• Completion of another successful festival with Lexus as Sponsor and Official Car 
• Stars of the movie world accompanied to red carpet events by Lexus’ fleet of electrified luxury models 
• Showcase for a preview of the all-new Lexus ES sedan 
• Presentation of the Lexus Visionary Award at Venice Film Week’s Reply AI Film Festival 

The 82^nd Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia – has reached its conclusion with the competition jury awarding the prestigious Golden Lion to Jim Jarmusch, director of the feature Father Mother Sister Brother. This year’s edition maintained the festival’s fine tradition of presenting audiences with films that excited and stirred the emotions.

Artists, creators and international guests were once again accompanied to red carpet events at the Palazzo del Cinema by cars from Lexus’ electrified range. As a Sponsor and the festival’s Official Car, Lexus provided a fleet of 30 luxury vehicles, ranging from the compact UX to the spacious NX and RX SUVs, together with the pure electric RZ crossover.

Travelling the roads around the Venice Lido, they demonstrated the breadth of Lexus’ electrification technologies, with full hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric models. This multi-technology approach is based on Lexus’ belief that there is no single solution for sustainable mobility and that a range of options are required to suit different users’ requirements. 

This year’s festival provided a high-profile showcase for a preview of the next Lexus innovation, the all-new ES flagship sedan. This upcoming model is rich in the qualities that define the Lexus brand, with exceptional attention to detail, precision craftsmanship and the application of advanced technologies for performance, safety, connectivity and comfort.

The festival experience reaffirmed the connection between Lexus and the world of film-making with their common desire to deliver unique and unforgettable experiences, whether on a grand scale, or in small but telling details.

The Lexus Visionary Award

It is in this shared creative spirit that Venice Film Week 2025 saw the presentation of the Lexus Visionary Award. This was a special prize in the second edition of the Reply AI Film Festival, an international competition is for creatives, directors and video makers producing short films using Artificial Intelligence tools. The festival jury was chaired by Italian film director and screenwriter Gabriele Muccino and included Paolo Moroni, Director of Lexus Italy.

Paolo Moroni had the honour of presenting the Lexus Visionary Award to Marcello Costa Jr. for his work “Instinct”.

Through its participation in the Reply AI Film Festival, Lexus sought to promote innovation as a tool for creating works that stimulate authentic emotions and a deep sense of connection. As AI helps cinema evolve, so Lexus is also exploring new technological languages to transform the driving experience.

At the conclusion of the festival, Paolo Moroni said: “This is also the end of an extraordinary event for Lexus. Every year, Venice Film Week produces the kind of unique emotions that we want to give to customers when they experience our brand. We are proud to have taken part in this prestigious international event and to have accompanied its most illustrious guests to the red carpet. It was also an exceptional opportunity for us to present a preview of our new flagship ES and share our concept of mobility based on “Making Luxury Personal,” with personalised details that anticipate customers’ needs and preferences and create an even more exciting and rewarding driving experience.”
 

• New special version of Lexus’ top-selling compact crossover 
• Focus on sporty, dynamic style that enhance the model’s “one segment up” qualities 
• Black-themed exterior design details, including matt-finish 18-inch alloy wheels 
• Bi-tone and monotone paint finish options 
• Luxurious semi-aniline leather upholstery in Black and contrasting Dark Rose 
• High equipment specification including power-adjustable driver’s seat, 64-colour ambient cabin lighting, wireless charger, nanoe-X air quality technology, and paddle shift sequential gear selection 
• Limited edition model with production run from September 2025 to May 2026 

Since its 2023 launch, the LBX has delivered on its promise to introduce an exciting new dimension to the Lexus brand and draw in thousands of new customers intrigued and attracted by the small SUV’s fresh “premium casual” approach to style and luxury. Those qualities are being reaffirmed and enhanced with the announcement of a special LBX version, the upcoming new Vibrant Edition.

As its name suggests, the Vibrant Edition gains eye-catching styling details that emphasise the LBX’s modern, street-smart looks. Adding yet more choice to the rich and diverse LBX range, it’s a perfect expression of the Lexus’ principle of “making luxury personal”.

Andre Schmidt, Head of Lexus Europe, commented: “The LBX has quickly established itself as a core model for Lexus in Europe, building a strong presence in new market territory and succeeding in its key role to bring new customers to our brand. It is already our second best-selling model, with more than 23,000 sales achieved in 2024. With the new Vibrant Edition, we are increasing choice and adding exclusive styling features that enhance its sporty, dynamic look. We are confident it will further enhance the LBX’s proven ability to attract conquest customers as an authentic Lexus, just smaller in size.” 

Dedicated new features strengthen the sporty, agile credentials of the LBX Emotion model, including 18-inch matt black alloy wheels, black front and rear lip spoilers, black window and door mouldings and piano black insets in the bumpers. There is also a black chrome finish to the garnish above the front grille and the grille itself has jet black plating – inspired by the high-performance LBX RR Morizo concept model.

Three exterior colour-ways are available: bi-tone options combining an Astral Black roof and pillars with Ruby Red or Sonic Quartz bodywork, and a monotone Astral Black finish. As a finishing touch, the model’s special status is expressed by Vibrant Edition badging on the rear pillars.

In the cabin, the city SUV’s “vibrant” character is captured by Black semi-aniline leather upholstery with contrasting Dark Rose bolsters, shoulder sections, knee pads and centre console and front door arm rests. The sporty feel and Lexus craftsmanship luxury are evoked by red double-track Tatami feature stitching on the seatbacks and Dark Rose seat belts.

The LBX’s “class above” quality is reflected in a high equipment specification. Key features include an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, ambient cabin lighting with a spectrum of 64 different colours, wireless charger, nanoe-X air quality technology, and paddle shifts for “Shiftmatic” manual sequential gear selection.

The Vibrant Edition is equipped with the latest Lexus hybrid system, featuring an ultra-efficient 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, producing a maximum 136 DIN hp/ 100 kW. As the most compact model in the current Lexus range, it is ideally suited to navigating urban streets, with an elevated view from the driver’s seat and a tight, 10.4 m turning circle.

The new Lexus LBX Vibrant Edition will be a limited edition with planned production from September 2025 to May 2026 only.
 

Lexus continues its strong association with cinema, announcing that it is a Sponsor and Official Car of the 82^nd Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia – for a ninth consecutive year.

The international luxury brand shares a common spirit with the world of film, bringing passion, innovation and creativity to its car design and pursuit of ever-new sustainable mobility.  Lexus’ presence at the Venice International Film Festival thus represents its desire to embrace the future now with cutting edge and sustainable technology solutions.

From 27 August to 6 September, the Venice Lido will become a crossroads between cinema and automotive innovation, with a fleet of electrified Lexus vehicles providing luxury transport for directors, actors, creatives and VIP guests. The cars will demonstrate Lexus’ well-established multi-technology approach to reducing carbon, including battery electric RZ, plug-in hybrid NX and full hybrid RX, LBX, ES and UX models.

For this festival edition, the spotlight will be on the all-new, all-electric ES sedan which, like a true movie star, will enjoy its own red carpet preview. The model combines elegance and technology and is a perfect expression of Lexus’ Making Luxury Personal concept. This is tailor-made luxury that adapts to the demands of an evolving market, providing innovative, engaging and memorable experiences just like a well-made film.

Paolo Moroni, Director of Lexus Italy, said: “Innovation is integral to Lexus’ brand DNA, going beyond technology to include creativity, sustainability and always making the customer the centre of what we do. We share these qualities with the world of cinema, which is why we are proud to partner La Biennale di Venezia for the 82^nd Venice International Film Festival.

“It will be a privilege this year to again accompany actors and directors for their red carpet appearances with our fleet of electrified luxury vehicles. Our presence at the festival is also an expression of our commitment to the future, elevating the driving experience, redefining the standards of mobility and respecting the environment.”

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.

The Lexus LBX compact crossover, the LM luxury people carrier and the all-terrain GX full-scale SUV are completely different propositions, but at heart each one is truly “Lexus”.  They are taking Lexus into new market segments and giving customers the opportunity to personalise their luxury choices. They exemplify the qualities that are the essence of Lexus as an international luxury brand and support its “experience amazing” ethos.

Central to this is Omotenashi, the uniquely Lexus interpretation of the best traditions of Japanese hospitality. That means for driver and passengers alike, every need is anticipated and taken care of in a safe, welcoming and rewarding experience. Its influence extends from on-board comfort and well-being to seamless connectivity, comprehensive safety provisions the focused design of the driver’s cockpit.

Luxury craftsmanship is another distinguishing element in the Lexus ownership, with an attention to detail that is rooted in the finely honed skills of the Takumi craftspeople.

Moreover, the latest models go further in Lexus’ mission to “make luxury personal,” giving customers greater opportunities to specify their vehicle in a way that better reflects their individual preferences and character. This includes a move away from the established formalities of prestige cars to offer something that better fits more modern perceptions of what luxury means, with a more relaxed and casual feel.

To showcase their individual qualities and capabilities and to provide a first-hand insight into today’s Lexus brand, the LBX, LM and GX were recently brought together in an adventure programme in New Zealand. Influencers and lifestyle specialists from Europe and beyond were immersed in an authentic Lexus “amazing experience” that took them through spectacular landscapes of the South Island and introduced them to the richness of the local nature, culture and cuisine.

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Lexus LBX: redefining luxury craftsmanship in its class

The LBX is a game-changing model, the most compact Lexus model yet and one which brings authentic Lexus luxury to a whole new audience for the brand. This is a compact crossover that makes luxury personal, offering a wealth of choice, premium equipment features and a great driving experience, all with a more casual, contemporary feel. It’s a proposition that European customers have responded to in their thousands, putting the LBX firmly on course to become Lexus’ top-selling model in the region.

Lexus LM: redefining luxury transport

Lexus designed the LM – its “luxury mover” – to deliver the ultimate in luxury travel. It is a car in its class of its own, a people carrier where every detail of the on-board experience is focused on the comfort and well-being the occupants. Wherever the journey takes you, the atmosphere inside the LM is guaranteed to always be calm, quiet and supremely comfortable. The passengers ride in airline-style seats, with access to a 48-inch widescreen monitor and bespoke 23-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound system at their fingertips. The Lexus Climate Concierge ensures optimum temperature and air quality are maintained at all times.

Lexus GX: redefining the authentic off-roader with luxury

The all-new GX is a perfect illustration of the breadth of choice offered by today’s Lexus range. It is an authentic off-roader with imposing looks, all-terrain capabilities, combined with the luxury, driving rewards and advanced technologies that are key to every Lexus model. It’s a car that’s engineered for adventure, capable of mastering all kinds of challenging terrain: wherever the drive takes you, on smooth, fast roads or wilder trails, the Lexus GX can be relied on as the truest and most trusted partner.

For more information on these and all other new Lexus models, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars

Its status as a serious SUV made it a key contributor to a recent Lexus adventure programme in New Zealand, where guests were immersed in the local culture, cuisine and natural world. Joining the GX were the all-new LBX compact crossover and the LM “luxury mover,” giving guests first-hand insights into what Lexus’ “experience amazing” means and the breadth of its product offering.

The GX will carry you in comfort and with confidence to unexplored territories and New Zealand provided the ideal landscapes and challenging routes to demonstrate these qualities . It’s a car that’s engineered for adventure, capable of mastering all kinds of challenging drives, while respecting the integrity and quality of the natural environment. This is helped by a Multi-Terrain Select system where the car’s performance can be optimised at the touch of a switch for surfaces ranging from deep snow and mud to sand and rocks. Furthermore, with the benefit of the Multi-Terrain Monitor, you’re given a complete view of the area around and beneath vehicle so you can position the GX with confidence in extreme situations.

At the same time, the GX is essentially a Lexus. That means attention to every detail and luxury made personal with distinctive contemporary design, Takumi craftsmanship and the uniquely Lexus Omotenashi approach to comfort and convenience that enhances the well-being of driver and passengers. This is witnessed in features such as specially developed seats that are shaped for perfect support when off-roading, upholstered in fine leather and a focused Lexus Tazuna cockpit, with controls and information sources organised for quick, intuitive operation, whatever the driving conditions.

For those who want to go even further, the GX Overtrail model is designed and equipped to take even more extreme environments in its stride, but with no sacrifice of luxury quality or comfort.  Its special off-road-focused features include a wider track, dedicated 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tyres and an intelligent electronic suspension system. The bodywork is adapted, too, with details shaped to help avoid contact with bushes and rocks when heading off-road.

Wherever the drive takes you, on smooth, fast roads or wilder trails, the Lexus GX can be relied on as the truest and most trusted partner, responding instantly and faithfully to the driver’s use of the steering wheel, brakes and throttle. The rewards are control, comfort and confidence at all times, and a sense of being at one with the vehicle.

In Europe, the GX is available in eastern markets: Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia.

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/gx

When it set out to create the new LM people carrier, Lexus set the goal of delivering the ultimate in luxury travel: four-wheeled transport that achieves a level of sophistication and exclusivity more frequently associated with world of private jets. Taking a no-compromise approach, it has succeeded in delivering a unique “Luxury Mover,” a vehicle that is truly in a class of its own.

