connectivity
• Smart user interface combining touchscreen and buttons for intuitive operation
• New ‘Hey Lexus’ voice assistant
• Cloud navigation with access to real-time journey and traffic information via the vehicle’s data collection module – with no data usage
• 14-inch high-definition Lexus Link Pro display available on high grade models
• 50% quicker wireless smartphone recharging
• Wireless phone integration with Apple CarPlay
• Remote functions using Lexus Link app, including pre-journey air conditioning operation

The new NX marks the introduction of a completely new Lexus multimedia platform that transforms performance compared to the current system, meeting customers’ priority for fast, intuitive on-board connectivity. Operation is as smooth and simple as using a tablet.

The new platform introduces smart services, including advanced cloud navigation (where the local market supports the technology) via the car’s data communication module (DCM). This provides real-time journey information and traffic event updates without using up the owner’s data plan (a four-year data package is included in the car’s purchase price). The system also provides a new ‘Hey Lexus’ assistant, which responds to natural voice command dialogues as if you are conversing with the car.

The standard system Lexus Link Connect, uses a 9.8-inch display with an anti-glare touchscreen and additional buttons for intuitive access to the most frequently used functions. It gives significantly quicker response, with computing power much faster than the previous system.

The Lexus Link Pro system uses a new 14-inch display – one of the largest in it class. It is standard on high grade models and available as an option elsewhere in the new NX range. The high-definition screen presents clear graphics in all lighting conditions, while the speed of CPU (central processing unit) is 3.6 times faster than the current system.

CHARGING CONVENIENCE FOR ALL ON BOARD

Convenience for everyone on board is addressed with four USB ports in the cabin, two front and two rear. Of these, three are USB-C standard and can be used for device charging. Where specified, the wireless phone charger has 50% faster operation, while there is now wireless connection for smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay. Wired connection using Android Auto is also provided.

LEXUS LINK

A wider range of services and functions can be accessed remotely using the Lexus Link app, for example locking or unlocking the car and activating the air conditioning system to pre-warm or cool the cabin prior to a journey – a function that’s standard across the new NX range.

Owners of the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid electric can use the app to monitor charging progress, scheduling and settings.

FEEL MORE REASSURED:ADVANCED SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE

• Third generation Lexus Safety System +, a comprehensive active safety and driver assistance package
• Lexus Safety System + fitted as standard to all NX models in all European markets, increasing the accessibility of advanced safety technologies
• Systems expanded and upgraded to provide safeguards against more collision risks
• Operation calibrated for a more natural feel, increasing driver confidence
• New Safe Exit Assist system linked to e-latch electronic door release

The new NX is Lexus’ first model to feature the third generation of Lexus Safety System +, equipping it as standard with a comprehensive package of active safety and driver assistance features and setting a new benchmark for accident risk detection and prevention measures.

Lexus’ leadership in safety goes hand in hand with its commitment to making these technologies accessible to more motorists. With this aim in view, it is providing Lexus Safety System + as standard on all new NX models across all its European markets.

The latest development of Lexus Safety System + introduces new features and upgrades in the performance and functionality of others. Systems have also been tuned to operate in a way that feels more natural to the driver, and thus more reassuring, adding to the sense of driving confidence inspired by the NX’s new platform and powertrains. With this evolution, Lexus Safety System + moves to the next level as a personal driving partner.

The improvements introduced with the new NX include further expansion of the Pre-Collision System’s capability so that motorcycles and some solid objects in the car’s path, such as trees, walls and utility poles, can be detected. It also gains a new function that identifies collision risks with oncoming traffic or crossing pedestrians when making a turn at a junction. Its detection response is quicker and the ability to avoid an impact is increased with the addition of Emergency Steering Assist.

With these developments, the Pre-Collision System can recognise and help to avoid 36% more accident scenarios than previously.

Changes have been made to the Adaptive Cruise Control so that it recognises traffic cutting in in front of the NX more quickly and, in conjunction with upgrades to the Lane Trace Assist, follows a more natural line through bends. The ACC’s co-operation with the Road Sign Assist has also been expanded to respond to more signs and commands, including warning signs and STOP signs. When speed limits are recognised, the system alerts the driver to adjust the cruising speed.

EXTENDED SAFETY PACKAGE

Owners can extend their vehicle’s safety provisions and with an optional Extended Safety Package, available for higher grade NX models. In addition to the Lexus Safety System + features, this provides automatic lane change assistance. This initiates preliminary acceleration or deceleration from the pre-set cruising speed when the driver indicates to overtake or move into a lane behind a slower vehicle. The package also adds a front cross traffic alert system which uses radar monitoring to detect and warn the driver of traffic approaching from either side when emerging from a junction at low speed.

SAFE EXIT ASSIST

The new e-latch electronic entry and exit system is linked to the car’s Blind Spot Monitor to warn of any traffic or cyclists approaching from the rear. If it detects a risk, it will trigger a warning light and buzzer, and cancel the door unlatching.  Lexus believes this system can help prevent 95% of the accidents caused by door opening.

NEW LEXUS NX OUTLINE SPECIFICATIONS

The global online debut today of the LF-Z Electrified concept signals future initiatives and the start of an era of brand evolution for Lexus.

Lexus has gained a unique market position through the concurrent development of the world’s most extensive range of premium hybrid electric vehicles and the production of the LFA supercar and other thoroughbred “F” performance models. Its hybrid electric strategy has yielded almost two million sales globally since the introduction of the RX 400h in 2005, while today it offers nine hybrid electric and battery electric models for sale in around 90 countries worldwide. Its distinguished record as a technology innovator and world leader in electrified powertrains gives it the perfect platform from which to meet new challenges.

The automotive industry is in a once-in-century period of transformation in which it has to address unprecedented changes in people’s lifestyles and values, delivering mobility while also meeting the urgent social mission of carbon neutrality and embracement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Drawing on its experience and embracing innovation through its Lexus Electrified vision, Lexus will apply its research and development strengths to the maximum to achieve these goals while continuing to exceed customer expectations with premium quality cars that deliver great driving engagement and luxury craftsmanship.

The new LF-Z Electrified concept incorporates driving performance, styling and technologies that Lexus plans to realise by 2025. It will further advance the Lexus Driving Signature, bringing together expertise gained in performance car development with new opportunities offered by electrified powertrains to give the driver exceptional responsiveness and a sense of being fully connected with their car.

The LF-Z Electrified delivers this through its use of advanced technologies and a dedicated EV platform. For example, it achieves superior dynamic performance, thanks to the ideal location of the battery and electric motor, DIRECT4 all-wheel drive technology and other features that ensure a high degree of mobility freedom that sets it apart from conventional vehicles. It also provides advanced infotainment functions that will be available to Lexus customers in the near future.

By 2025, Lexus will introduce 20 new or upgraded models, including more than 10 battery electric (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEVs) and self-charging hybrid electric (HEVs) to meet the needs of different countries and regions around the world. It will strengthen its core sedan and SUV ranges and also explore the possibility of introducing new vehicle types, such as sports models, cars appropriate for chauffeur driving and models in entirely new categories. Throughout, Lexus will rise to the challenge of delivering new premium values, while exceeding the diverse expectations of its customers worldwide.

Lexus intends to offer electrified versions of all its models by 2025, by when it also expects electrified vehicles to account for more than half its global sales. It further aims to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the entire lifecycle of all its models by 2050, including in materials manufacturing, parts and vehicle logistics and disposal and recycling. In addition to careful selection of the materials used in its vehicles, Lexus will also consider the environmental impact of how those materials are made.

In March 2024, Lexus will open a new business and technology centre in Shimoyama, Aichi prefecture, Japan, to accelerate the planning and development of new products. This will bring together the teams involved in the design, development and planning of the next generation of vehicles and promote open and valuable collaboration with external partners. This focused approach to teamwork will help increase customer rewards, such as realising the full potential of the Lexus Driving Signature.

Koji Sato, President and Chief Branding Officer, Lexus International

“I would like to express my heartfelt respect to all the people around the world who are working so hard in the face of various difficulties.

“While fulfilling our social mission of realising a carbon-neutral society, we will continue to provide the fun and joy that cars bring, and we will contribute to the happiness and smiles of our customers and everyone involved with Lexus.

“Starting with two new models to be released this year, we will continue to develop innovative products that will add colour to the diversifying lifestyles of our customers.

“We hope you will look forward to the future of Lexus with its strong will to create a future mobility society.”

LEXUS LF-Z ELECTRIFIED – PRINCIPAL FEATURES

The LF-Z Electrified previews the future of Lexus, with design, driving and advanced technologies that will feature in new models to be introduced by 2025.

Its use of a dedicated EV platform is a fundamental step in realising the Lexus Electrified goal of “using electrification technology to achieve a significant evolution in basic vehicle performance.” The new DIRECT4 all-wheel drive control system also sets the concept apart from conventional vehicles.

By combining the electrification and motion control technologies it has developed over the years, Lexus aims to deliver the Lexus Driving Signature with a driving experience that builds a better, direct connection with the driver.

The exterior bodywork is deeply sculpted, accentuating an emotional appeal that is intrinsic to Lexus, while mounting the high-output electric motor at the rear contributes to dynamic and agile performance.

The interior is an open and minimalist space, featuring a Tazuna cockpit design that’s tailored to the specific qualities of EV driving and embracing the human-centred philosophy that has been at the heart of Lexus throughout the brand’s history.

The vehicle’s artificial intelligence (AI) uses dialogue with the driver to learn their personal preferences and behaviour characteristics, enabling it to make helpful suggestions such as details about route guidance and destination information. It will also add to the driver’s peace of mind by considering safety issues during the journey.

AN ENHANCED HUMAN-MACHINE CONNECTION

The Lexus Driving Signature gives the driver a sense of being seamlessly connected to the car’s acceleration, deceleration and steering at all times, with prompt linear responses that are faithful to their inputs and intentions.