Wherever the road – crowded city street or sweeping mountain pass – the atmosphere inside the LM is guaranteed to always be calm, quiet and supremely comfortable. It’s the perfect expression of Omotenashi, the Japanese hospitality principle, that’s central to Lexus, where your every need is anticipated and seamlessly catered for.

Omotenashi is one of the ways in which Lexus seeks to provide its customers with Amazing Experiences and it made the LM a worthy participant in a recent Lexus adventure programme in New Zealand. Here, guests were able to experience a Lexus spirit of adventure that combines a great driving experience with luxury and comfort. They were immersed in the local culture, cuisine and natural world, travelling through breathtaking landscapes in three all-new, contrasting models: the LM, the LBX crossover and the GX luxury off-roader. The event illustrated the breadth of Lexus innovation and the brand’s diversification into vibrant new market areas.

Guests travelled as passengers along routes through spectacular natural landscapes, enjoying panoramic views from the twin rear seats in the top-of-the range model. This four-seat version of the LM takes Omotenashi design, technologies and features to the maximum. The rear passenger seats are upholstered in finest L-aniline leather and are equipped with extending ottomans to support the lower legs and integrated heating, ventilation and massage functions. They also recline airline-style to fully horizontal should you want to take a break during the journey. Lexus Climate Concierge monitors each passenger’s body temperature to help maintain an ideal cabin temperature and air quality.

The cabin is insulated from any unwelcome external noise, yet offers a “natural silence” more like you would find in a quiet New Zealand forest than an acoustically perfect recording studio. And if the view outside doesn’t capture your attention, a 48-inch high-definition widescreen monitor can be used for streaming movies, or online meetings. The hospitality aspect also includes innovative technologies such as a 23-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound audio system, tailor-made for the LM, folding tables and power doors and sunshades. And if you need a cooling drink during the journey, a 14-litre refrigerator can accommodate plenty of liquid refreshment.

Equal attention has been paid to the engineering aspects of the vehicle, with a smooth, refined and powerful self-charging hybrid system and suspension that maintains poise and comfort in all conditions. It is also an all-new vehicle from the ground up, and – unlike many other people carriers – not a passenger vehicle that has been adapted from a van model base.

In addition to the four-seat version, the LM range includes a seven-seat model that brings another level of luxury to chauffeur-driven executive transport. The rear cabin features two VIP seats and a two-plus-one second row seating arrangement that can be folded away to provide extra load space when not in use. Features include semi-aniline leather seats, the Lexus Climate Concierge, a 14-inch drop-down rear monitor, a folding table and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound audio system.

The LM can be classified as a new kind of limousine for the modern age, where business, leisure and relaxation can overlap in a single journey and where peace, quiet and privacy are the most highly valued luxury qualities.

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/lm

In just its first year of sales, the Lexus LBX has held true to its promise of changing the face of luxury motoring, delivering premium quality and style without compromise in a compact crossover that’s eminently stylish, affordable and appealing to a whole new audience for the Lexus brand. It’s Lexus’ relentless focus on quality – both physical and perceived – in every detail that distinguish the LBX from its competitors.

In terms of simple dimensions, it’s the smallest Lexus yet, but its size has been no barrier to making this a model that redefines the meaning of luxury in its class. It offers more than simply a wealth of choice in premium equipment features and a great driving experience; it delivers Lexus’ exceptional craftsmanship and human-centred Omotenashi hospitality. This is achieved with a more casual, contemporary feel that captures changing popular perceptions of what luxury means.

It shifts the dial for the brand, diversifying its product range with new thinking to shape a fresh future for Lexus and its customers.

It’s a proposition that European customers have responded to in their thousands, putting the LBX firmly on course to become Lexus’ top-selling model in the region.

While its agile, highly manoeuvrable character makes it a natural for urban streets, it’s just at home on the open road, as a recent expedition in the breathtaking mountain landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island reveals.

Lexus vehicles are conceived to open up the possibilities of amazing experiences for their owners – in the case of the LBX, making the “everyday extraordinary”. To demonstrate what this means in practice, Lexus headed to New Zealand for an adventure programme which immersed guests, including influencers and lifestyle commentators from around the world, in the rich and varied local culture, cuisine, nature and outdoor pursuits. The itinerary combined off-road trails, remote scenic roads as well as exploration by air and water, introducing the adventurers to the natural wonders of this distant land.

Capturing the spirit of a Lexus “Amazing Experience,” the event illustrated the diversity and wide appeal of Lexus’ current product portfolio, showcasing the latest all-new models: the LBX, the GX off-roader and the LM “luxury mover”. 

Moving away from the traditions of premium quality motoring, Lexus has made luxury personal with the new LBX, giving each customer the chance to create a car that best suits their individual style. That’s accomplished with discerning and distinctive range of options, from bold exterior colours to different interior upholsteries, textures and trims. Forget the concept of the structured model range: the LBX line-up instead offers a different Atmosphere for each version – Cool, Relax, Elegant and Emotion – where the focus is on character, appearance and feel rather than simply the level of equipment features.

The tech dimension extends from the latest, super-efficient hybrid powertrains to seamless onboard connectivity and multimedia experience, including wireless smartphone integration and cloud-based navigation that benefits from moment-by-moment traffic intelligence. There is also the peace of mind provided by the same Lexus Safety System + advanced and intelligent safety and assistance systems found on all Lexus models, supporting the driver at every step of the journey.

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/lbx

• A new multisensory installation and limited-edition capsule collection explore the material innovation, responsive technology and personalization at the core of Lexus' luxury design

Today, Lexus unveils Liminal Cycles, a multisensory and responsive installation created in collaboration with Bratislava-based research and design studio Crafting Plastics. Presented in partnership with the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami), the installation embodies Lexus’ exploration of material innovation, responsive technology and personalization, drawing inspiration from the Lexus LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero Catalyst) Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) concept car.

Coinciding with the unveiling of Liminal Cycles, Lexus officially launches its limited-edition capsule collection, featuring 26 collectible design objects by renowned designers Germane Barnes, Michael Bennett (Studio Kër), Suchi Reddy, and Tara Sakhi (T SAKHI) alongside Crafting Plastics. The capsule collection expands on the concepts explored in Liminal Cycles, inviting viewers to consider these objects as manifestations of Lexus’ core ethos of materiality, innovation, performance, sustainability, and technology.

Intended to highlight the possibilities of natural materials and reactive software, Crafting Plastics and Lexus welcome viewers of Liminal Cycles to embark on an immersive journey toward discovery. The installation, situated in the ICA Miami sculpture garden, realizes the adaptability and responsive technology that is central to the developing concept of SDVs (Software Defined Vehicles), which envisions software-enabled customization as a key element of personalized luxury design. By engaging a global art and design audience in its exploration of the SDV concept, Lexus continues to champion bold and uncompromised luxury experiences for the next generation.

Tasked with bringing the SDV concept to life, Crafting Plastics, comprised of co-founders Vlasta Kubušová, Miroslav Král and their team, employed their research practice to create a dynamic, fragmented central “car” sculpture referencing the Lexus LF-ZC at scale. The material foundation of the central sculpture is 3D-printed bioplastic Nuatan®–a bio-based material series that is biodegradable, based on 100% renewable resources and leaves no microplastics behind. Coated with a UV-responsive material skin, the sculpture reacts to environmental stimuli, such as UV radiation and a viewer’s proximity, in real time by changing colour and expanding and contracting with breath-like movements. This pulsating mimics the rhythmic movements of natural beings to symbolize the potential harmonies between nature and technology.

Liminal Cycles also features three satellite installations to complement its central sculpture, each incorporating design elements of the LF-ZC to showcase sensory reactions ranging from audio and visual to olfactory. A flower-like sculpture references the shape of the LF-ZC’s steering wheel and entices viewers to interact with its rugged, earthy texture.  It responds to human touch with fluctuations in the volume and intensity of the installation’s site-specific sound composition. A second sculpture reimagines the form of the LF-ZC’s headrest as a section of lounge seating which emanates a Lexus-inspired scent in response to visitors’ interaction. Anchoring the four-part installation is a wind-activated, lattice-like sculpture that uses UV-reactive bioplastic material to detect shifts in UV radiation, responding to this stimuli with a subtle reveal of the Lexus logo across the delicate structure. Each response discovered throughout the installation is an expression of the expansive possibilities of material innovation and software-enabled reactive design.

On view through December 15, Liminal Cycles marks Lexus’ third year partnering with ICA Miami and the brand’s ninth year participating in Miami Art & Design Week. Through their collaboration and presentation of world-class installations, Lexus and ICA Miami are committed to building inspiring experiences that encourage thoughtful dialogue centring on creativity and design.

Founded by Vlasta Kubušová and Miroslav Král, Crafting Plastics is recognized as a global advocate for the adoption of biobased materials within mainstream creative industries from fashion and product design to interior homewares. With the groundbreaking development of their proprietary Nuatan® material series, Crafting Plastics challenges a design landscape where planned obsolescence and significant environmental waste is the norm. Through this collaboration, Lexus and Crafting Plastics employ an elevated approach to responsible design that combines beauty, utility and endurance, with an emphasis on reuse and reintegration.

“This installation presents a rare opportunity to explore an ambitious creative project that demonstrates the extensive capabilities of biomaterials with minimal compromises,” says Vlasta Kubušová, co-founder of Crafting Plastics. “We are proud to showcase our vision alongside Lexus, a brand that shares the same values of sustainability and innovation in design. We hope that visitors will be inspired by the possibilities of bio-based materials and begin to view them as an asset of our shared future.”

Lexus in Design Capsule Collection

Expanding upon its dedication to the future of sensorial design and holistic luxury experience, Lexus introduces an exclusive capsule collection of 26 collectible design objects crafted by a group of leading design talents. Selected for their individual explorations of sustainability, sensory design, and material innovation, Lexus in Design collaborated with five visionary designers–Crafting Plastics, Germane Barnes, Michael Bennett (Studio Kër), Suchi Reddy, and Tara Sakhi (T SAKHI)–for this one-of-a-kind collection. For the collection, the five designers each created an edition of bespoke objects inspired by key elements of Lexus’ brand ethos–personalization, sustainability, materiality, technology, and performance. The objects serve as sensory vessels, designed to hold a specially crafted Lexus fragrance in candle or diffuser form.

Throughout the collection, the designers employ materials ranging from amber glass, gold leaf, fired clay and ceramic, to biodegradable plastic, interlocking slit paper, and recycled aluminium from a Lexus hood. The resulting collection balances innovation with heritage, the ephemeral with the collectible, and technology with human nature to transport viewers on an immersive and sensory journey.

Each designer’s creations unite Lexus’ design ethos with their existing practice.

• Crafting Plastics’ Ephemerables series marries the core ethos of personalization with their use of bioplastics in modular, customizable and biodegradable forms.
• Germane Barnes’ ceramic vessels in his series, The Beauty of Labor, echo his award-winning research to reflect the value of high-quality performance in all aspects of design.
• Tara Sakhi (T SAKHI)’s Memory series encounters sustainability as an expressive representation of material evolution, resulting in exceptional luxury design achieved through the fusion of recyclable material.
• Michael Bennett presents a series of amber glass vessels, titled Synesthesia, as an exercise in materiality and repetition inspired by Lexus’ meticulous design process.
• Suchi Reddy foregrounds the role of technology in the design process with Bloom, a tabletop centerpiece for flowers and scents, employing interlocking slit paper to explore the intersection of technology-enabled intelligent design.

Lexus in Design x dilo Candle

Alongside the capsule collection, Lexus also launches a custom scent developed in close collaboration with clean fragrance brand dilo and created specifically for integration into the capsule collection and Liminal Cycles installation. The fragrance will also be available as a limited-edition candle and features prominent top notes of blood orange and bergamot, paired with nature-inspired hints of cedar and moss and a renewing base of amber and fir. The candle’s overall olfactory profile welcomes notions of progress and renewal balanced with a grounding alignment with nature. Renowned for its innovative scents and clean formulas, dilo uses 100% US-grown soy wax, non-phthalate fragrances, and clean burning cotton wicks.

“We are honored to collaborate with some of the world’s leading designers to bring Lexus’ vision of holistic luxury and personalized experience to life through this year’s installation and launch of our capsule collection,” says Heather Updegraff, ​​General Manager of Lexus International Strategic Communications. “These works embody the potential of responsive technology, sustainable materials, and sensory-driven design, offering a tangible glimpse into the future while inspiring viewers to contemplate these concepts in their everyday lives.”

The Lexus in Design capsule collection will be on view at ICA Miami and Alcova Miami during Miami Art & Design Week 2024. Pieces from the collection will be available for purchase at the ICA Miami gift shop and online at HBX.com, with sales profits going toward the support of ICA Miami’s sustainability initiatives.

Once again, in the ICA Miami sculpture garden, Lexus will present Lexus Art Series: Art and Innovation Talks with Whitewall alongside the Liminal Cycles installation. On Wednesday, December 4, two panels will engage the public in inspiring discussions centering on materiality and sustainability in luxury and automotive design. Moderators, Katy Donoghue (Whitewall Editor-in-Chief) and Tamara Warren (Co-founder & CEO of LE CAR) will be joined on stage by designers Vlasta Kubušová (Crafting Plastics), Suchi Reddy, Germane Barnes, Michael Bennett (Studio Kër) and Tara Sakhi (T SAKHI) as well as Sellene Lee, Chief Designer at Calty Design Research.