The design and engineering of the LF-Z Electrified produces this driving quality, having ideal inertia characteristics thanks to the optimal location of the battery and motor. Electrification means the car’s packaging is not constrained by the driving of the wheels through the engine and transmission, an evolution in basic vehicle operation that helps the Lexus Driving Signature to be realised.

Positioning the battery longitudinally beneath the floor makes for a more rigid vehicle structure, lowers the car’s centre of gravity and helps absorb noise and vibrations from the road surface. This approach further raises the level of quietness and ride comfort – long-established hallmarks of Lexus vehicles – and also makes for a more spacious and comfortable cabin.

Lexus’ new DIRECT4 system allows for free, independent control of the high-torque motor’s drive force to all four wheels. It will adapt to provide front, rear or all-wheel drive as appropriate to any driving situation, helping control vehicle posture. It responds to the driver’s use of the accelerator and steering wheel to give powerful acceleration and cornering performance, perfectly aligned with the driver’s intentions.

The steering is by-wire, so there is no mechanical connection to the steering shaft. This gives a more direct correlation between steering operation and driving force so the vehicle can turn with less steering angle in response to the driving conditions. The driver will experience the benefits of this advanced technology with greater steering precision that matches their intentions. The fully electronic system also filters out unwanted vibrations from the road surface, while communicating the necessary steering feel to give and exhilarating drive.

A FUTURE DIRECTION FOR LEXUS DESIGN

The LF-Z Electrified is a study concept that previews how Lexus design will evolve, aiming for a simple and captivating shape rooted in strong proportions and a distinctive appearance. The overall form comprises a smooth cabin section with a low nose and a peak at the rear – a design characteristic unique to EVs. The large diameter wheels are pushed out to the corners of the vehicle, helping lower the centre of gravity and creating a wide stance.

The designers have taken up the challenge of evolving the iconic Lexus spindle shape to realise a new “spindle body,” creating a new expression of the vehicle’s architecture. The design also references the performance of the DIRECT4 system with seamless, dynamic changes in the surface of the doors from the front to the rear and eye-catching treatment of the wheel arches.

At the rear, a clean and simple horizontal design combines with a shape that emphasises the wheels to generate a powerful stance. The slim, horizonal rear combination lights feature a new Lexus logo, symbolising a new generation of Lexus design.

NEW TAZUNA COCKPIT AND OPEN INTERIOR CONCEPT

The new Tazuna concept for the cockpit takes Lexus’ core human-centred approach to a higher level. It is inspired by the relationship between a horse and rider, where commands are communicated by the use of the reins, interpreted here by the close co-ordination of switches on the steering wheel and a head-up display. This allows the driver to access vehicle functions and information intuitively, without having to move their line of sight and while keeping their attention on the road ahead.

The cockpit is the heart of the vehicle, while the instrument panel and other elements are positioned relatively low down in relation to the occupants. This creates a refreshing sense of openness and the welcoming omotenashi quality of a hospitality space where every detail has been carefully considered.

A seamless connection from the cowl to the front and rear doors gives the space a clean and high-quality feel. The glass panoramic roof adds to the feeling of openness throughout the cabin.

Driver information sources, such as the augmented reality (AR) head-up display, gauges multimedia touchscreen and other elements, are contained in a single module, while driving system controls are grouped around the steering wheel. This layout suggests the direction next generation Lexus interior styling will take, with the forward view expanded and the driver’s line of sight naturally drawn forwards.

ADVANCED FEATURES TO ENRICH THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The LF-Z Electrified’s artificial intelligence (AI) provides constant support and takes an active role by learning the driver’s preferences and behavioural characteristics. Voice communication contributes to the ease of driving. The voice recognition function uses the latest AI to recognise, learn and adapt to the driver’s habits and preferences, giving support with tasks such as planning driving routes and providing destination information. This interactivity will build a dialogue between the AI and driver, improving the driving experience and providing support like a lifestyle concierge.

A digital key gives family and friends access to the car without having to share a physical key. Vehicle functions can also be operated using a smartphone, such as door locking and unlocking. By giving service providers access to the vehicle via the digital key, drivers can enable services such as package delivery to the car and car sharing.

The doors use an E-Latch system. When the driver or a passenger approaches the car carrying a key, the retractable door handle automatically presents itself; the door can then be unlocked and opened smoothly simply by touching a sensor inside the handle. To exit the car, the door can be opened by pressing the door opening switch. Sensors on the vehicle monitor the surrounding area and warn of an approaching vehicle or cyclist, reducing the risk of an accident when getting out of the car.

The panoramic roof is made of electrochromic glass that can be dimmed when required and has functions for privacy and illumination that reflects the night sky. to reflect the night sky. A touch panel in the centre of the roof allows front and rear occupants to communicate with each other, while the rear seats have massage and recline functions.

A next generation Mark Levinson audio system reproduces the sound quality of international concert halls within the car’s acoustic space. Precise control of the speakers allows music to be enjoyed by both driver and occupants under ideal conditions. A sound management function with noise cancellation can filter out ambient noises in the cabin, making it easier for occupants to hold a conversation with each other.

LF-Z ELECTRIFIEDTECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall length (mm) 4,880
• Overall width (mm) 1,960
• Overall height (mm) 1,600
• Wheelbase (mm) 2,950
• Kerb weight (kg) 2,100
• EV driving range – WLTP (km) 600
• Battery type Lithium-ion
• Battery capacity (kWh) 90
• Charging power (kW) 150
• Cooling method Liquid
• Acceleration 0-100 km/h (sec) 3.0
• Max. speed (km/h) 200
• Max. output (kW) 400
• Max. torque (Nm) 700

NEW LEXUS BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY CENTRE TO OPEN IN 2024

Lexus will open a new business and technology centre in Shimoyama, Aichi prefecture, Japan, in March 2024. This will bring Lexus engineers and designers together with their product planning colleagues.

Here, both cars and employees will be developed through “driving and fixing” on test courses at the centre that replicate harsh driving environments from around the world. This is made possible thanks to the large site at Shimoyama and its naturally undulating landscape.

A new Lexus building and a “Messe” convention/exhibition centre will also be constructed, with facilities where the company can work on projects with its external business partners. Both facilities will enable people from Lexus and external businesses or organisations to co-operate in open and agile working to move car manufacturing beyond its current boundaries.

The cornerstone of new vehicle development will be a new three-storey Lexus building. The ground floor will feature an area emulating the look and feel of a pit garage at the Nürburgring race circuit, where people from all business functions can work on projects together, using cutting-edge digital tools for agile vehicle development.

The layout of the design space on the second floor has been drawn up to maximise creativity, with clay models on prominent display. Here, designers, production engineers, aerodynamicists and other members of the experimental department can collaborate closely on new ideas, at the heart of Lexus design development

The first-floor office space has an open-plan design that will encourage different business functions to work together and maximise individual creativity. To accelerate car-centred development, a flexible approach to working will enable employees to move freely between the floors whenever necessary.

The Messe building will encourage and enable creativity with Lexus’ external business partners. As well as a multi-purpose hall, it has a garage area where teams and business partners can meet to view, assess, work on and interact with vehicles.

Development of the test courses has started, and testing is already under way on a 5.3 km country route, rising through 75 m and featuring a range of different bends, making use of the natural contours of the land. There will be around 10 different test tracks in all, including a high-speed evaluation course and others which replicate different road surfaces from around the world.

The important issues of co-existence with the local environment and communities have been carefully considered in the development of the Shimoyama centre.

Great effort is invested in maintaining and managing the natural environment; preserved features and native plants and wildlife are present in about 70% of the site. Lexus is also working to support regeneration and conservation of nearby forests and rice fields, referred to locally as satoyama (neighbouring ecosystems that are closely linked to local human life). Dry and degraded rice paddies are being restored in wetland habitats and year-round water channels are being installed in surrounding valley fields to provide a refuge for aquatic life. In addition, tunnels and bridges have been constructed to preserve the natural topography as much as possible and to provide habitats and migration routes for animals and plants.

Last year as part of its new global electrification strategy, Lexus debuted the futuristic LF-30 concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show, which thrilled attendees with its visionary design and imaginative technologies. The new strategy, called ‘Lexus Electrified’, targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment.

Today, Lexus reveals a core Lexus Electrified technology supporting this vision: DIRECT4, a new electric drive control system designed for its next generation of battery electric and hybrid electric vehicles.

DIRECT4 precisely controls the delivery of drive torque from front and rear electric motors and braking force to all four wheels. By automatically adjusting the balance of front and rear-wheel drive, the system adapts the driving conditions to the driver’s intentions, changing the driving feel and giving the car the best driving posture. The system uses a front and rear e-axle, each featuring a high-torque electric motor and transaxle, focusing on optimum drive force distribution. As the motor is directly connected to the wheels by a single driveshaft, it operates without delay.

Its operation is intuitive and highly responsive, giving the driver a genuine sense of being fully connected with the vehicle. Moreover, it provides an ideal balance of predictability and excitement, with powerful, linear acceleration and exhilarating cornering.

At the same time, the system is engineered for quietness and comfort, true to Lexus’ DNA.

The new technology is introduced by Takashi Watanabe, Lexus Electrified Chief Engineer, in a short film interview. The film includes a practical demonstration of the benefits of DIRECT4 with track drives by prototype vehicles.

Watanabe explains that one of the key aims of the Lexus Electrified vision is to utilise new electric technologies to enhance the driving qualities that human senses react to.