ABOUT LEXUS

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world’s first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 2.33 million electrified vehicles including HEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs.

A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its line-up to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries/regions worldwide.

Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.

ABOUT CRAFTING PLASTICS

Crafting Plastics is an award-winning interdisciplinary design and research studio founded by Vlasta Kubušová and Miroslav Král in 2016. The studio’s practice focuses on the research, development and implementation of a new generation of advanced ecological bio-based materials, both currently and in the future. Operating at the intersection of science and design, Crafting Plastics revolutionizes the properties and aesthetics of ephemeral materials, such as naturally-derived bioplastics, to offer durable design solutions across diverse industries. At the forefront of its practice, Crafting Plastics works to develop natural and scalable bioplastics to elevate the application and uses of the material within design and architecture. Nuatan®, the material brand developed by Crafting Plastics, is an ecological alternative to fossil-fuel-based plastic, created using 100% biobased and biodegradable biopolymer blends. Additionally, the studio is conducting innovative research on advanced environmentally responsive materials that act as sensing systems and enhance the relationship between humans and nature.

Crafting Plastics has worked with renowned brands such as Dior, Nike and Lexus, and presented projects at distinguished institutions worldwide, including the Victoria & Albert Museum, ALCOVA, MAK Vienna and Salon de Mobile. The studio has earned international acclaim, receiving nominations for the Slovak National Design Award, German Design Award (2018, 2021) and Beazley Designs of the Year at the London Design Museum. In 2022 Crafting Plastics was recognized by Dezeen as one of the world’s top emerging studios and in 2018 co-founder Vlasta Kubušová was featured in Forbes Slovakia’s 30 Under 30 List, underscoring Crafting Plastic’s pioneering role in circular design and sustainable material innovation.

ABOUT DILO

Founded in 2017 in Philadelphia, dilo launched as a product designer and manufacturer of comfort goods - candles, room sprays, reed diffusers - all that tell a story beyond their typical use. In the years to follow dilo filled out collections with Eau de Parfum, Apparel, Incense, and other home and personal care products, all designed and created carefully to ensure that they are of the cleanest in the industry. Largely picked up by independent retailers, dilo can be found in all 50 States and in several countries within Europe, Asia, and Australia.

• A new Lexus that’s designed to help you make the most of leisure lifestyles and take you closer to nature
• The latest version of Lexus’ globally successful mid-size SUV and best-seller in Europe
• Strong exterior styling features and a raised ride height that gives a commanding view of the landscape
• Smart black/khaki interior with new Bookmatch woodgrain door inlays
• Exclusive new Moon Desert exterior paint colour
• Personal well-being supported by sophisticated Lexus Climate Concierge, power-adjustable seating and ambient lighting system with 64 colour options
• Trail mode provided for stable, comfortable driving on rougher or loose surfaces
• NX Overtrail available in NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, NX 350h self-charging hybrid and NX 350 petrol versions
• Available to view and purchase at Lexus centres and online now

INTRODUCTION

Lexus presents the NX Overtrail, an SUV that’s designed to be an ideal choice for those who enjoy a free and easy lifestyle where personal wellbeing, a love of nature and the great outdoors are priorities.

The NX Overtrail is the perfect partner for trips away from the daily routine to explore new horizons, enjoy new experiences and recharge your inner batteries. It’s equipped to take rougher roads in its stride, while being equally poised and confident when travelling on urban streets.

Whatever the destination, life on board is comfortable, safe, and care-free, with uniquely Lexus luxury craftsmanship, intelligent technologies, and comprehensive safety provisions.

It builds on a heritage of worldwide success for the NX. It has been a consistent best-seller for Lexus in Europe while worldwide its popularity places it second only to the larger RX model. The NX Overtrail comes with all the winning qualities that have made it the choice of hundreds of thousands of customers.

THE NX OVERTRAIL PROJECT

In the belief that “one size does not fit all,” Lexus is evolving its model range to offer choices that appeal to an ever-wider range of customers, developing styling, colours, equipment features and performance to keep step with changing trends and preferences. It is about “making luxury personal,” giving people more freedom to build the car that meets their needs and makes a statement about their personality and lifestyle.

The new NX Overtrail reflects this strategy, an interpretation of the best-selling NX mid-size luxury SUV that’s designed to promote more peaceful, confident and fulfilling journeys, whether driving around town or getting closer to nature on roads less travelled. It’s the perfect partner for those who enjoy active pastimes, exploring new landscapes or simply getting away from it all. Supremely quiet, comfortable, and relaxing, it’s a car that can make the journey all part of an enriching experience.

Its design sets it apart from the regular NX range with styling details that project strength and purpose and a raised ride to give everyone on board a more commanding view of the road and landscape. Just as the NX F SPORT models put the focus on dynamic style and performance, the NX Overtrail speaks to those keen to travel beyond the everyday and enjoy a sense of “refined adventure”.

THE NX OVERTRAIL IN DETAIL

Exterior

The NX Overtrail is easily distinguished from other NX models with its dedicated external styling features. It sits higher from the ground, with the suspension raised by 15 mm, and rides on exclusive-design 18-inch matt black alloy wheels fitted with chunky all-terrain tyres. The black detailing theme also includes the roof rails, the door mirror casings and the fog lamp surrounds. The window mouldings have a black metallic finish, while the Lexus spindle grille has a gloss black mesh and black stainless steel surround.

These black elements strike a sharp contrast with the NX Overtrail’s signature new colour, Moon Desert. Six other paint finishes are available. In a distinctive touch, the LEXUS name on the back door is rendered in grey.

Interior

The cabin is equally distinctive, with an Overtrail-exclusive finish. Supple yet durable Tahara black synthetic leather is used for the seat upholstery, with contrasting khaki used for the bolsters, arm rests, door panels and detail stitching in the black headlining. There are also new Bookmatch natural woodgrain trim inserts.

True to the Lexus welcoming spirit of Omotenashi, there is a range of features that help make life on board more comfortable, relaxing, and restorative. For example, the air conditioning system uses advanced nanoe-X air quality technology, feeding trillions of minuscule water molecules into the cabin. This has the proven effect of combating bacteria, viruses, mould and bad odours, while also helping refresh human hair and skin with a moisturising effect. And with the Lexus Climate Concierge system, heating and ventilation sources are precisely adjusted to ensure an ideal temperature for all occupants. The front seats are heated and ventilated and power adjustable.

The cabin’s ambient lighting system can also be used to foster wellbeing. This provides, gentle, indirect illumination in the footwells, door panels and centre consoles, with 64 different colours to choose from, to suit your mood or the journey. The spectrum includes 14 shades curated by Lexus to reflect different moods inspired by nature.

The interior lay-out is flexible so you can easily fold rear seats when you need more space to carry your leisure kit or luggage. Even with all the seats in place there’s room for two large suitcases in the load space, while a power back door with hands-free kick-sensor operation makes loading easy. If you need to carry more, there are multiple accessories such as roof boxes and cycle carriers to choose from. If a towing hitch has been specified, you can tow up to 1,500 kg* – muscle enough to carry plenty of sports or leisure equipment.

*Towing capacities may vary according to local market.

Smart technologies

The NX Overtrail keeps you connected when on the move with the latest Lexus Link Pro multimedia system. This package includes a high-definition 14-inch touchscreen, an on-board voice assistant and both cloud-based and embedded navigation systems. As well as a front USB-A port for device connection, there are four USB-C charging ports, plus a wireless smartphone charging tray. Simple wireless smartphone connection is enabled for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Keeping you safe

This is a car that’s constantly working to keep you safe, warning of hazards and ready to act when there’s imminent risk of an accident. The latest generation Lexus Safety System + uses advanced camera and radar technology to check the NX’s surroundings, recognise hazards and alert the driver or initiate braking, steering and car control to help avoid an accident. As well making driving safer, it eases the burden on the driver, effortlessly maintaining a steady speed and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles and road users.

 The NX was the first Lexus to be equipped with an E-latch system. Linked to the car’s Blind Spot Monitor, this gives an alert if the driver or a passenger is about to open a door into the path of traffic approaching from the rear. If necessary, it will block the door opening if there is a collision risk.

There is more help when you need to manoeuvre into tight parking spaces with both front and rear parking sensors. When precise positioning is needed, a Panoramic View Monitor gives you a 360-degree view of the area immediately around – and beneath – the car, showing areas that can’t be seen from the wheel.

The driving experience

For the driver, the elevated position at the wheel is complemented by the Tazuna cockpit design. Tazuna is a Japanese term describing a rider’s control of their horse using just slight adjustment of the reins; in the NX it provides similar easy and intuitive control with all the principal controls and information sources – head-up display, digital instrumentation, and multimedia display – arranged closely around the driver, so only minimal hand or eye movement are needed, keeping your focus firmly on the road ahead.

The raised suspension increases the ground clearance to 200 mm, so the NX Overtrail can take uneven road surfaces in its stride. On slightly loose and slippery ground, the driver can engage Trail mode which has been added to the Drive Mode Select.  This automatically optimises the car’s suspension and control systems to suit the conditions.

Like the NX F SPORT, the Overtrail has sophisticated Adaptive Variable Suspension which instantly responds to changes in the driving conditions so that the ride remains stable, comfortable and reassuring. Precise handling and body control are further helped by additional performance dampers at the rear of the vehicle.

Peaceful progress

A calm and quiet cabin is central to the NX Overtrail driving experience. To ensure life on board is insulated from unwelcome noise and vibration, Lexus began right at the start of the car’s development phase by risk-mapping of the interior so that countermeasures could be perfectly designed and located.

Major features that suppress noise intrusion and generation include using acoustic-quality glass for the windscreen and front windows and adopting flush door mouldings and a new twin-latch system for securing the bonnet. The level of attention extends all the way to the surface shape of the fins on the cabin air vents to minimise noise from the airflow. There’s also the benefit of Active Noise Control which reduces noise and booming from the engine.

Powertrains

The NX Overtrail can be specified with three of the current NX powertrains: the NX 350h self-charging hybrid; the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid and the NX 350 petrol (available only in Eastern Europe). All-wheel drive is provided as standard – Lexus’ electric E-Four system on the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.

THE NX SUCCESS STORY

The first generation NX was first introduced in 2014 and was an instant success for Lexus. Having originated the market for luxury, recreational SUVs with the RX model in 1998, the company was now offering a mid-size model that gave the brand wider appeal, reaching new and younger customers.

The aim was to capture the crossover between sport and fashion, witnessed in everything from fashion to bikes and watches. Practicality was blended with user-friendly tech and refinement to create a car that expressed “progressive luxury”.

The NX was established as Lexus’ best-selling model in Europe by the time an all-new second generation was introduced in 2021. This was a transformative model, not just for the NX but Lexus as a whole, opening the “next chapter” for the brand, setting the template for every subsequent new model.

The innovation extended from a brand new vehicle platform to a new design language and new powertrains. It was Lexus’ first plug-in hybrid and the first model to adopt the Tazuna driver’s cockpit design.  “Feel More in Every Moment” was the tagline, reflecting how the car’s dynamic performance – the control, comfort and confidence of the Lexus Driving Signature – had been taken to a higher level.

To date, Lexus has sold almost a quarter of a million NX models in Europe and more than 1.5 million globally. Last year it was again the brand’s most popular European model, with nearly 26,000 units sold. By the end of June this year, the sales tally stood at more than 13,000 units.

• Lexus congratulates the winners of the 81^st Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale de Venezia – which concluded yesterday
• Lexus has proudly fulfilled its role in the international celebration of cinema as the official car of the festival for an eighth consecutive year
• The luxury car maker’s electrified models brought actors, directors, celebrities and officials to and from festival red carpet events
• Lexus put its future in the festival spotlight, presenting its LF-ZC concept for a future electric performance sedan in a special installation

The 81^st Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia – drew to a close yesterday with Lexus joining the international world of cinema to celebrate the event’s success and the winners of its prestigious Golden Lion awards. This year the leading honour was bestowed on “The Room Next Door,” a film by Pedro Almodóvar.

This was the eighth consecutive year for Lexus as the official car of the festival, where it proudly provided luxury transport to red carpet events and screenings for such respected and famous figures as Sveva Alviti, Isabelle Huppert, Willem Dafoe, Michael Keaton, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Joaquin Phoenix and Kevin Costner. Its fleet numbered 35 cars and featured all its principal electrified models, including the LBX Self-charging Hybrid, NX Plug-in Hybrid, RX Performance Hybrid and the all-electric RZ.

Together, these provided a powerful expression of the luxury brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Going further, the festival also turned the spotlight on Lexus’ visionary nature and its commitment to achieving a green transition in the premium car sector, with an installation on the Venice Lido dedicated to the LF-ZC – Lexus Future Zero Catalyst.

Signalling a future production model that could appear as soon as 2026, the LF-ZC is a powerfully styled concept, designed for mobility without compromise. It stands as an emblem of Lexus’ desire to embrace a future of sustainable mobility, applying cutting-edge technologies that not only respect the environment but also raise the driving experience to new heights.