In developing DIRECT4, Lexus has been able to draw on its unmatched experience in electrified vehicle technologies. This expertise supports the development of ‘Lexus Driving Signature’, a unique standard that will define the dynamic performance of Lexus’ next-generation vehicles. Lexus Driving Signature aims to provide drivers with a natural driving feel, a sense of unity with their vehicle, and the true comfort that comes from confidence, in a thoughtfully designed vehicle with the right balance of excitement and predictability.

The new film also provides a glimpse of Lexus’ future design thinking, revealing sketches and images of a new concept car to be revealed in the first quarter of 2021.

Chief Designer Koichi Suga explains how electrification technologies will impact on vehicle design as well as performance, for example with no requirement to provide front cooling for an engine and radiator. This will present exciting new opportunities to express technological advances in the car’s three-dimensional form.

THE NEW UX 300e

• The UX 300e, the first all-electric vehicle from Lexus, combines the brand’s world-class refinement and quietness levels with a new ‘Lexus Electrified’ driving experience
• Sharing the striking design and ‘Takumi’ craftsmanship of the original UX
• Legendary Lexus reliability and battery durability founded on 15 years of leadership in hybrid electrification
• Unique Lexus ‘Omotenashi’ ownership experience including a Lexus home charger, seamless access to Europe’s largest charging network and Lexus Link connected services app

Based on Lexus’ best-selling UX urban crossover, the first all-electric Lexus leverages 15 years of leadership in electrified hybrids. Timed perfectly to benefit from Europe’s improved charging infrastructure and the rapid growth of interest in luxury electric vehicles, the UX 300e will provide a near-silent driving experience that is both dynamic and razor-sharp.

“For the new UX 300e crossover, we’ve created an electrified driving experience that is unique to Lexus,” UX 300e Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe

With the all-electric UX 300e, Lexus takes its ’Lexus Electrification‘ vision to the next level. However, first and foremost, this is a Lexus, and nothing has been overlooked. The first Lexus BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) offers exceptional craftsmanship, build quality, comfort and quietness. From studying BEV noise patterns, specific actions like bespoke BEV tyres and wheel-arch liners that reduce noise caused by stones, grit or water spraying up from the road, were taken to reduce in-cabin noise significantly. Leaving no stone unturned, even the car’s drive-by-wire selector has been shaped by hand.

Also high on Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe’s ‘must have’ list was ‘fun’, which has resulted in a BEV driving experience that is dynamic yet extremely refined. This is due mainly to the car’s low centre of gravity, a characteristic of the UX platform (GA-C), helped in this case by locating the battery beneath the vehicle body and the electric motor low in the engine bay. The UX 300e also boasts bespoke suspension and steering, with elements of the Lexus advanced posture control, which was showcased on the new LF-30 Electrified concept.

The UX 300e also benefits from 15 years of Lexus leadership in electrification. With over 1,8 million Lexus electrified hybrids around the globe today, of which 450.000 are in Europe, the UX 300e engineering team was able to leverage unequalled know-how in battery design, manufacturing and battery management systems.

Finally, the new UX 300e welcomes owners to Lexus’ unique ownership experience that is unmatched by other premium BEVs. This means, for example, helping UX 300e customers with multiple charging solutions – at home with a Lexus charging station and on the move using a full-service solution called ‘Lexus Charging Network’ that was developed together with Digital Charging Solutions GmbH, a leader in the field of seamless and convenient digital charging solutions. When fully rolled out, this service will allow access to Europe’s largest network of around 160.000 public charging stations. This is accessible using the Lexus Link connectivity app that was created to complement the luxury brand’s famed ‘Omotenashi’ customer-centric service philosophy.

LEXUS ELECTRIFIED

Having launched the world’s first premium electrified hybrid, the RX 400h, in 2005, Lexus introduced the first V8 hybrid flagship in 2008 and broke new ground again in 2011 with the CT 200h hybrid compact. More recently, Lexus engineers developed a new high-performance Multi Stage Hybrid for the LS 500h and LC 500h models, and the latest 4^th generation Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid system launched last year on the UX 250h and ES 300h. Today, Lexus offers no fewer than ten different hybrid models.

Unveiled at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show alongside the LF-30 ‘Electrified’ concept, the luxury carmaker’s new ’Lexus Electrified‘ vision targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment - even as mobility within society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.

Evoking the original fun of driving, Lexus is now developing an integrated approach to electric motor control and other electrification technologies to further evolve driving pleasure and to fundamentally transform the essence of luxury vehicles of the future. Towards this end, Lexus engineers can draw on the lessons learned developing the core technologies found in the highly successful ten-model Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid range, such as battery management, power control modules and electric motors.

With the UX 300e spearheading this quantum shift at Lexus, ’Lexus Electrified’ includes the development of next-generation HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs and FCVs. Moving forward, Lexus plans to expand its electrified vehicle line-up: the first Lexus PHEV and a new dedicated BEV (all-electric) platform will be launched early this decade.

A LEXUS ‘BEST-SELLER’ GOES ELECTRIC

The UX 300e is the newest member of the UX compact crossover family that Lexus launched early in 2019. Since then, the UX has quickly become the best-selling Lexus in Europe. More than 30.000 have been sold so far, claiming a record 4,3 per cent segment share for Lexus. As the first production model under the ’Lexus Electrified’ banner, the all-electric UX 300e was developed for exciting urban performance. Lexus engineers kept the distinctive design and utility characteristics of the UX crossover intact and focused on the opportunity to build on the performance advantages unique to BEVs.

Optimised for urban driving, the UX 300e’s all-new BEV drivetrain features a high-output 150 kW (204 DIN hp) electric motor/generator that lends the car a natural-yet-brisk acceleration character. It is powered by a newly developed high-capacity 54 kilowatt-hour battery located directly underneath the floor of the cabin which delivers 400 km of range in the NEDC cycle, corresponding to 305-315 km of range in the WLTP cycle depending on options, such as wheel size etc.

Like the rest of the UX family, the UX 300e adopts Lexus’ new Global Architecture - Compact (GA-C) platform. This lightweight yet super-rigid structure (made even stronger by the underfloor battery and cross members which support it), combined with the car’s low centre of gravity (due to the battery and electric motor position) and refined suspension tuning, endow the UX 300e with exemplary steering precision, handling agility and ride comfort, along with a distinctive ‘Lexus Electrified’ driving character.

WORLD-CLASS ELECTRIFIED QUALITY

To ensure the first Lexus BEV embodies the same world-class quality that is a hallmark of all Lexus cars, the UX 300e will be built alongside electrified hybrid models at Lexus’ award-winning Kyushu plant, with production overseen by ‘Takumi’ master craftspeople. Here, attention to detail is everywhere, from the beautiful hand-sanded paintwork to the cleanroom assembly of electric components. At the plant, an elite team stitches the leather seats with a design inspired by ‘sashiko’, a traditional Japanese quilting technique which brings both strength and a distinctive style to the upholstery. Before shipping, every UX 300e will be checked for perfection in a ‘Quiet Room’ facility by Takumi craftspeople. Here they use their finely trained ears and fingertips to detect and rectify unwanted noise and vibrations within the cabin.

EUROPE: A KEY MARKET FOR THE FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC LEXUS

The UX 300e has been launched in selected European markets in the second half of 2020, and from 2021 in the rest of Europe. Spearheading the company’s ’Lexus Electrified’ vision, it is expected to make up as much as one third of UX sales by 2022. Following the success of the other UX models, the UX 300e launch is perfectly timed to meet the growing demand for premium quality BEVs. While most urban areas in Europe are relatively well served in terms of charging stations, the UX 300e is expected to have broadest appeal in countries with highly-developed charging infrastructures such as Norway, the Netherlands, Germany and the UK, and to entice ’urban explorers’ attracted to the flexibility of a luxury crossover that is agile and fun to drive in the city.

2. ELECTRIFIED CROSSOVER DESIGN

Like the rest of the UX family, the new UX 300e showcases Lexus design features like the signature grille, sculpted character lines and athletic coupé-like roofline. To the front, distinctive daytime running lights are arranged in an arrowhead motif above the headlights, emphasizing the Lexus L-shaped lighting signature. These appear like brows above the standard single-projector dual-beam LED headlights or the optional ultra-small 3-projector LED units.

Closer inspection of the UX 300e reveals exclusive 17” or 18” wheels, a distinctive ‘Electric’ side emblem, with discreet DC and AC charging inlet covers on the left and right rear quarters respectively.

EXCLUSIVE 17“ OR 18“ WHEELS

Created especially for the first all-electric Lexus, a choice of exclusive 17” or 18“ wheels are offered on the UX 300e, both finished in medium grey. As on the UX, the 17“ wheels are ’aero ventilating’ and feature flaps on each side of the spokes. These are similar in shape to the ‘Gurney flap’ which is installed on the rear wing of Formula 1 race cars to regulate the airflow and create vortices that increase downforce. This innovative new wheel design enables more confident driving by providing stable braking performance, increasing cooling efficiency and reducing turbulence along the sides of the car.

ENHANCED AERODYNAMICS

In addition to the UX’s aerodynamic rear combination light, which reduces air pressure changes by about 16 per cent and contributes to excellent rear stability during cornering as well as in side winds, the UX 300e is equipped with aerodynamic shutters in the lower front grille. Depending on the battery state, the shutters are opened and closed automatically to reduce the UX 300e’s coefficient of drag to 0,31. In situations where the airflow generated through driving exceeds what is required for cooling, the shutters are closed to optimise the airflow entering through the grille. Also unique to the UX 300e, the car’s underfloor covers have been enlarged and the bottom surface of the battery has been made flat and smooth, creating an aerodynamic underbody structure.

BESPOKE DESIGN FEATURES

As first presented on the UX, the new UX 300e features a cabin inspired by an established Japanese architectural concept where the inside and outside are seamlessly connected. This unique approach gives the driver a better sense of the extremities of the car, making it much easier to manoeuvre in tight urban spaces.

As with all UX models, everything of importance is positioned around the driver, with all the controls falling naturally to hand (there’s even a clever centre console with a palm rest that has the audio controls built in). For the first all-electric Lexus, the driving instruments have been specially designed with a digital speedometer creating a sporty look, a driving range indicator and a four-level deceleration indicator.

Another central point of interaction for the UX 300e driver is the finely crafted drive selector. Replacing the conventional gearshift, this fits snugly in the driver’s palm and applies Lexus’ very latest ‘shift-by-wire’ technology to create a premium feel for controlling reverse/neutral/drive. Additionally, the operation stroke has been shortened to enable rapid shifting.

To the rear, the exclusive UX 300e rear seats are heated and specially designed to seamlessly accommodate both passengers and the battery beneath.

INTELLIGENT BATTERY PACKAGING

The new UX 300e crossover package is ideal for electrified urban driving. While the 2.640 mm wheelbase contributes to a smooth, stable ride and cabin roominess, the 4.495 mm length and best-in-segment 10,4 m curb-to-curb turning diameter help make this all-electric Lexus easy to manoeuvre and convenient to park. As part of the UX family, the overall visibility in the UX 300e is enhanced by a low bonnet enabled by the new (GA-C) platform and the low-mounted drivetrain.

With the compact lithium-ion battery installed below the rear seats and under the cabin floor, rear space is hardly compromised at all compared to other UX models (16,4 mm less rear headroom), whilst the boot space is actually increased by 47 litres (deck to luggage cover) to 367 litres (loaded to luggage cover) compared to the UX 250h hybrid. Finally, a hands-free power rear tailgate makes loading the UX more convenient.

3. ELECTRIFIED PERFORMANCE

The UX 300e is a fully-fledged Lexus with its own specially crafted BEV drivetrain. Developed to deliver class-leading refinement and performance, and leveraging Lexus’ unique experience in building over 1,8 million electrified hybrids since 2005, the first all-electric Lexus features a newly developed front-wheel-drive BEV system equipped with a large-capacity lithium ion battery and a high-output electric motor.

“Sitting in the new UX 300e, drivers will instantly appreciate its human-centric design and amazing attention to detail. As their journey progresses, they’ll sense how we’ve taken legendary Lexus values like quietness, reliability and the three C’s (comfort, control and confidence) to new levels.” UX 300e Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe

The new UX 300e showcases the very latest lithium-ion battery technology including a high-density electrode and advanced electrode stacking structure. Carefully sized for the real-world needs of urban customers in Europe, the UX 300e’s battery is designed to deliver a good balance of optimal range (up to 315 km WLTP) and dynamic driving performance. This range meets customer requirements for an urban compact vehicle. It also allows for a more compact and lightweight battery, which contributes to the overall efficiency of the UX. And of course, it improves packaging, enabling the space and practicality that is expected from an urban crossover.

MAIN UX 300e COMPONENTS:

AC charger: This device takes AC electricity supplied via the charge port and converts it to DC power for charging the main battery.

AC / DC charge ports: These allow the BEV to connect to an external power supply in order to charge the battery pack.

Electric motor: The UX 300e’s compact new 150 kW electric motor/generator drives the front wheels and generates electricity when braking or coasting.

Inverter: This converts DC power to AC to drive the electric motors.

Lithium-ion battery pack: The UX 300e’s newly developed battery has a 288-cell, 54,3 kWh battery pack located under the cabin floor and rear seat, ensuring a low centre of gravity.

Power Control Unit (PCU): Leveraging know-how from Lexus Self-Charging Hybrids, the new PCU unit manages the flow of electrical energy within the car.

Regenerative braking: As on Lexus Self-Charging Hybrids, the UX 300e BEV is equipped with a regenerative braking system.

Transaxle: The motor/generator, speed reduction mechanism and differential are all housed in an ultra-compact, newly developed BEV transaxle.

(*) depending on options, such as wheel size etc.

PURE LINEAR ACCELERATION, ENGAGING 4-LEVEL DECELERATION

The UX 300e’s BEV system has been engineered to ensure the electric motor's powerful low-speed torque is maximized to deliver an instant linear response. Acceleration characteristics have also been optimised to suit urban driving situations: at low throttle (stop-start driving, etc.), the controllability of vehicle speed is prioritised, while at mid-to-high throttle (merging onto motorways, etc.), the focus is on continuous powerful acceleration.

To realise a refined drive, the UX 300e’s all-new PCU allows effortless driving with minimal accelerator input. In fact, Lexus engineers went so far as to ensure smooth acceleration even when the driver's accelerator pedal operations are slightly erratic. In addition, for a more comfortable ride, irregular vehicle speed fluctuations are reduced, even with varying road surface gradients.

For engaging performance in situations such as frequent stop-and-go driving in the city and navigating winding roads, the UX 300e’s deceleration can be controlled in four levels using the paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel.

PRECISION-ENGINEERED TRANSAXLE

For the UX 300e, Lexus engineers developed a compact new BEV transaxle to deliver class-leading drivetrain performance and exceedingly low noise levels. Featuring a 3-shaft layout and reduction gear mechanism to allow high motor speeds, the UX 300e design team left no stone unturned in creating this single speed transmission: areas of improvement included gear tooth surface polishing, adding a sound-proof cover and optimising the transaxle’s lubrication system.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE MOTOR / GENERATOR

Compact and lightweight, the UX 300e’s newly developed motor/generator was engineered to deliver the extremely refined power required for the first Lexus BEV. Realising both high output and efficiency, the rotor core shape has been optimised to accommodate high rotation speeds, while the rotor’s permanent magnets have been segmented to decrease current losses, thus reducing power consumption.

NEW POWER CONTROL UNIT (PCU)

For higher output and driving range, a compact new PCU has been developed. With all components redesigned to handle the large currents associated with a BEV, the PCU is installed on the engine compartment’s main cross member, thus reducing noise and vibrations. Lexus engineers also developed a new power card which is 36 per cent more compact than that on the UX 250h, thereby reducing the weight of the unit while extending the car’s driving range. The PCU also has a DC-DC converter that constantly supplies power from the BEV’s high-voltage system to its 12 V system.

ALL-NEW LITHIUM-ION BATTERY PACK

Installed under the cabin floor and rear seat, the UX 300e is powered by a newly developed 54,3 kWh battery pack made up of 288 large-capacity lithium ion battery cells. Carefully sized to offer an optimum balance of range and driving performance, the clever positioning of the battery allows for a large-capacity battery pack while also contributing to lowering the car's centre of gravity and creating 47 litres of additional luggage space compared to the UX 250h.

For maximum control, battery voltage sensors have been adopted to monitor the voltage of each battery cell and block, as well as the battery cell temperature. This enhanced level of battery voltage detection, in tandem with the car’s advanced Battery Management System, results in maximum usable battery cell capacity, leading to an extended driving range.

The UX 300e battery pack has also been cleverly integrated into the BEV’s body frame, while the cross members securing the pack contribute to its body strength. For a long and trouble-free service life, the battery pack is fitted with rubber seals to protect it from all forms of water and dust. For battery longevity, the UX 300e also features advanced cooling and heating systems.

BATTERY COOLING / AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Extreme heat reduces both battery life and BEV performance. For this reason, Lexus engineers working on the new UX 300e developed a sophisticated air-cooled system for the battery cells which is both safer and lighter than water-cooled systems and additionally provides air conditioning for the cabin. Benefitting from over 15 years of experience with hybrid batteries, refrigerated air ensures that stable battery output can be attained even under extreme battery load conditions, such as at high speed and during repeated rapid charging. With no danger of the leaks sometimes associated with liquid cooling, the system works by circulating cooled air inside the sealed battery pack. The system has been optimised to enhance the UX 300e's performance, battery life and charging performance as well as the interior comfort.

BATTERY HEATING SYSTEM

Because battery output decreases in cold weather, Lexus developed a heating element system under each of the battery modules. This minimises the impact of cold weather on the UX 300e’s driving range, ensuring full power is available from the start. With this heating system, maximum battery output can be achieved even in extremely cold conditions (-30°C), with a charging time reduced from 25 hours without the heating system to only 8h15. While the battery heaters are operating, the DC/DC converter decreases the high voltage output of the battery so that maximum power can be supplied to the 12V auxiliary power sources and heaters.

BATTERY DURABILITY AND RECYCLING

Designed to last the entire life of the UX 300e and equipped with an advanced battery management system, the lithium-ion battery pack delivers over 300 km of range and has been developed for minimum deterioration.

Importantly for the planet, when the UX 300e reaches the end of its life span, Lexus has a take-back scheme to ensure it is recycled safely and responsibly. Currently Lexus is retrieving more than 90 per cent of its batteries in Europe, but the aim is to achieve a 100 per cent take-back rate through all operations.

10-YEAR EXTENDED CARE ON BEV BATTERY

With all the above-mentioned measures, Lexus is confidently offering a 10-year (or up to 1.000.000 km) extended care on all functional defects of the BEV main battery and capacity degradation below 70%, provided that the regular health checks foreseen in the maintenance program are executed through the Lexus network. By default, a manufacturer warranty of 8 years (or 160.000 km) will apply only in case of degradation of the BEV battery capacity retention below 70%, and 5 years (or 100.000 km) on all functional defects of the BEV main battery.

In addition to the battery extended care, the UX 300e owner will benefit from the 3-year vehicle warranty and 5-year cover (or 100.000 km) on drivetrain defects.

SEAMLESS CHARGING TECHNOLOGY

A high-output, high-efficiency charging system offering excellent usability has been developed for the new UX 300e. To reduce running costs, it features a charger with a water-cooled cooling system, increasing the maximum output to 6,6 kW.