This message was reinforced at the festival by Italian actor and Lexus Ambassador Stefano De Martino. He said: “It was exciting as always to be in Venice with Lexus for the festival again and a source of pride. When I enter a theatre to watch a film, I know that it will stir emotions, and it’s a similar experience when I get into my Lexus. It’s something unique, combining beauty, technology, innovation and sustainability. It’s a vision in the present but which looks ahead towards the future of mobility.

“The Venice Film Festival and Lexus both stand as an undisputed point of reference for excellence in their respective fields.”

The bond between Lexus and Venice has deep roots, they share the same vision and values, for people and sustainability. This has inspired Lexus in its support for the world of entertainment and the shared desire to create magical experiences that stir the emotions.

• Lexus is the official car of the 81st Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia 
• A fleet of Lexus electrified cars is providing luxury transport for actors, directors and delegates to red carpet events at festival venues 
• Lexus’ eighth year of official support for the festival reflects the values of craftsmanship, innovation and the desire to deliver amazing experiences the brand shares with the world of film 
• A special installation on the Venice Lido is showcasing the exciting LF-ZC concept for a future electric performance sedan 

The 81^st Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia – just opened, with Lexus returning as the official car of the festival for an eighth consecutive year. The event, one of the world’s most celebrated and significant celebrations of cinematic art and achievement, provides Lexus with a perfect opportunity to present the style, comfort and driving rewards of its luxury models.

As in previous years, a fleet of Lexus electrified vehicles will provide transport for actors, directors, VIP guests and officials to and from red carpet events. The celebrities enjoying the Lexus experience include Sveva Alviti, this year’s festival “godmother”. The line-up of cars features the LBX Self-Charging Hybrid – which made a high-profile debut at last year’s festival – the NX Plug-In Hybrid, the RX Performance Hybrid and the all-electric RZ. Together they demonstrate Lexus design and innovation excellence, embracing different options for electrified driving.

Lexus joined the red carpet for last evening’s opening ceremony and the premiere screening of the new Tim Burton feature “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”, starring Michael Keaton, Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci and Sveva Alviti. The occasion also marked the first festival engagement for Italian actress Miriam Leone in her role as an official Lexus ambassador. Leone’s talent, charisma, and versatility make her an ideal match for the brand and highlights Lexus’ strong bond with the world of cinema.

“I am thrilled to take part in the 81st Venice Film Festival with Lexus, a brand that perfectly reflects my own dedication to excellence in every detail,” said Miriam Leone. “I have a strong affinity with brand and its passion for creating unique and unforgettable experiences, always putting people at the centre of everything. I can’t wait to explore the ways in which the ‘extraordinary’ will be presented in Venice, experiencing the magic of cinema and Lexus’ visionary quality.”

Just as film has its “auteurs”, Lexus pursues a similar desire to create new experiences through meticulous attention to detail, innovative solutions and exceptional craftsmanship – values that for years have linked the brand and the world of cinema. Both place people at the centre of what they do, using their vision and talents to convey authentic, unique and memorable emotions.

“We are honoured to once again be part of La Biennale,” said Paolo Moroni, Director of Lexus Italy. “Cinema is the ultimate representation of emotion, innovation and talent. It stirs the imagination and provokes passion. For us at Lexus this is an opportunity to do something disruptive. We are here with a range of electrified cars that are of the moment, but we are also giving a glimpse of the future, with new concepts and a vision for even more sustainable mobility, true to our desire to amaze, innovate and dream.”

The visionary aspect of Lexus is reflected in an installation – for the first time on the Venice Lido – dedicated to the LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero Emission Catalyst). Against the evocative backdrop of the Venice Lagoon, this concept study provides a first taste of a future flagship for the brand, demonstrating Lexus’ wish to maximise the potential offered by electrification and giving shape to its ideas for a new era in mobility.
 

• Lexus partners with leading European digital artists to create original works inspired by the ‘Everyday Extraordinary’ theme of the Lexus LBX 
• Featured creatives are Sweden’s Andreas Wannerstedt, Ricardo Orts (aka ‘Ulises’), from Spain, and Charlotte Taylor of the UK 
• Each artist has designed visually striking digital artworks, bringing their distinctive, personal touch to the Lexus LBX launch campaign 
• Artworks launched today by the artists and Lexus on social media channels and other platforms 

Lexus has commissioned a collective of pan-European digital artists to create unique visions of everyday city life using immersive design and dynamic imagery to help celebrate the launch of the LBX compact urban crossover.

Each creative has produced visuals and animations drawing on images and film from the LBX’s ‘Everyday Extraordinary’ campaign which open up new perspectives on familiar city environments, using impactful treatments to transform urban architecture and streetscapes. It is the latest original project in a long association between Lexus and the world of contemporary art and design that supports the company’s commitment to innovation and creative thinking.

The new works are being revealed today by the artists on their social channels and will be used by Lexus across a variety of platforms and marketing initiatives designed to capture the attention and appeal to a younger demographic. Each artist will also contribute a behind the scenes film, giving a personal insight into their ideas and how they brought them to life in their artworks. This aligns with the LBX’s reach to new audiences, in particular younger customers, who value premium quality, but with a more casual feel.

Filip Belmans, Lexus Europe Head of Communications and Customer Experience, said: “It has been amazing to see our LBX philosophy interpreted through diverse digital artistry that reimagines everyday city living. Our design ambition for the LBX was to create a car that is more relaxed than formal in character, displaying an authentic, effortless style that people will instantly feel a connection with. Each artist has captured this quality while applying their own creative vision to the project.”

The artists

The three artists, chosen for their original techniques, artistic vision and strong social media presence are Andreas Wannerstedt (Sweden); Ricardo Orts, known as ‘Ulises’ (Spain); and Charlotte Talyor (UK).

Wannerstedt is an art director and 3D artist who is renowned for his sculptures and mesmerising looping animations. He said: “The LBX brings a fresh and extraordinary approach to everyday life. I was inspired by this and the car’s sharp design and choice of vibrant colours to work with Lexus and create an artwork that expresses the new perspective on city life.” 

Ulises is another 3D artist, also experienced in video and animation. His work with Berlin’s Ulises Studio, evokes premium quality and treads a perfect line between the real and surreal. In his animation, the LBX is driven through a typical monochromatic city which gradually transforms into a colourful array of urban architecture.

Charlotte Taylor is a digital artist, founder of the self-named Studio Charlotte Taylor and Maison du Sable. She specialises in architecture, interior design, and art direction.

The ‘Everyday Extraordinary’ campaign

The LBX makes the ‘Everyday Extraordinary’ by elevating the daily driving experience and turning it into something luxurious and engaging. The marketing campaign to launch the new model previously captured this concept in a series of four pop-events hosted in Milan, London, Madrid and Paris in which familiar everyday situations – a car wash, a multi-storey car park, a street art gallery and a bakery – were transformed into immersive luxury experiences, showcasing the LBX.

About the LBX

The self-charging hybrid LBX is the smallest Lexus yet, but fully deserving of its status as a landmark model, one which breaks down the traditional luxury hierarchy and which will be a game-changer for the brand in Europe.

As a new shape within Lexus’ well-established SUV line-up, it offers strong appeal to a younger audience and those who may not have considered a Lexus before. It has been conceived and developed without compromise, offering the craftsmanship quality and equipment features more typical of a larger model and the kind of rewarding driving experience that are part of every new Lexus.

The range is designed to give owners more freedom to express their individual taste and sense of style, true to the way Lexus makes luxury personal. It offers a choice of different “Atmosphere” influences that express a refined, dynamic or sporty theme through different combinations of styling details, colours, textures and finishes.

Learn more about the Lexus LBX at https://newsroom.lexus.eu/lexus-lbx/
 

• New version of Lexus’ mid-size luxury SUV promotes calm and fulfilling journeys, whether travelling around town or exploring the open road 
• Distinctive exterior styling with co-ordinated black finish for the door mirrors, door handles, roof rails, mouldings and spindle grille 
• Suspension raised by 15 mm to increase ground clearance and give a commanding driver’s view 
• New-design matt black 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tyres 
• Overtrail grade-exclusive new Moon Desert sandy metallic exterior paint finish and combination Black and Khaki interior 
• New grade available with all NX powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid and petrol 

Lexus is looking to ease the familiar stresses of driving with a new version of its NX mid-size luxury SUV that’s designed to promote more peaceful, confident and fulfilling journeys, whether moving around town or getting closer to nature on roads less travelled.

The Overtrail grade is not a rugged off-roader but an interpretation of the NX that projects a purposeful, premium image with dedicated styling details and enhancements to ensure smooth progress when you want to get away from it all on rural roads. 

The NX’s Lexus Next Chapter design is given a new perspective with raised suspension and the fitting of new-design 18-inch alloy wheels with chunky all-terrain tyres. There is a uniform black finish for the door mirror casings, door handles, wheel arch mouldings and roof rails, metallic black window mouldings and matt black wheels. The spindle grille gains extra emphasis with a bright metallic machined frame and mesh.

These details strike a smart contrast with the new Moon Desert paint finish, a sandy metallic shade that is exclusive to the Overtrail grade (six other colours are available).  In a distinctive touch, the LEXUS name on the back door is rendered in grey.

There is an exclusive look for the interior as well, with front sport seats upholstered in Black synthetic leather with body-holding bolsters in Khaki. The door cards and the centre console storage box are also finished in matching Khaki, with new Geo Layer trim inserts inspired by the patterns of natural rock strata.

Raising the suspension by 15 mm increases the vehicle’s overall height to 1,675 mm, increasing ground clearance and giving the driver a commanding view of their surroundings. Similarly, ground clearance has risen to 200 mm, so the Overtrail grade can take rougher roads in its stride. Dynamic performance has been further enhanced with additional rear bracing.

True to its welcoming spirit of Omotenashi, Lexus equips the NX Overtrail grade with features that make life on board, comfortable, relaxing and restorative. For example, the air conditioning system uses advanced nanoe-X air quality technology, feeding trillions of minuscule water molecules into the air conditioning system. This has the proven effect of combating bacteria, viruses, mould and bad odours, while also helping refresh human hair and skin with a moisturising effect.

The cabin environment can also foster personal wellbeing with its ambient lighting system. This provides gentle, indirect illumination in the footwells, door panels and centre consoles, with 64 different colours to choose from. Among these, 14 have been curated by Lexus to reflect different moods inspired by nature.

The new Overtrail grade is available with all NX powertrains in Europe: the NX 350h hybrid, NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid and NX 350 petrol.

• The flybridge and swimming platform have been expanded, providing more space for enjoyment and relaxation. 
• Production will be handled by the Horizon Group, which has an established reputation for its advanced technology which has been honed through the construction of superyachts. 

The Lexus Luxury Yacht, LY650, will take the next step its evolution as the new LY680 with some exciting, new enhancements. Starting from March 21st, 2024, orders will be accepted only in Japan through Toyota Marine sales offices and other select dealers^*1.

Lexus aims to be a luxury lifestyle brand and the flagship Luxury Yacht is the embodiment of the Lexus design philosophy “Crafted.” The LY680 expresses this philosophy by thoroughly paying attention to every single detail, in order to exceed customers' expectations and create a unique experience that stimulates their senses, even while at sea.

The concept for the Luxury Yacht is "to feel like a hideout in the middle of the sea, providing a space where discerning customers can feel free and at ease.” The exterior embodies the Lexus design philosophy of L-finesse, and the interior has been meticulously crafted down to the smallest details to provide a comfortable living space. In terms of performance, Lexus aims for confidence inspiring cruising performance, offering stable manoeuvrability, excellent ride comfort, and quietness.

Production was carried out by the Horizon Group, which has a reputation for its advanced technological capabilities honed which have been honed through the construction of superyachts. By combining the Horizon Group’s building capabilities with yacht production methods based on the TPS^*2, the strengths of both brands have been leveraged to achieve further enhancements.

A 1/20 scale model of the LY680 will be on display at the Japan International Boat Show 2024 which will be held at Pacifico Yokohama from March 21st to 24th, 2024.

^*1 Delivery is scheduled for the spring of 2026. Sales in additional overseas markets will be considered in the future based on customer demand.

^*2 Toyota Production System

EXPANSION OF FLYBRIDGE AND SWIMMING PLATFORM PROVIDE MORE SPACE FOR ENJOYMENT AND RELAXATION

The flybridge has been extended by 1,400mm and features a spacious lounge sofa and a barbecue grill^*3, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. In addition, the swimming platform has been extended by 700mm platform, which allows you to enjoy a wide range of offshore activities, including personal watercrafts.

PRODUCTION TO BE HANDLED BY THE HORIZON GROUP

Horizon Group, who will build the LY680, is a leading luxury yacht brand in Asia, specializing in custom-built yachts utilizing advanced technology and excellent production methods. The combination of sleek styling inspired by Lexus' design philosophy, L-finesse, and Horizon Group's production capabilities, which they’ve cultivated through the construction of superyachts, leverages the strengths of both brands to create a truly spectacular yacht.

LY680 main specifications

^*3 Option setting

ABOUT LEXUS

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world’s first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 2.83 million hybrid vehicles including HEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs.

A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries/regions worldwide.

Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.
 

Lexus returns to Milan Design Week this spring, exhibiting “Time”, a pair of interactive installations featuring new and original work by two leading global designers – both aimed at illuminating the future of human-centred design from the canvas of the world’s largest design event.

Since its founding 35 years ago, Lexus has continuously challenged the status quo in the luxury automotive space, pushing boundaries in both products and services to create new experiences that respect every moment of a customer’s time.

Building on this mindset, “Time” explores how the era of software-defined hardware will infinitely expand the possibilities for personally tailored experiences, allowing future design to seamlessly anticipate and evolve with each individual.

The exhibition is divided between two installations within the same site. The indoor exhibit "BEYOND THE HORIZON" by Hideki Yoshimoto/Tangent expresses a world of next-generation mobility that continues to evolve in limitless ways through software, complemented by the music of Keiichiro Shibuya that further invites visitors into an immersive space.

"8 Minutes 20 Seconds" by Marjan van Aubel will be exhibited outside, expressing the investment she shares with Lexus in pioneering new approaches to design and technology toward a carbon-neutral future.

Both exhibitions incorporate the next-generation Lexus electric vehicle LF-ZC, a concept that represents how the synergy of hardware and software can redefine the automotive experience.

Lexus has been a regular exhibitor at Milan Design Week for almost 20 years, collaborating with many leading designers and artists to create immersive experiences for visitors. The roll call of talent includes such internationally respected names as Philippe Nigro, Sou Fujimoto, Rhizomatiks, Germane Barnes and Suchi Reddy.

“Time” will be on public view in the Art Point and Art Garden at Superstudio Pìu in Milan’s famous Tortona design district from April 16 to 21.

Notes to editors:

Event details 
Dates: Press Day April 15, 10am to 8pm; Public Days April 16 to 21, 10am to 9pm 
Venue: Art Point and Art Garden, Superstudio Più, Via Tortona 27, 20144 - Milan, Italy 
Exhibition: 
- Installation “BEYOND THE HORIZON” by Hideki Yoshimoto/Tangent (Art Point) 
- Installation “8 Minutes 20 Seconds” by Marjan van Aubel (Art Garden) 

Designer profile –Hideki Yoshimoto /Tangent

Hideki Yoshimoto, founder of the international Tangent design and innovation brand, was the winner of the first Lexus Design Award in 2013, while still a student at the Royal College of Art in London. His winning lighting design “INAHO” was invited to participate in exhibitions around the world and went on to be developed as a commercial product. 

Yoshimoto specialises in the progressive fusion of design and engineering. In addition to providing global luxury brands such as Hermès with designs and concepts, he is active in a wide range of fields, from technology-based new business development to urban schemes.  In recent years, he has been involved in the evolution and transmission of Japanese culture, including the founding of Craft x Tech, an international initiative to connect traditional Japanese crafts and leading-edge technology.

Tangent is a design studio that aims to express the idea of “bringing technology closer to people’s lives and time, rather than thrusting it on them”. Its collaboration approach resonates with the relationship that Lexus aims to build between its customers and mobility.

https://www.tngnt.uk/   

Designer profile –Marjan van Aubel / Marjan van Aubel Studio

Marjan van Aubel is a solar designer from the Netherlands whose work explores innovations that combine sunlight and technology for a sustainable future. She is the director of the Marjan van Aubel Studio, which has produced award-winning creative activities aimed at incorporating solar energy into daily life. 

Explaining her studio’s creative ethos, she says: “We will continue to create a future that combines sustainability, design, and solar technology, create lasting change through solar design, and bring solar power closer to life by incorporating it into our lives through buildings and objects. That's what I'm aiming for.”

This idea connects with Lexus’ design vision and its aim for battery electric vehicles to deliver experiential value that is human-centred.

Van Aubel graduated from the Royal College of Art with a Master’s degree in Product Design and holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Rietveld Academy Design Lab. Leading brand collaborations include COS, Timberland and Swarovski to help accelerate the transition to solar energy globally. Her notable works include “Sunne,” “Current Table,” “Power Plant” and the roof design for the Netherlands Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai.

https://www.marjanvanaubel.com/

Composer profile–Keiichiro Shibuya

A Japanese composer, musician, and artist based in Tokyo and Paris. Graduated from the Tokyo University of the Arts' Department of Composition. His work encompasses cutting-edge electronic music, piano solos, operas, film scores, and sound installations.

In 2012, Shibuya created the vocaloid opera The End, starring Hatsune Miku. The opera premiered at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with costumes designed by Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs and since then has toured worldwide. In 2018, Shibuya premiered another opera called “Android Opera”. The opera features an AI-equipped android, which sings while conducting an orchestra. In 2021, Shibuya received a commission to create the opera Super Angels by the New National Theatre, Tokyo. In 2022, he performed the Android Opera MIRROR for Expo 2020 Dubai. The full 70-minute version of this opera was premiered at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

Shibuya has also received recognition for his film scores. In 2020 and 2021, he was recognized at the 75th Mainichi Film Awards and received the 30th Japan Movie Critics Award for the film Midnight Swan.

Through his works, Shibuya continues to push the boundaries of technology, life, and death.

http://atak.jp/en/

 ABOUT LEXUS

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world’s first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 2.33 million electrified vehicles including HEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs.

A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries/regions worldwide.

Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.
 

THE LOFT at Brussels Airport has been named “Europe’s Leading Airline Lounge 2024” at the prestigious World Travel Awards™ (WTA). This is the sixth, consecutive, year that the LOFT has won the award. It has done so each year since Lexus and Brussels Airlines began collaboration in 2018.

Created and managed by Brussels Airlines and Lexus, THE LOFT brings Lexus luxury, Takumi craftsmanship, and Omotenashi - a Japanese concept of hospitality which aims to anticipate a guest’s needs - to business travellers.

Extending to over 2,000 m2, THE LOFT has distinct zones. These include a central bar; comfortable seating for relaxing; and a space for undisturbed working. Guests are presented with a warm Oshibori towel upon entering. Shiatsu massage chairs, extra-sensory Grohe showers and nap rooms with starlight ceilings are available. Dining options include hot and cold dishes while a Neuhaus Maîtres Chocolatier is on hand to create sweet memories.

Lexus Brand Ambassadors provide a personal welcome to guests at THE LOFT 7 days a week from 05:00 until 21:00. Their unique understanding of Lexus, and the hospitality requirements of air passengers, impressed voters and secured the award.

Accepting the award at the WTA Europe Gala Ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton, Berlin, Olivier Brynaert, Head of Customer Experience, Brussels Airlines said:

“Based on the feedback of our guests, we keep on smartly investing in our lounge to remain at the top. We recently renovated the shower suites, improved the set-up of the buffet, and introduced an ‘a la carte’ menu in the HON area, just to name a few examples. I am so humbled and honoured that we are granted this award for the sixth time in a row.  I warmly thank the entire lounge team as well as partners and suppliers for their efforts every single day to make this lounge as great as it is.”

Filip Belmans Head of Communications & Customer Experience at Lexus Europe added:

“This award recognises the winning formula of superb customer experience and inspiring design at THE LOFT. At Lexus, we aim to help customers ‘experience amazing’. We do this by applying Omotenashi to every aspect of their journey. This is as true of THE LOFT as it is for our cars – from the flagship Lexus LM to the compact Lexus LBX – recently voted What Car? ‘Car of the Year 2024’.”

More information on THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines and Lexus can be found at: THE LOFT By Lexus | Lexus Europe.

ABOUT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

ABOUT LEXUS

Lexus is a global luxury lifestyle brand with an unwavering commitment to exceptional customer experience, innovative technology, and exceptional craftsmanship. A leader in luxury car electrification for 20 years, over 2.5 million Lexus Self-Charging Hybrids are currently on the road across the globe.

Lexus unveiled “8 Minutes and 20 Seconds”, an installation by Dutch solar designer Marjan van Aubel, which is now on view within the sculpture garden at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami). Brimming with life and colour, the striking solar sculpture reimagines the Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst (LF-ZC) concept car as an interactive experience through van Aubel’s trademark use of solar cells. “8 Minutes and 20 Seconds” marks van Aubel’s first public project in Miami and has been realized through design development by spatial and experience design firm Random Studio. 

Named in reference to the time it takes sunlight to reach the earth, “8 Minutes and 20 Seconds” uses Organic Photovoltaics (OPV), third-generation solar cells that are both transparent and rich with colour, to translate the LF-ZC into a graphic pattern design, in a true-to-size representation of the concept car. 

“8 Minutes and 20 Seconds” awakens to the presence of viewers as they move around it and explore different perspectives. Four individual motion sensors spark light to bounce and ripple like water across the installation’s base, which represents the car’s EV platform. At unexpected intervals, the installation springs to life in an ephemeral spectacle—light cascades across it as a melody crescendo, mirroring the dynamics of the car in motion and offering a sensory glimpse into the energy of driving. As the day progresses, the warm, sunrise hues reflecting throughout the OPV sheets give way to cooler tones. 

Throughout the day, the sculpture harnesses solar power, drawing energy from the OPV sheets. These solar cells accumulate energy into batteries discreetly nestled within the sculpture's base. Slowly but surely, this continual absorption culminates, storing a reservoir of solar-derived power to help sustain the sculpture's captivating displays and features. 

The installation emanates an ambient melody, weaving together warm string instruments, soft piano and chimes that harmonize with the surrounding environment. Intermittently, the melody is embellished with birdsong and other sound effects. At times, the composition introduces woody bamboo notes, a subtle nod to the original car's interior bamboo material, integrating its essence into the auditory experience. 

On view through December 17th, “8 Minutes and 20 Seconds” marks Lexus’ second year partnering with ICA Miami and the brand’s sixth immersive experience during Miami Art & Design Week. Through collaboration and presenting world-class installations, Lexus and ICA Miami are committed to building experiences that inspire visitors to ponder the immense potential of creative design. 

Globally recognized as an advocate for sustainability in art and design, van Aubel is a natural partner to Lexus’s forward-thinking design ethos. Championed for her furniture and lighting design as well as public installations, her work bridges solar technology with aesthetic design solutions. Her work is held in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the MoMA, Vitra Design Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. 

“It’s been a joy to bring the LF-ZC concept car to life! Lexus’s ethos towards innovation, craftsmanship, and new material use resonates with my design practice. This installation invites people to interact with light and colour and engages them to imagine a more sustainable, positive future. Through this partnership, I could tell a new narrative of generating energy beautifully,” said Marjan van Aubel 

“We are honoured to work with a solar design pioneer as esteemed as Marjan van Aubel. Her singular vision and expertise have built a remarkable installation that illuminates the design essence of the LF-ZC concept and her dedication to human-first, sustainable design is something we share and value dearly. It’s thrilling to see this sculpture come alive in the garden at ICA Miami," said Brian Bolain, Lexus’ global head of marketing. 

“Environmental sustainability is a priority for ICA Miami as we have made a year-round commitment to minimizing and offsetting our carbon footprint. Marjan van Aubel’s powerful work with Lexus represents significant advances in innovative sustainable design and represents how global ecological concern drives contemporary solutions. We are delighted to provide an important platform for Marjan van Aubel and their powerful work during Miami Art Week,” said Alex Gartenfeld, Irma and Norman Braman Artistic Director at ICA Miami. 

ABOUT MARJAN VAN AUBEL 
Marjan van Aubel Studio is an award-winning innovative solar design practice that brings solar energy into daily life. Designing for a positive future through combining the fields of sustainability, design and technology, the studio is creating lasting change through solar design, integrating solar power seamlessly into our environments such as in buildings and objects. With the goal to make solar power more accessible for everyone. Most notable works are Sunne, Current Table, Power Plant and the roof of the Netherlands Pavilion at the World Expo 2020 in Dubai. 

Marjan has collaborated with global brands such as Cos, Timberland, Swarovski with the aim of accelerating the global energy transition to solar. She graduated from the Royal College of Art (Design Products MA) in 2012 and the Rietveld Academy DesignLAB (BA) in 2009. 

ABOUT INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART MIAMI 
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) is dedicated to promoting continuous experimentation in contemporary art, advancing new scholarship, and fostering the exchange of art and ideas throughout the Miami region and internationally. Through an energetic calendar of exhibitions and programs, and its collection, ICA Miami provides an important international platform for the work of local, emerging, and under-recognized artists, and advances the public appreciation and understanding of the most innovative art of our time. Launched in 2014, ICA Miami opened its new permanent home in Miami’s Design District on December 1, 2017. The museum’s central location positions it as a cultural anchor within the community and enhances its role in developing cultural literacy throughout the Miami region. The museum offers free admission, providing audiences with open, public access to artistic excellence year round. 

ABOUT RANDOM STUDIO 
Random is a spatial experience design studio and B-corporation based in Amsterdam and Paris. The studio focuses on creating spaces that change and evolve based on their interaction with people, architecture, nature and technology. 