An AC charger port for normal charging is installed seamlessly on the right-side quarter panel of the UX 300e, whilst a DC charger port for rapid charging is fitted on the left side. For maximum comfort, the AC and DC charger ports feature a push-open type charger lid, making them easy to open. A charger inlet lamp is fitted to assist drivers charging at night and a charger lid lock system prevents opening and tampering by third parties. For added comfort, the ‘My Room’ mode (a Lexus first) enables electrical equipment such as air conditioning and audio to be used whilst the UX 300e is being charged.

AC CHARGING AT HOME OR ON PUBLIC CHARGERS

This charging method uses the AC outlet and charging cable that comes with the UX 300e, or the cable from a normal 6,6kW charger in the street. Home chargers (wallbox) use the same cable as the public charger. Interesting detail to mention is a clever maximum charge level setting that enables a user living at the top of a hill, for instance, to select a lower maximum charge level to ensure that just enough battery capacity remains after charging to allow for regenerative charging when descending the hill.

The UX 300e’s charging system also allows the owner to schedule charging times. For example, charging can start at a desired time, or be completed by a pre-set departure time, or can start at the same time every day, etc.

RAPID DC CHARGING ON THE MOVE

Using the DC charging inlet on the left side of the UX 300e, the owner can avail of the rapid chargers displayed in the Lexus Link app at shopping centres, petrol stations, in town centres or at most Lexus dealerships. Rapid DC charging enables much shorter charging times (0% to 80% in 50 minutes at 50kW or more) compared to normal charging.

4. ELECTRIFIED DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The new UX 300e delivers agile handling and pure, direct acceleration, giving the driver a great sense of confidence and precise control. With its low centre of gravity and all heavier components concentrated at the car’s centre, cornering enjoyment is enhanced, while the strengthened chassis and extra rigidity of the battery unit contribute to precise steering. Thanks to the car’s distinctive Lexus character - the result of expert tuning by two highly accomplished Takumi drivers - the UX 300e owner will enjoy pure linear acceleration along with four rhythmic and natural deceleration modes.

ENHANCED CHASSIS RIGIDITY

For class-leading steering precision and driving refinement, the high-performance level of the UX’s GA-C platform has been further enhanced by the extra rigidity of the UX 300e’s underfloor battery which is secured by cross members. An angular frame construction at the rear of the car and strengthened BEV transaxle mounting complete the UX 300e’s extremely rigid chassis.

ADVANCED POSTURE CONTROL

Newly developed shock absorbers for the UX 300e help create a linear steering feel and control vehicle posture. For models equipped with 18” wheels, the friction characteristics of the oil seals, rod guide, oil and piston band have been optimised, suppressing unnecessary movement of the sprung weight. Working with the Takumi drivers, the UX 300e’s suspension has been tuned to provide the appropriate wheel rate and damping to quell any uncomfortable pitching.

For a more direct and precise steering feel, a reinforcement brace has been added to the steering gearbox on the front suspension member. This addition ensures extra responsiveness the instant the driver begins to turn, realising the deep and clear steering feel that is characteristic of a Lexus.

UPGRADED BRAKES AND TYRES

On the UX 300e, ventilated discs are fitted front and rear, improving the braking performance of the first all-electric Lexus. The shape of the front brake dust cover has also been optimised to ensure excellent cooling performance.

Summer tyres, designed to achieve superior ride quality, are available on the UX 300e. The 18” tyres highlight the BEV’s quality feeling and quietness while emphasizing exceptional handling stability. The 17” tyres offer the lowest RRC (Rolling Resistance Coefficient) among similar tyres and provide both high responsiveness and excellent NV performance, while also contributing to a longer driving range.

CLASS-LEADING NVH LEVELS

While all BEVs are naturally quiet, the UX 300e goes the extra mile and suppresses nearly all outside disturbances such as wind and gravel noise which would be otherwise noticeable in a conventional car. The legendary Lexus focus on minimising NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) allows the driver to relax in the tranquillity of the UX 300e cabin. While the thickness and weight of the battery pack under the cabin floor act as a sound-insulating barrier, underfloor covers and fender liners have been added to reduce the amount of noise caused by contact with small stones, dirt, water and road. Completing the sense of tranquillity, acoustic glass has been used to reduce high frequency wind noise.

ACTIVE SOUND CONTROL (ASC)

Every element of the UX 300e driving experience has been electrified - from the smoothness of the drivetrain to the sophisticated cabin sound delivered by Active Sound Control (ASC). Created in collaboration with a professional composer, ASC creates an acceleration-sensitive BEV sound via the central speaker. Should the driver wish to travel in total tranquillity, ASC can be deactivated at the push of a button.

5. ELECTRIFIED OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE

A hallmark of all Lexus cars, the UX 300e uses innovative technology to make its owner’s life more enjoyable. These include advanced features such as heated seats for all occupants and a heated steering wheel for cold mornings. Or the Touch Pad-controlled 10,3-inch Lexus Premium Navigation with over-the-air map updates and seamless smartphone connectivity provided by Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®.

As well as creating ‘Lexus Electrified’ technologies for the car itself, the UX 300e development team were determined to offer customers a world-class connectivity and charging experience – at home, on the road and in the city. To achieve this, in true Japanese Genchi Genbutsu (‘go and see’) fashion, they first conducted extensive research into the behaviour and expectations of BEV owners.

‘LEXUS CHARGING NETWORK’ ACCESSED BY BESPOKE LEXUS LINK APP

Putting innovative technology at the heart of the UX 300e ownership experience, to achieve enjoyable and trouble-free driving in its first all-electric car, the Japanese luxury carmaker has launched a full-service solution called ‘Lexus Charging Network’. Developed together with Digital Charging Solutions GmbH*, a leader in the field of seamless and convenient digital charging solutions, with access to the largest charging network in Europe. The new service is accessible using the ‘Lexus Link‘ connectivity app that was created to complement the brand’s famed ‘Omotenashi’ service philosophy.

When fully rolled out, the new Lexus Charging Network will provide access to Europe’s largest network of around 160.000 public charging stations, allowing UX 300e drivers to check availability, charging speed and price per kWh. The Lexus Link’s Charging Station Finder quickly locates charging stations wherever owners drive in Europe and once they arrive at a charging station, they simply identify themselves using the Lexus Link app or an RFID card before charging.

Using the Lexus Charging Network, UX 300e owners will benefit from receiving only one contract and a single charging card for all participating charging stations, meaning they can charge in different countries without the need for a large number of cards or contracts with other providers. Payment is made via a single monthly invoice.

The UX 300e’s Lexus Link app offers advanced connectivity features:

REMOTE CHARGING

With the Lexus Link app, drivers can check the charge level of their UX 300e at a glance via their mobile phone or view the BEV’s range both when the air conditioning is on and off, enabling them to judge whether the battery needs to be charged before driving. When the car is charging on AC power at home, it is possible to remotely read the time until charging is complete. A timer can also be set in accordance with the owner's daily routine, to help ensure charging is completed before a planned departure time.

REMOTE DEFROSTER AND AIR CONDITIONING

The new UX300e gives the driver remote control of vehicle functions such as the defrosting and the air conditioning system that can be adjusted in 1°C increments from the comfort of the owner’s home or office. A defrost setting can clear screens and warm the car so no time is wasted when leaving home; likewise, the cabin can be cooled down ready for departure on a hot day. The system will run for up to 20 minutes, so operation can be synchronised with the time the owner wants to begin their journey.

CHARGING STATION FINDER

This feature helps the owner locate charging stations all over Europe close to the UX 300e's current location. Additionally, it is possible to search for other charging stations, check their address, opening hours and operational status. The location of a selected charging station can be shared with a navigation app or the UX 300e’s multimedia system.

ADVANCED URBAN CONNECTIVITY

Alongside BEV-related tasks, Lexus Link already includes many useful features:

• “Find my Car”: locates the UX 300e and guides the driver back to it.
• “Share to Car”: enables the driver to plan a route on another device and send it to their car, while ‘Car to Door’ guides them on foot to their final destination once they are parked.
• Driving Analytics: lets the driver track journeys, driving style and highlight business trips.
• Service and Maintenance: helps the driver manage the care of their UX 300e.
• Warning Lights: for added reassurance, this function explains the meaning of each warning light and any action that should be taken.

6. LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+

For class-leading safety performance and in common with the rest of the UX family, the new UX 300e is equipped with the second-generation Lexus Safety System +, which comes as standard equipment in all EU countries.

Lexus Safety System + is a suite of active safety technologies developed to support the driver and reduce the likelihood and severity of potential accidents. The system includes All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracing Assist with Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Intelligent High-Beam headlamps/Automatic High Beam (AHB) (or Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) as an option).

####

The “Lexus Electrified” vision targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment - even as mobility within our society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.

Evoking the original fun of driving, Lexus intends to use its 15 years of experience in electrification technologies to further evolve driving pleasure, and to fundamentally transform the essence of luxury vehicles of the future – creating a unique Lexus driving signature with exceptional ride comfort, quietness and craftsmanship.

Takashi Watanabe, Chief Engineer at Lexus, takes us through the key aspects of this “Lexus Electrified” strategy in an exclusive interview.

ABOUT TAKASHI WATANABE :

Takashi Watanabe started his career with Toyota in 1993 with engine systems development. He has worked on many different types of engines and exhaust systems. Since 2012, he has worked also on the development of several Lexus vehicles and became in 2017 leader of the Lexus Electrified Project.

In its continued efforts to deliver innovative and amazing experiences, Lexus unveils its vision for an upcoming generation of electrified vehicles, under the banner “Lexus Electrified".

Since the brand’s creation in 1989, Lexus has endeavored to deliver to its customers innovative and amazing product and brand experiences that stimulate the five senses. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has led the world as a pioneer in electrification technologies such as the two-stage reduction gear and the multi-stage hybrid system which leverage technology to offer excellent performance and the direct driving sensation characteristic of Lexus Hybrid vehicles.