• Nitto ATP Finals to take place from November 12 to 19 in Turin, Italy 
• Lexus to provide player transportation with a fleet of more than 40 electrified models 
• Participation part of Lexus’ wider role as Official Automotive Partner and Platinum Partner of the ATP Tour 

Lexus will proudly fulfil its role as Official Car of the Nitto ATP Finals, the climax of the ATP Tour season, taking place in Turin, Italy, from November 12 to 19. The tournament, “Where Champions Become Champion,” will see the world’s top eight qualifying singles players and doubles teams from the season compete for the prestigious title.

Lexus’ presence at the competition will include a fleet of more than 40 electrified cars serving as transport for players and officials. The line-up will include the all-electric RZ 450e and UX 300e together with hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric models.

The event will also provide a high-profile showcase for the latest additions to the Lexus line-up: the recently launched LM “luxury mover” and the all-new LBX hybrid electric crossover, which will be on display prior to its market launch early next year.

Lexus’ support for the Nitto ATP Finals is in addition to its wider role as Official Automotive Partner and Platinum Partner of the ATP Tour. This multi-year global partnership was formed in June this year and has already seen the brand enjoy prominent international exposure at ATP Tour competitions and across the ATP Tour’s fast-growing digital and social platforms, including Title Partnership of the interactive fan feature ATP Head2Head.

Lexus’ support for the ATP Tour is founded on their shared values of perfection and excellence and desire to give people amazing experiences. Lexus’ promotion of the use of its electrified models during tournaments 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.

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 eight 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.

Today, Lexus announced a new collaboration with acclaimed Dutch solar designer Marjan van Aubel to create a vibrant, sun-powered installation within the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) sculpture garden. Inspired by the LF-ZC next-generation BEV concept car recently revealed at the Japan Mobility Show and jointly realized with spatial experience design studio Random Studio, the interactive installation will elevate Lexus and van Aubel’s investment in pushing the boundaries of design and technology toward a carbon-neutral future. It will be unveiled in early December, and on view throughout Miami Art & Design Week 2023. 

Titled "8 Minutes and 20 Seconds," in reference to the time it takes light from the sun to reach the earth, this installation will showcase the incredible potential of harnessing carbon-neutral energy. It represents a sculptural interpretation of Lexus's ground-breaking new model of electrification, intricately constructed around van Aubel's unique use of organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells commonly employed in solar power applications. Through the lens of van Aubel's solar design expertise, this installation not only pays homage to the sun's journey but also amplifies the ingenuity of Lexus's environmentally conscious and technologically-pioneering electrified vehicle. 

Lexus's unwavering commitment to social responsibility in mobility design and broader societal contexts guides the brand, propelling it to challenge convention and transcend limitations while maintaining a wide-reaching vision for sustainability. The LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst) concept is part of the forthcoming next-generation Lexus BEV line-up. As the name suggests, the model forms the catalyst for new experiences in the electric age, including elevated driving dynamics, uncompromised design, and new exclusive services―the epitome of the Lexus brand promise to craft cars that enrich the lives of discerning customers. 

The installation marks van Aubel’s first-ever public project in Miami. Lexus has brought installations to Miami Art & Design week since 2018, and this project marks the second year of their partnership with ICA Miami. Together, Lexus and ICA Miami are committed to building experiences that inspire visitors to consider the positive impact of creative design. 

To realize the installation, van Aubel’s studio is collaborating with Random Studio, the acclaimed Certified B Corporation® that creates immersive spatial experiences globally. The installation will model the LF-ZC at-scale, constructed with OPV sheets that cast colourful shadows as sunlight hits them throughout the day. Light and motion sensors within the sculpture will add to the installation’s engaging, interactive nature, creating a visual spectacle that activates the senses and embodies the inspiring possibilities of Lexus’s electric revolution. 

Marjan van Aubel has earned global recognition for bringing solar energy into everyday life through aesthetically pleasing solutions. As a passionate advocate for sustainability within the art and design sector, her practice and research has yielded award-winning furniture and lighting design, along with striking public installations. Additionally, she stands as a co-founder of the world's first Solar Biennale, and her remarkable works are displayed in prestigious institutions, including the MoMA, Vitra Design Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. 

"Lexus' dedication to innovation and craftsmanship resonates with the ethos of my own practice, which is that functional design can be both sustainable and aesthetically beautiful. With this collaboration, I hope we can bring light to the concept that sustainable design solutions are works of art," said Marjan van Aubel. 

"We are honoured that Marjan van Aubel, a pioneer in the field of solar design, is working with us to bring her expertise and brilliance to imagine the BEV Concept car. Her unwavering commitment to sustainable, human-first design is a characteristic we value strongly here at Lexus. We could not think of a better location for her installation to be unveiled than at ICA Miami, a world-class institution," said Brian Bolain, Lexus’ global head of marketing. 

“Environmental sustainability is a priority for ICA Miami as we have made a year-round commitment to minimizing and offsetting our carbon footprint. Marjan van Aubel’s powerful work with Lexus represents significant advances in innovative sustainable design and represents how global ecological concern drives contemporary solutions. We are delighted to provide an important platform for Marjan van Aubel and their powerful work during Miami Art Week,” said Alex Gartenfeld, Irma and Norman Braman Artistic Director at ICA Miami. 

Coinciding with the installation, Lexus will once again host Lexus Art Series: Art and Innovation talks with Whitewall, a program of intimate discussions and talks between Lexus ambassadors and industry leaders across the art and design worlds. Additional details will be provided in November. 

ABOUT MARJAN VAN AUBEL 
Marjan van Aubel Studio is an award-winning innovative solar design practice that brings solar energy into daily life. Designing for a positive future through combining the fields of sustainability, design and technology. The studio is creating lasting change through solar design, integrating solar power seamlessly into our environments such as in buildings and objects. With the goal to make solar power more accessible for everyone. Most notable works are Sunne, Current Table, Power Plant and the roof of the Netherlands Pavilion at the World Expo 2020 in Dubai. 

Marjan has collaborated with global brands such as Cos, Timberland, Swarovski with the aim of accelerating the global energy transition to solar. Graduating from the Royal College of Art (Design Products MA) in 2012 and the Rietveld Academy DesignLAB (BA) in 2009. 

Additionally, van Aubel was designated ambassador of Dutch Design Week 2022, amplifying the initiative and her own solar ambitions. 

ABOUT INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART MIAMI 
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) is dedicated to promoting continuous experimentation in contemporary art, advancing new scholarship, and fostering the exchange of art and ideas throughout the Miami region and internationally. Through an energetic calendar of exhibitions and programs, and its collection, ICA Miami provides an important international platform for the work of local, emerging, and under-recognized artists, and advances the public appreciation and understanding of the most innovative art of our time. Launched in 2014, ICA Miami opened its new permanent home in Miami’s Design District on December 1, 2017. The museum’s central location positions it as a cultural anchor within the community and enhances its role in developing cultural literacy throughout the Miami region. The museum offers free admission, providing audiences with open, public access to artistic excellence year round. 

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami is located at 61 NE 41st Street, Miami, Florida 33137. For more information, visit www.icamiami.org or follow the museum on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook and explore the ICA Channel for inside looks at ICA Miami exhibitions and the practices of the most exciting artists working today. 

ABOUT RANDOM STUDIO 
Random is a spatial experience design studio and B-corporation based in Amsterdam and Paris. The studio focuses on creating spaces that change and evolve based on their interaction with people, architecture, nature and technology. 
 

• To show how Lexus’ all-new LBX makes the ‘Everyday Extraordinary,’ Lexus is transforming a traditional Parisian bakery into an ‘Extraordinary Boulangerie’
• Attendees will be treated to an exquisite selection of sensory and culinary experiences around pastry created by acclaimed Michelin-starred chef, Mory Sacko
• The event will be held at La Verrière du Marais on the 23^rd and the 24^th of November
• It is the fourth and final event in Lexus’ series of pan-European pop-up experiences ahead of the launch of LBX

To celebrate the launch of the all-new LBX - a landmark model for the brand - Lexus has held a series of immersive experiences across Europe throughout 2023. Each event focused on elevating ‘Everyday’ moments into the ‘Extraordinary.’ Following successful events in Milan, London and Madrid the series’ final iteration will be held in Paris - transforming the traditional corner bakery into an ‘Extraordinary Boulangerie.’

On the 23^rd and the 24^th of November, at La Verrière du Marais, 5 Rue Saint-Merri, Paris, 75004, Lexus is hosting the people of Paris for a moment to pause and recuperate from city life amidst the ultimate hospitality. Embodying the core Lexus value of ‘Omotenashi’ - the unparalleled hospitality at the heart of the brand - guests will be welcomed into a true culinary immersion, from its luxurious, curated menu down to the interiors and decoration of the expansive space.

Lexus is partnering with renowned chef Mory Sacko to bring the ‘Extraordinary Boulangerie’ to life. Mory Sacko will bring his revered touch to the event’s culinary experiences. 

The event will mimic the process of baking from the start to the end. Guests will move through the chapters of proving, baking and tasting before they see the plat du jour, where the all-new LBX will be plated up and surrounded by dynamic lights that match the 4 different colours of the LBX.

The highly Instagrammable proving cabinet will surround guests in a collection of effervescent bubbles that simulate the light and fluffy effect of proving in baking.

Next comes the baking stage, where guests will move through warm glows of light and calming ASMR sounds of crackling pastry will create an immersive, multi-sensorial experience.

Calling on Lexus’ proud Japanese heritage and Japan’s iconic cuisine, guests will be treated to a delectable choice of sweet and savoury foods that will be displayed on sushi conveyor belts.

The event will only be open for two days with a unique opportunity for guests to experience the LBX through a multimodal integration of sight, touch, smell and taste.

Tommaso Grassi, Head of Communication and Customer Experience at Lexus Europe, comments: “It has been wonderful to see the LBX philosophy brought to life throughout this year’s pop-up event series, as an innovative way to introduce the new model and all it stands for to our European audience. We are excited to round it off with our final event in Paris: this time focused on luxury culinary immersion. Partnering with the acclaimed Mory Sacko has been the perfect match, as he is the ultimate figure in contemporary French cuisine, naturally intertwining his passion for Japanese culture. I’m confident that our Parisian and international audience will truly feel how the LBX makes Everyday moments Extraordinary, through our reimagined boulangerie.”

About the LBX:

The all-new, all-hybrid electric LBX is the smallest Lexus yet, but fully deserving of its status as a landmark model, one which breaks down the traditional luxury hierarchy and which will be a game-changer for the brand in Europe. As a new shape within Lexus’ well-established SUV line-up, it offers strong appeal to a younger audience and those who may not have considered a Lexus before.

Learn more about the all-new Lexus LBX here.

About Mory Sacko:

Mory Sacko opened his fine-dining restaurant,  MoSuke in 2020 - blending his love for Japan and its culture with French and African cuisine. In 2021, MoSuke was called out in the Michelin Guide and awarded his first star.

Image credit: Mory Sacko by Virginie Garnier

• Lexus unveils “Extraordinary Street Gallery” in Plaza de Colon in Madrid
• Prestige artists, such as the interior designer Fabián Ñiguez and the muralist Lidia Cao, will present 3D canvases in huge pink maritime containers
• Through immersive installations, different elements of the new LBX will be bought to life
• The gallery will be free for the public to attend from October 26 to 29

To celebrate the launch of the new LBX, Lexus is hosting a series of four pop-up experiences in European cities: Milan, London, Madrid and Paris. ‘Making ‘Everyday’ moments ‘Extraordinary’ is at the heart of the LBX: a hybrid compact SUV that is remarkable in design yet practical for daily city driving. Each event focuses on elevating day-to-day experiences and reimagining the vehicle through immersive installations.

From October 26 to 29, Plaza de Colon in Madrid will be transformed by Lexus into an “Extraordinary Street Gallery”. Through the unexpected use of vast pink maritime containers, the public will be able to experience first-hand how an everyday square in the capital of Spain will be converted into an extraordinary space of art, design and technology which reflects the spirit of the LBX.

Various artists of recognized prestige, namely the architect and interior designer Fabián Ñiguez and the muralist Lidia Cao, will represent through 3D canvases, different qualities of the LBX in one of the most emblematic squares of Madrid.

The Lexus LBX will be the centre piece of the Agora, an unexpected installation where the old and the new meet to mimic the disruptive side of this new car.

Tommaso Grassi, Head of Customer Experience and Communications at Lexus Europe, comments: “After Milan and London, we’re excited to bring the all-new LBX to the heart of Madrid. Through an impressive street gallery, made of art installations that mimic the LBX’s impressive style and design we will show how our latest model makes the “Everyday Extraordinary”. We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of the all-new LBX in Madrid”.

For the creation of the LBX pop-up event on Plaza de Colon, Lexus Spain has partnered with the ADN Forum, an organisation that aims to promote design, architecture and culture in Spain. 

Ahead of the launch of the LBX in early 2024, the fourth pop-up experience will be held in Paris from November 23 to 25. “The Extraordinary Boulangerie” will be the final instalment of Lexus pop-up event series.

The all-new self-charging LBX is the smallest Lexus to date, but it is worthy of its flagship status, challenging the traditional luxury hierarchy and changing the game for the brand in Europe. With its new profile in the consolidated range of Lexus crossovers, it offers a powerful appeal to a younger audience and to those who may not have considered owning a Lexus before. For more details on the new Lexus LBX, click here.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Fabián Ñiguez

Fabián is a renowned and award-winning interior designer. He has achieved several awards, including the prestigious Architectural Digest AD100 list, and is recognized by the creation of refined interior spaces with a touch of irreverence.