The “Lexus Electrified” vision targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment - even as mobility within our society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.

Evoking the original fun of driving, Lexus is developing integrated motor control technology for advanced posture control and other electrification technologies to further evolve driving pleasure, and to fundamentally transform the essence of luxury vehicles of the future. Towards this end, Lexus is drawing on the lessons learned developing the core technologies found in Lexus’ popular range of self-charging hybrids, including battery management, power control modules, and electric motors.

In particular, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in hybrid vehicles. With this technology, we can control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. Lexus endeavors to continue providing enjoyable and safer driving vehicles.

To advance this goal, Lexus will bring to market in 2020 its first all-electric vehicle, the UX 300e – broadening our response to the needs of various regions around the world, including the development of HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs.

Moving forward after that, Lexus plans to expand its electrified vehicle lineup - we will launch our first Lexus PHEV and a new dedicated BEV (all-electric) platform early in this decade.

LEXUS LF-30 ELECTRIFIED HIGHLIGHTS

‘LF-30 Electrified’ new concept embodies the vision of Lexus’ electrification

The LF-30 Electrified concept vehicle embodies the “Lexus Electrified” vision. For its exterior styling, the advanced image expected of a BEV has been channeled into artistic qualities that result in a futuristic form, and an interior that assertively weaves in autonomous driving and other new technologies aims to manifest Lexus’ distinctive worldview.

Performance is rooted in Lexus Electrified components, adding Lexus’ latest technology to our leadership in development of HEV systems. Precise electric motor control enables instantaneous adjustments to posture not possible with conventional vehicles.

Furthermore, the LF-30 Electrified employs numerous advanced technologies with a look ahead to the year 2030 - such as a new-concept cockpit based on a human-centered design philosophy and a steer-by-wire system.

Futuristic exterior foreshadows the Lexus Electrified vehicles towards 2030

In taking up the challenge of expressing a new design that could only be achieved with a BEV powered by in-wheel electric motors, Lexus visually articulated the LF-30 Electrified’s unique energy flow. The vehicle form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the vehicle body streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface.

Taking advantage of a hoodless vehicle shape made possible by being a BEV, Lexus’ signature “spindle” form has been further evolved to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which continually stretches from the front to rear, the muscular fenders, and the wing-shaped headlights form the contours of the Lexus iconic spindle.

The shape of the body is fashioned with an elegantly flowing front which transitions into a linear and sharp rear. In addition to the wing-shaped headlights, the sharpness of the rear lights and side air intakes combine to achieve both excellent aerodynamics and cooling performance, resulting in styling fused with function.

The opacity of the side windows can be freely adjusted, providing occupants with expansive views of the surrounding scenery and a high level of privacy at night and in other situations.

The color of the front face of the vehicle and luminescence patterns help identify from the outside whether the vehicle is being operated in its normal mode or in its autonomous driving mode, reflecting Lexus’ pursuit of both a high level of styling and functionality. The exterior color ‘voltaic sky’ employs a leading-edge metal-infused coating to achieve a unique quality tinted by a touch of blue-green.

Innovative, interior that leverages autonomous driving technologies, a newly designed cockpit, and more

To manifest in a higher dimension Lexus’ fundamental human-centered philosophy, the cockpit was designed based on the new Lexus concept of “Tazuna”. Inspired by how a single rein can be used to achieve mutual understanding between horse and rider, the steering controller-mounted switches and head-up display have been coordinated to a high degree, creating a space that enables the driver to focus on driving while controlling various functions, such as the navigation and audio system and driving-mode selection, without having to shift one’s vision or operate manual switches.

As an indication of the future image of a Tazuna cockpit, the LF-30 Electrified employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality). The resulting interior is one that provides comfort and convenience for both driver and passengers.

With the layout of the front passenger seat echoing that of a first-class seat on an airliner, the interior is one in which a sense of openness and a sense of envelopment coexist. All switches and other controls being comfortably within reach and a gesture-control large-screen display for the passenger seat add to the achievement of interior comfort and convenience.

The rear seats use artificial muscle technology to mold to their occupant, and can support various modes such as reclining, relaxation, and alert functions.

A Mark Levinson^® audio system creates a next-generation listening environment, in which minute speaker control establishes ideal acoustic spaces for music listening pleasure for the driver and each passenger, and speakers built into the headrests not only provide an optimal audio environment but also have a noise-cancelling feature that contributes to enhanced quietness.

A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture controlled “SkyGate” display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favorite videos, and even navigation.

In addition to its unique design, the interior also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden. Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibers for use in creating the pleated door trim. This approach expresses Lexus’ distinctiveness and innovative spirit.

With in-wheel electric motors, steering by wire, and advanced posture control, the LF-30 can offer a dynamic experience unlike any currently available

To achieve a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment, the LF-30 employs numerous state-of-the-art technologies even beyond advanced posture control. In-wheel electric motors for each of the vehicle’s four wheels and low positioning of the battery enable better handling of inertia and high-level driving performance. Autonomous driving technologies and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to the year 2030 and the widely expanded value that vehicles can offer.

Integrated motor control technology regulates the drive-power output from high-torque electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities. Completely independent control of front and rear drive wheels allows appropriate provision of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation. Compact and lightweight drive-power units expand freedom in vehicle packaging and are used to provide the driver with the highest levels of comfort, at-will performance, safety, and confidence, regardless of the road surface or driving conditions.

Positioning advanced posture control as a core element of the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, Lexus intends to widely apply this technology throughout its lineup of electrified vehicles.

The steer-by-wire system eliminates a mechanical connection to allow more flexible turning control depending on driving conditions, and a more precise steering feel aligned with the driver’s intention. It also contributes to a greater sense of openness by allowing the steering controller can be shifted forward and out of the way during autonomous driving.

As a next-generation BEV, LF-30 uses wireless charging technology to simplify daily charging, and AI-based energy management to enable optimal distribution of electric power to both the vehicle and the home, and charging control coordinated with the user’s daily schedule.

Onboard AI distinguishes the voices of vehicle occupants, and uses personalized information stored on the driver’s control key to serve as a partner. It facilitates the adjustment of elements of the interior environment, such as air temperature and audio, and the setting of navigation routes and destinations, while also making proposals for activities after arrival. It also understands driver’s preferences and helps them control the suspension and powertrain settings in real-time according to the driving scene.

The LF-30 Electrified also carries the ‘Lexus Airporter’ drone-technology support vehicle. Using autonomous control, the Lexus Airporter is capable of such tasks as independently transporting baggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.

Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 Electrified features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. Occupants can enjoy both comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed.

Furthermore, a self-parking function and a front-door pickup function in which the LF-30 Electrified autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep provide an especially high level of convenience.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified main specifications

Lexus' first all-electric vehicle, the UX 300e, will make its European debut on March 3 at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show.

Since introducing the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer in vehicle electrification technology, playing a leading role in offering products that possess both performance and environmental friendliness. At the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus unveiled its global electrification strategy, called “Lexus Electrified”, which targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment.

In particular, the technology of ‘Lexus Electrified’ enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in hybrid vehicles. With this technology, we can control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. Lexus endeavours to continue providing enjoyable and safer driving vehicles.

As the first production model under the ‘Lexus Electrified’ banner, the all-electric UX 300e was developed for excellent on-road performance. Lexus engineers kept the distinctive design and the utility characteristics of the UX crossover intact and focused on the opportunities to build on the performance advantages unique to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The UX 300e’s high-output motor provides a natural-yet-brisk acceleration character, and the high-capacity batteries, located directly underneath the floor of the cabin, deliver a low centre of gravity and optimal driving range for such urban compact vehicle (400km in the Correlated NEDC cycle, corresponding to over 300km target range in the WLTP cycle). Combined with the newest connectivity technology, the UX 300e maximizes the advantages of BEVs while realizing driving performance and convenience in a single package. (Lexus’ “YET” philosophy)

The UX 300e will be launched in selected European markets in the second half of 2020, and from 2021 in the rest of Europe.

MAIN FEATURES

The first all-electric vehicle from Lexus embodies the refined driving performance and NVH of the brand’s DNA

Lexus has always focused on providing a distinctive driving performance, and the case is no different with development of a BEV. Starting from the refined Lexus driving signature of the UX, Lexus engineers were able to leverage the new electric drivetrain to even further enhance the vehicle’s on-road performance. At the same time, UX 300e has one of the quietest cabins in its class, as befits the sound management heritage of the Lexus DNA.

• UX 300e’s Drive Mode Select function lets customers manage smooth acceleration and deceleration according to their situation. Drivers can feel the powerful acceleration and instant torque of the BEV powertrain as they push the pedal and use the paddle shift in a similar manner as engine braking, through four levels of deceleration regeneration – all while enjoying a natural on-road feel.
• The UX 300e provides excellent dynamic performance thanks to the low centre of gravity resulting from motor and battery placement underneath the vehicle body, combined with optimized of front/rear weight distribution and moment of inertia.
• The high-performance level of the GA-C platform is enhanced with additional braces and optimization of the shock absorbers’ damping force to match the dynamic changes of electrification.
• While BEVs are naturally quiet, UX 300e adds insulation beyond just the battery and suppresses outside noises such as wind or pebbles which would be otherwise noticeable in the absence of an engine and transmission. Lexus focus on sound management lets drivers enjoy comfortable tranquillity in the cabin.

Legendary Lexus reliability inherited from hybrid heritage

In developing the UX 300e, Lexus utilized the knowledge acquired developing the brand’s industry-leading hybrid systems and applied the same level of quality and comfortable operation to its first production BEV. Battery reliability is outstanding, and everyday usability is optimised by using the latest connectivity technology and smartphone-based remote operations.