Lidia Cao

Lidia Cao is an illustrator by the EASD Pablo Picasso of A Coruña. She is credited for her urban art, where she combines illustration and muralism in a very creative way.

Lexus shared the red carpet spotlight with famous figures from contemporary European cinema this week at the opening night of the 80^th edition of the Venice International Film Festival – La Biennale di Venezia.

As the Official Car of the festival for a seventh consecutive year, Lexus is providing a fleet of electrified models as luxury transport for film-makers, actors and VIP attendees to screenings and events, taking place on the Venice Lido until 9 September. The occasion is also providing a high-profile showcase for the all-new LBX, Lexus’ breakthrough new hybrid electric compact crossover that will be launched across Europe later this year.

The festival opened this week (30 August) with the world premiere of the film Comandante. Its director Edoardo De Angelis and leading actor Pierfrancesco Favino were brought to the red carpet by Lexus, together with actor Caterina Murino (Casino Royale) – the “godmother” of this year’s festival – and director Alice Diop (St Omer), the Luigi De Laurentiis Award Jury President.

Paolo Moroni, Director of Lexus Italy, said: “Every year we aim to show and tell something new and extraordinary in the wonderful setting of the festival. This year our undoubted ‘star’ is the new Lexus LBX. We are honoured to present this exceptional SUV that we believe will help make the red carpet even more special.”

This month, Lexus launched the first of its four pop-up events to celebrate the all-new LBX: a landmark model for the brand and the smallest Lexus yet. Centred around making the Everyday Extraordinary, the event took the shape of a traditional car wash and was held at Palazzo Bovara in Milan, Italy.

Lexus welcomed guests between July 18 to 20, hailing from across the globe. Open to members of the public as well as senior stakeholders and VIPs, the guestlist included Stefano Di Martino, Cristiano Caccamo and Hadise.

The LBX-inspired installations focused on cooling moments and mindfulness, and guests moved through the space as a car would through an autolavaggio. Starting in ‘Soak,’ they explored a series of overhead and vertical apertures, designed to envelop them in moving water - a sensation proven to be calming and meditative.

In ‘Spray,’ guests walked through a tunnel of lights that echoed the choice of atmospheres available in the new LBX, to make luxury truly personal. Here, mist arches cooled the pulse points where blood vessels are closest to the skin, relaxing guests as they walked through.

Paying homage to the car wash’s most recognisable feature, Lexus recreated a sensorial maze in a forest of lifesize rollers. This section, titled ‘Feel,’ forced guests to slow down as they moved between static and moving columns - and was a fan-favourite photo opportunity.

Stepping beyond the artificial aromas of classic in-car air fresheners, Lexus brought its Omotenashi hospitality to Milan through a garden of serene natural fragrances. Guests were surrounded by yuzu and koyamaki scents and treated to a refrigerated towel.

The event experience culminated with the iconic LBX vehicle itself: displayed against the dramatic moving backdrop of billowing fabrics. Guests could explore the condensed beauty and contouring of the premium compact SUV close up, and admire the Takumi craftsmanship incorporated throughout.

Tommaso Grassi, Head of Customer Experience and Communications at Lexus Europe, comments: “I’m impressed by the result of our first Everyday Extraordinary pop-up event in Milan where so many guests had a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of the LBX and our Lexus philosophy. The installations provided us with mindful moments amidst busy city living, bringing to life the spirit of our newest addition. As the first of four pop-up events across Europe this year, we are looking forward to showcasing Lexus accessible luxury to more people throughout autumn.”

In the second half of 2023, Lexus is bringing its event series to more locations across Europe, before the LBX launches in early 2024:

●        The Extraordinary Car Park in London, United Kingdom – 21 to 23 September 2023

●        The Extraordinary Street Gallery in Madrid, Spain – 26 to 29 October 2023

●        The Extraordinary Bakery in Paris, France – 23 to 25 November 2023

Guests can sign up for each event free of charge, once registration opens later in autumn, to experience Everyday Extraordinary first-hand.

About the LBX:

The all-new, all-hybrid electric LBX is the smallest Lexus yet, but fully deserving of its status as a landmark model, one which breaks down the traditional luxury hierarchy and which will be a game-changer for the brand in Europe. As a new shape within Lexus’ well-established SUV line-up, it offers strong appeal to a younger audience and those who may not have considered a Lexus before.

Learn more about the all-new Lexus LBX at https://newsroom.lexus.eu/world-premiere-of-the-all-new-lexus-lbx/.

Lexus will return to Milan Design Week this year with a new installation by acclaimed New York artist and architect Suchi Reddy. ‘Shaped by Air’ will form the centrepiece of its presence at the world-leading celebration of international design. The occasion will also see the public unveiling of the prototypes created by the four winners in the 2023 Lexus Design Award.

Reddy, the founder of Reddymade Architecture and Design, drew inspiration from the curves and craftsmanship of the Lexus Electrified Sport coupe. She has produced an elegant and airy artwork that expresses the sustainability, innovation and design excellence that are fundamental to the Lexus brand ethos. ‘Shaped by Air’ celebrates the collaborators’ shared commitment to human-centred, carbon-neutral and impeccably crafted design. Its Milan unveiling follows its premiere at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami), during Miami Art and Design Week 2022.

Reddy has re-imagined her installation specifically for the context of its appearance at Milan’s Superstudio from April 17 to 23. The work presents a to-scale interpretation of the Lexus Electrified Sport, shaped by light and with vibrant green leaf-like cut-out shapes that suggest movement through nature. For the Milan presentation, these forms will be suspended from the ceiling like a mobile, calling to mind shapes in the vehicle’s design and the cut-outs of Henri Matisse.

Reddy commented: “Lexus’ continued commitment to innovation – and its support of an artistic approach that is a confluence of art and design – led me to envision this immersive experience as both a sculpture and a multisensory spatial experience.”

The sculpture is partially made of recycled/re-used consumer materials and conveys a sense of movement. At first glance, the pieces appear abstract, but as the viewer moves closer, they reveal the outline of a car. Reddy, whose design ethos has been described as a “form follows feeling” approach, has carefully calibrated the installation’s environment to make it welcoming, contemplative and enveloping. The aim is to give visitors to the exhibition a sense of walking through a forest with rustling leaves underfoot. The event will also reflect Lexus’ famous Omotenashi hospitality with an elevated lounge for rest and reflection.

LEXUS DESIGN AWARD WINNERS’ PROTOTYPES

A gallery alongside the ‘Shaped by Air’ installation will display the prototype works created by the four winners in the Lexus Design Award 2023, design concepts which capture Lexus’ belief that design can help deliver positive change for the world. Now in its 11^th year, the award celebrates and nurtures new creative talent from around the globe. This year’s winners, selected from 2,068 entries from 63 different countries, are Pavels Hedström (Sweden, based in Denmark), Jiaming Liu (China), Temporary Office, (Vincent Lai, Singapore and Douglas Lee, Canada, based in USA) and Kyeongho Park and Yejin Heo (Republic of Korea). Further details about the winners and their design concepts are available at the Lexus Europe newsroom here.

The Lexus Design Award 2023 brief invited designers to submit concepts that anticipate the challenge of the future, while articulating the Lexus brand principles of Anticipate, Innovate and Captivate and enhancing people’s happiness. This year, Lexus is hosting a People’s Choice award, where members of the public can vote for their favourite among the design concepts. The voting will be open in April, both to visitors to the presentation and to those viewing the works online.

Brian Bolain, Lexus Head of Global Marketing, said: “We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with the inimitable Suchi Reddy and see the Lexus Electrified Sport come to life alongside the work of our Lexus Design Award winners. Suchi’s commitment to designing for a better tomorrow captures the innovative spirit of the award and we cannot imagine a more perfect synergy for this year’s presentation.”

Lexus has created compelling, immersive experience for visitors at Milan Design Week since 2005, partnering with such world-renowned creatives as Philippe Nigro, Neri Oxman, Sou Fujinoto, Rhizomatics and Germane Barnes, among others.

Notes to editors :

Event details

Dates:     Press Day April 17, 2pm to 9pm; Public Days April 18 to 23, 11am to 9pm

Venue:   Superstudio Più, Via Tortona, 27, 20144 Milan, Italy

Exhibits: ‘Shaped by Air’ installation by Suchi Reddy and prototype works by the winners of the Lexus Design Award 2023

About Suchi Reddy

Suchi Reddy founded Reddymade in 2002 with a human-centric approach to design, dedicated to celebrating diversity and equality, as well as addressing the economic, social, environmental and cultural impacts of her work on both the user and the planet.

Reddy is the 2022 Walton Critic at the Catholic University of America School of Architecture. In 2019, she was appointed the Plym Distinguished Professor at the University of Illinois School of Architecture, Champaign–Urbana, where her work focused on contemporary architectural experience through the lens of neuroaesthetics, neurophenomenology, and sensory design. Reddy has presented and lectured on the firm’s work at numerous venues including The Salk Institute for the Academy of Neuroscience for Architecture’s annual conference, the University of Illinois, and the University of Wisconsin.  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.

Reddymade has received numerous awards for design excellence, including being recognised by the American Institute of Architects and NYCxDesign. Regularly featured in print and online media, the work of Reddymade actively contributes to a social and cultural discourse that explores how neuroaesthetics and designing for wellbeing positively impact all people.

The Davis Cup by Rakuten Finals 2022 concluded yesterday with the Canadian team crowned worthy winners. Taking place in Malaga from November 22 to 27, competitors experienced the inimitable hospitality that has become synonymous with the Lexus brand. As the official car sponsor of the tournament, Lexus was responsible for the transportation of players and teams to and from the tennis village, across the group and knock-out stages of the competition.

With a focus on “Lexus Electrified”, the brand’s ongoing sustainability vision, the partnership with the Davis Cup brought about an opportunity for Lexus to connect with tennis fans that share their passion for craftsmanship, dedication, and artistry. Spotted throughout the finals were the RX 500h performance turbo hybrid, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, the battery electric RZ 450e and the UX 250h self-charging hybrid.

Pascal Ruch, Vice President in charge of Lexus Europe, commented:

“We have been treated to another exhilarating Davis Cup Finals this year. Lexus has the incredible honor of sharing the stage with some of the most talented athletes in the world of tennis, and fans of the competition were in for a treat. As official automotive partner, Lexus was responsible for facilitating luxurious and comfortable transportation for all athletes and teams – an electrifying opportunity to showcase Japan’s famous philosophy of Omotenashi.”

David Ferrer, Director of the Davis Cup Finals, said: 

"Much like the incredible talent and determination of this year’s finalists, we’re proud to consider Lexus a supporter of the competition and one of the long-standing partners that help us deliver the largest annual world championship in sport. For the 143 nations that entered this year, to the 16-team round-robin in the Finals, Lexus has stood out as a key partner in ensuring an amazing experience for competitors and fans alike.”

#DavisCupFinals / @DavisCup

About the Davis Cup:

Founded in 1900, Davis Cup by Rakuten is the men’s world cup of tennis and the largest annual team competition in sport. 143 nations entered in 2022 and will compete across multiple levels of the competition from regional events to the pinnacle of the Davis Cup by Rakuten Finals. Sixteen teams participated in this year's Finals Group Stage, which was held on September 13-18 in Bologna, Glasgow, Hamburg and Valencia. The top two teams from each venue automatically qualified for the ‘Final 8’ in Malaga on November 22-27.

The striking design, produced by Reed and Lexus under licence from Warner Bros. Consumer Products, gives a contemporary twist to one of the movie’s themes: what if Dorothy had ignored the advice to “follow the yellow brick road” and taken the road less travelled instead? This echoes the RX’s reputation as a vehicle that captures the spirit of exploration and encourages journeys off the beaten track.

Harris Reed commented: “As a gender-fluid designer, I’ve always been fuelled and inspired by choosing the path less travelled. With the bold new design of the Lexus RX and the cinematic Hollywood classic “The Wizard of Oz,” I took inspiration from the literal interpretation of choosing your own path and pursuing a new journey down the red brick road, with a nod to the film’s iconic ruby slippers and my own designs.”

In creating the “Ruby Red Rims,” Reed took styling cues from two signature hat designs he produced for his recent Spring 2023 ready-to-wear collection. The backs of the rims are made of solid aluminium, finished with gloss-sealed glitter. The central Lexus logo sits in a polished ruby core that is brought to life by LED lights, while slim, radiating fins reveal the inner red colour from different angles. This creates a sense of magic as the wheels turn that celebrates the power of the ruby slippers. The dramatic change in colour signifies the transition between different worlds.

For more information about the all-new Lexus RX, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/the-all-new-rx/world-premiere/

·       The campaign marks the launch of the new compact crossover UX, one of Lexus’ best-selling models in Europe

·       Joy’s hit song “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” features as the soundtrack for the television commercial (TVC)

Today, Lexus reveals its campaign for the new UX, starring internationally acclaimed, BRIT-nominated and Mercury Prize-shortlisted Joy Crookes as its face and voice.