• The efficiency of the motor, inverter, gears and high-capacity battery were all maximized, utilizing the knowledge acquired developing hybrid vehicles.

• The batteries are equipped with a temperature management system that operates at low and high ambient temperatures. Reliability is also increased with the use of multiple monitoring systems that regulate charging and prevent conditions like overcharging.

• UX 300e offers the latest in connected car technology. By linking to a smartphone using the LexusLink app, drivers can check the battery state of charge and driving range. Charging controls are also included such as a timer function to inform the owner when the vehicle will be fully charged or to schedule the charging according to when the vehicle is expected to be driven next or when energy prices are low. The app also allows the owner to remotely control the climate of the car.

【UX 300e Motor specifications】

【UX 300e Battery specifications】

Featuring the distinctive design and high functionality of the original UX

Distinctive styling and high functionality from the Lexus UX compact crossover were passed on to the UX 300e, providing an excellent overall package.

• In addition to the bold and sophisticated exterior reminiscent of tough and agile driving, Lexus developed special aerodynamic wheels and underbody cover for the UX 300e.
• Location of the shift-by-wire system on the centre console contributes to the simplicity and functionality of the interior design.
• Lexus prioritizes the development of the most advanced safety technologies and quickly delivering them to drivers. UX 300e adopts Lexus Safety System+, as Lexus continues to pursue the prevention of accidents and fatalities, as well as decreasing driver stress and developing driver assist systems to provide a more natural and safe driving experience.

UX 300e KEY SPECIFICATIONS

* depending on battery temperature, usage history, charging stand (charger) and operating voltage.

Since introducing the RX 400h in 2005, LEXUS has been a pioneer in vehicle electrification technology, playing a leading role in offering products that possess both performance and environmental friendliness. At the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus unveiled its global electrification strategy, called “Lexus Electrified”, which targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment.

In particular, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in HV. With this technology, we can control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. Lexus endeavors to continue providing enjoyable and safer driving vehicles.

As the first production model under the Lexus Electrified banner, the all-electric UX 300e was developed for excellent on-road performance. Lexus engineers kept the distinctive design and the utility characteristics of the UX crossover intact, and focused on the opportunities to build on the performance advantages unique to EVs. The UX 300e’s high-output motor provides a natural-yet-brisk acceleration character, and the high-capacity batteries, located directly underneath the floor of the cabin, deliver a low center of gravity and 400km-driving range (NEDC). Combined with the newest connectivity technology, the UX 300e maximizes the advantages of EVs while realizing driving performance and convenience in a single package. (‘yet’ philosophy)

The UX 300e is scheduled to go on sale in the Chinese and European markets in 2020, and in Japan early in 2021.

MAIN FEATURES

The first EV from Lexus embodies the refined driving performance and NVH of the brand’s DNA

Lexus has always focused on providing a distinctive driving performance, and the case is no different with development of a BEV. Starting from the refined Lexus driving signature of the UX, Lexus engineers were able to leverage the new electric drivetrain to even further enhance the vehicle’s on-road performance. At the same time, UX 300e has one of the quietest cabins in its class, as befits the sound management heritage of the Lexus DNA.

• UX 300e’s Drive Mode Select function lets customers manage smooth acceleration and deceleration according to their situation. Drivers can feel the powerful acceleration and instant torque of the EV powertrain as they push the pedal, and use the paddle shift in a similar manner as engine braking, through four levels of deceleration regeneration – all while enjoying a natural on-road feel.
• The UX 300e provides excellent dynamic performance thanks to the low center of gravity resulting from motor and battery placement underneath the vehicle body, combined with optimized of front/rear weight distribution and moment of inertia.
• The high-performance level of the GA-C platform is enhanced with additional braces and optimization of the shock absorbers’ damping force to match the dynamic changes of electrification.
• While EVs are naturally quiet, UX 300e adds insulation beyond just the battery and suppresses outside noises such as wind or pebbles which would be otherwise noticeable in the absence of an engine and transmission. Lexus focus on sound management lets drivers enjoy comfortable tranquility in the cabin.
• Engineers also focused on sound while driving to provide a natural feeling. Active Sound Control (ASC) transmits natural ambient sounds to allow for understanding of driving conditions, and provides a natural feeling for the cabin’s occupants.

Legendary Lexus reliability inherited from hybrid heritage

In developing the UX 300e, Lexus utilized the knowledge acquired developing the brand’s industry-leading hybrid systems, and applied the same level of quality and comfortable operation to its first production EV as it always has with other vehicles. The Lexus engineering team delivered outstanding battery reliability, and also adopt the latest connectivity technology to maximize everyday usability and the functionality with smartphones.

• The efficiency of the motor, inverter, gears and high-capacity battery were all maximized, utilizing the knowledge acquired developing hybrid vehicles. By improving the performance of the entire system, the UX 300e’s driving range is an anxiety-free 400km.

• The batteries are equipped with a temperature management system that operates at low and high ambient temperatures. Reliability is also increased with the use of multiple monitoring systems that regulate charging and prevent conditions like overcharging.

• UX 300e offers the latest in connected car technology. By linking to a smartphone using the LexusLink app, drivers can check the battery state of charge and driving range. Charging controls are also included such as a timer function to inform the owner when the vehicle will be fully charged or to schedule the charging according to when the vehicle is expected to be driven next or when energy prices are low. The app also allows the owner to remotely control the climate of the car.

【UX 300e Motor specifications】

【UX 300e Battery specifications】

＊1. NEDC

Featuring the distinctive design and high functionality of the original UX

Distinctive styling and high functionality from the Lexus UX compact crossover were passed on to the UX 300e, providing an excellent overall package.

• In addition to the bold and sophisticated exterior reminiscent of tough and agile driving, Lexus developed special aerodynamic wheels and underbody cover for the UX 300e.
• Location of the shift-by-wire system on the center console contributes to the simplicity and functionality of the interior design.
• Lexus prioritizes the development of the most advanced safety technologies and quickly delivering them to drivers. UX 300e adopts Lexus Safety System+, as Lexus continues to pursue the prevention of accidents and fatalities, as well as decreasing driver stress and developing driver assist systems to provide a more natural and safe driving experience.

# # #

Thirty years have passed since Lexus was born in the United States. Since then, the brand has continued to grow with outstanding quality, hospitality and a spirit of challenge.

Lexus has always anticipated people's needs and rolled out numerous models such as luxury SUV pioneer RX to provide luxury lifestyle experiences.

However, a somewhat shocking incident did occur that helped shift our history. It was in 2011 at Pebble Beach when we first showcased the all-new GS. One journalist commented "Lexus is boring brand". The comment shocked Akio Toyoda so much that he swore " we will never let anyone say Lexus is boring again".

Following this incident, Akio established the Lexus International company. And He himself became Chief Branding Officer as well as Master Driver to help drive bold brand and product reform. Within Lexus, we realized that our entrepreneur's challenging spirit was disappearing over the time. So, this was a renewed challenge for us.

In Akio's heart, he wants the brand to be something our customers finally choose over other luxury brands. For that, Akio strongly believe that we need to nurture gracefulness for the brand in addition to achieve high driving performance and exquisite quality.

The challenger mindset is the foundation of Lexus. The first-generation LS was born to redefine the Luxury sedan and this model surprised with high quality, comfort and overwhelming refinement.

Since the 2011 moment, Lexus has been relentlessly challenging to stimulate the five senses. We engaged to various activities to become a luxury lifestyle brand.

At this year's Tokyo Motor Show, we present "Lexus Senses Theatre", a space where people can experience the "stimulation of the five senses".

In the audio theatre, the sensual engine sound of Lexus LFA stimulates hearing. In the visual theatre, the beauty of Lexus LC , which changes its appearance according to the time of day and the viewing angle, is highlighted. Please come and enjoy this real experience.

In addition to providing experiences to customers, a luxury brand need to meet social responsibility for better future.

The vision of automobiles and mobility for a better society is being redefined. We try to offer a luxury brand that provides unique values.

The foundation of our brand activities is rooted from the concept of being "human-centered." Using advanced safety technology as an example, we constantly strive to produce higher safety standards, including easy-to-understand interfaces between humans and cars, and develop driving behavior that brings safety, security and confidence.

As a part of our achievements, we plan to launch a model equipped with Lexus Teammate, an advanced driving assist technology, in 2020.

The Lexus brand will continue to value the stimulation of the five senses and bond with the life of each one of us.

In order for us to contribute to enhancing our customer's lives, vehicles will need to keep playing a vital role. In Japan, we sometimes call our car "Aisha", which literary means "beloved car".

For Lexus, Aisha refers to our central philosophy for crafting vehicles that people are not just merely interested in and passionate about, but something that people can actually bond with.

We aim to provide vehicles that will be enjoyed and cherished, which will exceed their expectations, thereby imparting a rich lifestyle by stimulating the five senses. Lexus is unwavering in this mission.

Another message is about future electrification technologies. At Lexus, we are building upon our fundamental mission, which is to deliver higher levels of driver engagement and help incite a passion for driving, and elaborate upon it further. Finally, we aim to fundamentally change the concept of future luxury vehicles.

Lexus is already at the forefront globally as a leader in hybrid technologies. We are confident that Lexus will continue to be cutting-edge, backed by core technologies, including batteries, motors and power controls, that are essential components for electrified vehicles. Based on this idea, we came up with the name Lexus Electrified to define our brand's electrification vision.

The LF-30 Electrified is a concept car that embodies our Lexus Electrified vision. The concept car is a BEV with an automated driving function while also possessing the intuitive values of a car. This is one realization of our Yet philosophy.

We created the concept car design by realizing an advanced image expected of BEVs and incorporating the advanced technologies of connectivity and automated driving.

The Lexus LF-30 Electrified uses a new technology, we call it Lexus Advanced Posture Control. This integrates the pinnacle of electrification technologies and movement control technologies that Lexus has been developing. With precise control of the motors, the technologies enable us to realize drive-control that conventional gasoline vehicles cannot attain.

As the ultimate form, the concept car is equipped with four in-wheel-motors.

The LF-30 Electrified employs various core technologies beyond Lexus Advanced Posture Control.

To advance this goal, Lexus is developing HV, PHV, FCV other than EV to meet the needs of various regions and markets depending on their condition such as governmental policies and energy situation. We will launch such models immediately to markets like Europe and China where the needs are particularly high.

Concretely speaking, we will introduce the first Lexus BEV model next month on an existing vehicle architecture and start selling it in 2020. Then, PHV and BEV build upon a dedicated EV platform will follow in the early half of the 2020s.

Furthermore, we will continue make advances in our core HV technologies and also continue to develop FC technology as our overall electrification strategy.

Finally, around 2025 we expect to offer an electrified variant of each model in our line-up.

As we mark this 30-year milestone, we plan to further accelerate the electrification of vehicles while providing customers with a richer lifestyle, and elevated driver engagement. Please keep watching to see what Lexus will have to offer going forward.

TOKYO, JAPAN (October 23, 2019) – In its continued efforts to deliver innovative and amazing experiences, Lexus unveiled its “Lexus Electrified" vision for an upcoming generation of electrified vehicles. Headlining this moment was the debut of the Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept, which made its world premiere at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019.

Since the brand’s creation in 1989, Lexus has endeavored to deliver to its customers innovative and amazing product and brand experiences that stimulate the five senses. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has led the world as a pioneer in electrification technologies such as the two-stage reduction gear and the multi-stage hybrid system which leverage technology to offer excellent performance and the direct driving sensation characteristic of Lexus Hybrid vehicles.

The “Lexus Electrified” vision unveiled today targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment -- even as mobility within our society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.

Evoking the original fun of driving, Lexus is developing new advanced posture control and other electrification technologies to further evolve driving pleasure, and to fundamentally transform the essence of luxury vehicles of the future. Towards this end, Lexus is drawing on the lessons learned developing the core technologies found in Lexus’ popular range of gasoline-electric hybrids, including battery management, power control modules, and electric motors. In particular, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in HV. With this technology, we can control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. Lexus endeavors to continue providing enjoyable and safer driving vehicles.

To advance this goal, Lexus plans to unveil its first BEV in November 2019 – broadening our response to the needs of various regions around the world, including the development of HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs. Moving forward after that, Lexus plans to expand its electrified vehicle lineup - we will launch our first Lexus PHEV and a new dedicated BEV platform early in the coming decade. By 2025, Lexus will have available electrified versions of all Lexus vehicle models, and we are aiming for the sales of electrified vehicle models to outpace those of conventional internal combustion engine vehicle models.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified highlights

‘LF-30 Electrified’ new concept embodies the vision of Lexus’ electrification

The LF-30 Electrified concept vehicle embodies the “Lexus Electrified” vision. For its exterior styling the advanced image expected of a BEV has been channeled into artistic qualities that result in a futuristic form, and an interior that assertively weaves in autonomous driving and other new technologies aims to manifest Lexus’ distinctive worldview. Performance is rooted in Lexus Electrified components, adding Lexus’ latest technology to our leadership in development of HEV systems. Precise electric motor control enables instantaneous adjustments to posture not possible with conventional vehicles. Furthermore, the LF-30 Electrified employs numerous advanced technologies with a look ahead to the year 2030- such as a new-concept cockpit based on a human-centered design philosophy and a steer-by-wire system.

Futuristic exterior foreshadows the Lexus Electrified vehicles towards 2030

In taking up the challenge of expressing a new design that could only be achieved with a BEV powered by in-wheel electric motors, Lexus visually articulated the LF-30 Electrified’s unique energy flow. The vehicle form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the vehicle body streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface.

Taking advantage of a hoodless vehicle shape made possible by being a BEV, Lexus’ signature “spindle” form has been further evolved to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which continually stretches from the front to rear, the muscular fenders, and the wing-shaped headlights form the contours of the Lexus iconic spindle. The shape of the body is fashioned with an elegantly flowing front which transitions into a linear and sharp rear. In addition to the wing-shaped headlights, the sharpness of the rear lights and side air intakes combine to achieve both excellent aerodynamics and cooling performance, resulting in styling fused with function.

The opacity of the side windows can be freely adjusted, providing occupants with expansive views of the surrounding scenery and a high level of privacy at night and in other situations. The color of the front face of the vehicle and luminescence patterns help identify from the outside whether the vehicle is being operated in its normal mode or in its autonomous driving mode, reflecting Lexus’ pursuit of both a high level of styling and functionality. The exterior color ‘voltaic sky’ employs a leading-edge metal-infused coating to achieve a unique quality tinted by a touch of blue-green.

Innovative, interior that leverages autonomous driving technologies, a newly designed cockpit, and more

To manifest in a higher dimension Lexus’ fundamental human-centered philosophy, the cockpit was designed based on the new Lexus concept of “Tazuna”. Inspired by how a single rein can be used to achieve mutual understanding between horse and rider, the steering controller-mounted switches and head-up display have been coordinated to a high degree, creating a space that enables the driver to focus on driving while controlling various functions, such as the navigation and audio system and driving-mode selection, without having to shift one’s vision or operate manual switches. As an indication of the future image of a Tazuna cockpit, the LF-30 Electrified employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality). The resulting interior is one that provides comfort and convenience for both driver and passengers.

With the layout of the front passenger seat echoing that of a first-class seat on an airliner, the interior is one in which a sense of openness and a sense of envelopment coexist. All switches and other controls being comfortably within reach and a gesture-control large-screen display for the passenger seat add to the achievement of interior comfort and convenience.

The rear seats use artificial muscle technology to mold to their occupant, and can support various modes such as reclining, relaxation, and alert functions. A Mark Levinson^® audio system creates a next-generation listening environment, in which minute speaker control establishes ideal acoustic spaces for music listening pleasure for the driver and each passenger, and speakers built into the headrests not only provide an optimal audio environment but also have a noise-cancelling feature that contributes to enhanced quietness.

A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture controlled “SkyGate” display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favorite videos, and even navigation.

In addition to its unique design, the interior also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden. Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibers for use in creating the pleated door trim. This approach expresses Lexus’ distinctiveness and innovative spirit.

With in-wheel electric motors, steering by wire, and Lexus Advanced Posture Control, the LF-30 can offer a dynamic experience unlike any currently available

To achieve a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment, the LF-30 employs numerous state-of-the-art technologies even beyond advanced posture control. In-wheel electric motors for each of the vehicle’s four wheels and low positioning of the battery enable better handling of inertia and high-level driving performance. Autonomous driving technologies and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to the year 2030 and the widely expanded value that vehicles can offer.

Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology regulates the drive-power output from high-torque electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities. Completely independent control of front and rear drive wheels allows appropriate provision of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation. Compact and lightweight drive-power units expand freedom in vehicle packaging and are used to enable the driver to enjoy ideal driving, regardless of the road surface or driving conditions.

Positioning Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology as a core element of the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, Lexus intends to widely apply this technology throughout its lineup of electrified vehicles.

The steer-by-wire system eliminates a mechanical connection to allow more flexible turning control depending on driving conditions, and a more precise steering feel aligned with the driver’s intention. It also contributes to a greater sense of openness by allowing the steering controller can be shifted forward and out of the way during autonomous driving.

As a next-generation BEV, LF-30 uses wireless charging technology to simplify daily charging, and AI-based energy management to enable optimal distribution of electric power to both the vehicle and the home, and charging control coordinated with the user’s daily schedule.

Onboard AI distinguishes the voices of vehicle occupants, and uses personalized information stored on the driver’s control key to serve as a partner. It facilitates the adjustment of elements of the interior environment, such as air temperature and audio, and the setting of navigation routes and destinations, while also making proposals for activities after arrival. It also understands driver’s preferences and helps them control the suspension and powertrain settings in real-time according to the driving scene.

The LF-30 Electrified also carries the ‘Lexus Airporter’ drone-technology support vehicle. Using autonomous control, the Lexus Airporter is capable of such tasks as independently transporting baggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.

Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 Electrified features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. Occupants can enjoy both comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed. Furthermore, a self-parking function and a front-door pickup function in which the LF-30 Electrified autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep provide an especially high level of convenience.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified main specifications :

In addition to the LF-30 Electrified exhibition, the Lexus booth at Tokyo Motor Show will contain “Lexus Senses theatre”, a space where people can experience the “stimulation of the five senses”. It consists of two experience spaces, audio and visual. In Theater 1, the sensual engine sound of Lexus LFA stimulates hearing with 360degree 3D sound.

Theater 2 offers a visually stimulating experience with the Lexus LC model by projection mapping - which changes its appearance according to the time of day and the viewing angle. In this booth layout you can appreciate the Lexus philosophy, while enjoying sensory stimulation through “real experience”.

*The 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019 is to be held at Tokyo Big Site in Tokyo's waterfront area from October 23 through November 4, with press days on October 23 and 24, a special invitation day on October 24, a preview day on October 25, and general public days from October 25 to November 4.

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Leveraging continued advances in technologies such as electrification and autonomous driving, the electrified concept offers a glimpse into Lexus’ future vision, which caters to consumers who are equally passionate about driving and uniquely crafted luxury experiences.

< Motor Show Information for Reference: >

Tokyo Big Sight International Exhibition Centre

Press day: October 23-24

Special-invitation, Preview, and Official day: October 24

General-public days: from October 25 to November 4.

To find out more, visit: http://www.tokyo-motorshow.com/en/

*Battery Electric Vehicle