The collaboration marks a shift in the brand’s talent strategy to reach a younger, more diverse, and socially engaged audience. Crookes is the embodiment of the new Lexus consumer, an ambassador discerningly redefining modern luxury and style.

Coupled with her talent, Joy’s striking style is a curated fusion of cultures and eras, influenced by her upbringing in richly diverse South London. The result is an intentionally unique and powerful aesthetic that shines in every creative output she produces, ensuring she is always pushing visual boundaries while celebrating her heritage. Crookes also uses her platform to raise awareness of issues close to her heart, including sustainability, focusing on how future generations should have access to natural spaces, no matter where they come from. 

The new campaign celebrates the concept of “the energy that drives you on”, and sees Joy enjoying the UX as a space to facilitate her childhood dream of being a world-renowned musician. Acting as a vehicle for her creativity and fast-paced lifestyle, Joy harnesses her passion and energy, two characteristics that continually drive her on.

Content created with Joy falls under several creative pillars, with the underlying narrative that the UX is the facilitator of her metropolitan exploration. Four short films bring this concept to life: viewers are taken on this exciting journey with Joy, firstly with a trip to the beach. Other films follow Joy through a vibrant metropolis, whilst highlighting the UX’s state-of-the-art technology and amazing driving experience. In a vehicle developed with the idea of ‘Continuous Evolution’ in mind, Joy is seen enjoying a drive in her Lexus UX, exploring the city using the faster and more intuitive Lexus Premium Navigation multimedia with ‘Hey Lexus’ voice assistant and cloud updates, which she uses to play the soundtrack of the campaign, ‘Feet Don’t Fail Me Now’.

Improved smartphone integration in the UX means apps are displayed on the new extra-large 12.3” HD or 8” touchscreens, that are now positioned closer to the driver for easier interaction. Meanwhile, the new Lexus Link connected services app helps enhance the driving experience, with intelligent features such as remote air conditioning and remote lock/unlock. Capitalising on Joy’s diverse and far-reaching social following, the campaign also includes exciting content shot for Instagram and TikTok – another opportunity to target a new and more social-savvy audience.

Additional key features and upgrades in the Lexus UX include the introduction of the new F Sport Design grade with sporty exterior design features, as well as the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and front/rear performance rods which are standard features for the UX F SPORT. New exterior colour, bi-tone paintwork options and interior upholstery choices create a truly personalised experience for those seeking Lexus’ world-renowned Omotenashi philosophy.

Revisions to the UX’s Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane.

Joy Crookes: “Creativity in all forms gives me energy and inspiration. Working on the new UX campaign, I’ve seen first-hand Lexus’ commitment to craftsmanship and creativity. Like the Lexus UX customer, I’m always striving to express myself. I’m fortunate enough to be able to do that through my music, fashion, and art, and I am thankful that Lexus provided a new platform for me to do just that.”

Pascal Ruch, Vice President in charge of Lexus Europe: “Joy embodies Lexus’ passion and energy for creativity, design and sustainability. Her unique style and bold personality make her the perfect ambassador for the new Lexus UX.”

The new Lexus UX campaign is available to view online at https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/ux/ux-mc-joy-crookes/ and includes a television commercial, OOH advertising, digital advertising, CRM and social media content (both Instagram and TikTok).

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

For the world-premiere press release, please visit: https://newsroom.lexus.eu/lexus-ux-upgrades-deliver-new-tech-improved-handling-and-more-choice/

Lexus has been announced as an official principal partner of the Davis Cup by Rakuten Finals 2022, which takes place across a number of major European cities. The competition will kick off with the group stages, held in Bologna, Glasgow, Hamburg, and Valencia, from September 13 to 18. Knockout matches will follow, being held in Malaga, Spain, from November 22 to 27.

There is an authentic connection between Lexus and the Davis Cup, with customers and fans both striving for luxurious and unforgettable experiences. With an emphasis on “Lexus Electrified”, the brand’s ongoing sustainability vision, the partnership with the Davis Cup celebrates a synergy between the electrifying energy at one of the world’s most exciting tennis tournaments, and the luxurious thrill of driving an electric or hybrid Lexus model. This year’s focus on Lexus Electrified sees the RX Performance Hybrid, the NX Plug-In Hybrid, the Battery-Electric RZ and the UX Self-Charging Hybrid take center stage at the tournament. The New Generation Lexus RX will feature at matches in Spain and Italy, replaced with the Lexus RZ for matches in Germany and the UK.

As the official car of the Davis Cup, during the tournament, Lexus will be responsible for the official transportation of players and teams from the 16 competing nations to the tennis village.

Founded in 1900, Davis Cup by Rakuten has grown to become the largest annual world championship in sport, with 142 nations entered in 2021. The 16 group stage teams will compete in four round-robin groups of four teams. The top two teams in each group will advance to the quarterfinals. The new Finals format will include a 9 week break between group and knockout stages. Lexus ambassador, Roberto Bautista, will once again represent his native Spain in the competition.

Pascal Ruch, Vice President in charge of Lexus Europe, commented:

“The Davis Cup is one of the most iconic sporting competitions in the world, with a unique format across multiple European cities. Sport, and in particular tennis, is an opportunity to bring together top athletes and fans under one roof - many of whom are seeking luxury, that is personal to them and their passions. Lexus as a brand shares this affinity for incredible dedication to craft, unparalleled luxury and unmissable experiences.“

David Ferrer,  Director of the Davis Cup Finals, said: 

"It is a great luxury to be able to count on Lexus again for the third edition of the Finals. This year's event is being staged in a multi-site format in four countries, and Lexus is demonstrating its enormous capacity for management, service and professionalism. We are confident that, as in the past, the world's best players and teams will be delighted with the performance Lexus will provide at the competition."

#DavisCupFinals / @DavisCup

ENDS

About the Davis Cup:

Founded in 1900, Davis Cup by Rakuten is the men’s world cup of tennis and the largest annual team competition in sport. 143 nations entered in 2022 and will compete across multiple levels of the competition from regional events to the pinnacle of the Davis Cup by Rakuten Finals. Sixteen teams will participate in this year's Finals Group Stage, to be held from September 13 to 18 in Bologna, Glasgow, Hamburg and Valencia. The top two teams from each venue will automatically qualify for the ‘Final 8’ in Malaga from November 22 to 27. 

On August 31, Lexus joined leading figures from the world of cinema, celebrities and VIPs for the opening ceremony of the 79^th Venice International Festival – La Biennale di Venezia. Marking its sixth consecutive year as the Official Car of the festival, the luxury brand brought its latest models to the red carpet event, led by the all-new RX hybrid electric SUV.

The evening saw stars including Julianne Moore, Regé-Jean Page, Rocio Morales, Catherine Deneuve and Tessa Thompson, accompanied to the gala by a fleet of Lexus Electrified vehicles, including the UX, NX, RX and ES.

Lexus’ continued support for the festival reflects the values that are shared between the worlds of cinema and motoring. Both have long been inspired by the desire to widen people’s horizons through travel, time and new experiences. Just as cinema provides a unique medium for creating unforgettable moments, so Lexus also seeks to deliver excitement through its innovative and pioneering spirit.

Likewise, the setting of Venice provides another inspirational link. This unique, magical city creates unforgettable memories, while giving prominence to the issue of sustainability.

“We are excited and proud to return to Venice and have the honour of demonstrating the values that distinguish our brand,” said Maurizio Perinetti, Director of Lexus Italy. “This is a prestigious, high-profile stage for hosting the all-new RX, one of our most iconic models. We hope that the festival and its audiences will recognise and appreciate the design, quality, technology and environmental focus that we have invested in the new RX and the creation of another Lexus Amazing Experience.”

The new RX will feature together with other models from the Lexus Electrified range, including the all-electric UX 300e crossover, in a fleet of 40 vehicles that will be used to chauffeur guests and officials to and from red carpet events, through to the festival’s conclusion on September 10. In keeping with the glamour of the event, the line-up will include the LC 500, Lexus’ multi-award-winning flagship convertible.

Today, Lexus announced details of this year’s participation in the world’s leading event for the vanguard of contemporary design event – Milan Design Week^*. Since its first participation in 2005, Lexus has created compelling, immersive experiences for visitors at Milan Design Week, partnering with leading talent which has included Philippe Nigro, Neri Oxman, Sou Fujimoto, and Rhizomatics among others to create new works of design inspired by Lexus’ values and vision. 

This year’s event, Lexus: Sparks of Tomorrow, will present a trio of design explorations, all inspired by Lexus’ human-centered, future-oriented approach to design.  Compelling and engaging, Lexus: Sparks of Tomorrow, will include an immersive installation by award-winning architect and designer Germane Barnes with lighting studio Aqua Creations, new prototypes from Lexus Design Award 2022 finalists, and work by students at London’s Royal College of art envisioning a more sustainable future. 

Lexus has partnered with Germane Barnes to create a new iteration of the ON/ installation unveiled for Design Miami/ 2021, this time collaborating with Aqua Creations to highlight a commitment to expert craftsmanship and high quality materiality that is central to Lexus’ ethos.  This version of the installation, debuting in Milan, takes the RZ as the central inspiration, the first dedicated battery-electric model in the Lexus line-up. The installation is centered around a precisely-to-scale, three-dimensional sculptural realization of the RZ, rendered in steel and illuminated; the frame of the car glows and is suspended just above the ground, a vision of a more sustainable future coming into focus. 

Building on this principle of a concept coming to life, the installation will feature Aqua Creations’ Code 130 ° collection of colourful pendant lights illuminating the vehicle, which add a delicate, material, and joyful quality to the immersive installation.  Shifting from the futuristic lighting scheme featured in Miami, the lighting from Aqua Creations creates an elegant, physical embodiment of electricity that exemplifies a shared commitment to principles of design excellence evident in the expertly crafted RZ.

ON/ creates an environment that is designed to engage viewers of all ages, providing an experience that is both visually dynamic and interactive while offering an inviting space to recharge and reflect. The installation will be accompanied by an adjacent lounge area featuring the new ToTeM lighting collection by Aqua Creations, providing discrete areas for rest, repose, and recharging--reflecting the brand's commitment to the principle of omotenashi (exceptional hospitality).

Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore the work of the six finalists in the Lexus Design Award 2022, promising talent whose fresh ideas receive a high-profile cross-media introduction on an established platform respected by the global creative community. Finalists were chosen for their original solutions contributing to a better tomorrow, while articulating the Lexus brand's three core principles―Anticipate, Innovate, and Captivate; while seamlessly enhancing the happiness of all. 

Finalists include Charlotte Böhning & Mary Lempres (Dual USA - Germany and Dual USA - Norway / Based in USA), Wondaleaf (Malaysia), Team Dunamis (Nigeria), Poh Yun Ru (Singapore), Kristil & Shamina (Russia), and Kou Mikuni (Japan). Now in its tenth year, the award celebrates up-and-coming creative talent from around the world. This year’s Grand Prix winner, selected by a panel comprising renowned creative visionaries Paola Antonelli, Anupama Kundoo, Bruce Mau and Simon Humphries, will be announced on May 12.

Lexus’ presentation will also include work by students, representing a future generation of international design talent, that present radical new luxury transport concepts in a creative programme commissioned by Lexus, “2040: The Soul of Future Premium”. This exploration of how luxury transport might evolve towards the middle of the 21st century was launched in September 2021 by Lexus in partnership with the Royal College of Art (RCA) in London, one of the world’s most prestigious and influential centres for art and design research and learning.

The challenge was to explore new vehicle architectures to meet changes in European city life, society and demographics and to re-imagine the role the Lexus brand might play in the region's mobility landscape beyond the next two decades. It inspired original work from 20 postgraduate students at the RCA’s Intelligent Mobility Design Centre, an interdisciplinary centre of design and research excellence.

Duration

June 6 – 12, 11 am to 9 pm

Venue

Superstudio Più (Art Point)

Via Tortona, 27 20144 – Milano, Italy

Exhibits

Installation created by Germane Barnes with Aqua Creations

Designs by the six finalists in the Lexus Design Award 2022

Designs by students at the Royal College of Art (RCA) in London

The two concept vehicles on display are models that embody Lexus’ efforts to realize a carbon neutral society, expand customer choices, challenge to suggest diversifying and expanding lifestyles, and provide new values that exceed expectations.

The aim is to balance the refined lifestyle and driving pleasure that cars provide our customers, while living in harmony with nature.

The NX PHEV OFFROAD Concept is based on Lexus' first PHEV model that went on sale in November 2021, the NX 450h+. The NX offers refined driving performance and excellent environmental performance that reduces CO2 emissions. The body inspires an adventurous lifestyle with its lifted platform, off-road running all-terrain large diameter tires and beautifully finished customized bronze and matte black paint scheme.

The ROV Concept goes beyond traditional on and off-road driving along with its compact body and aims to provide a driving experience in nature unlike any passenger vehicle. In addition, it is the first Lexus vehicle to use a hydrogen engine, making it environmentally friendly while still providing stimulation and excitement coming from the sound and vibrations of an engine-powered vehicle. 

*1 - ROV is the abbreviation for Recreational Off highway Vehicle. A concept car that aims to offer an enjoyable automotive lifestyle while living in harmony with nature. The ROV goes one step further into places where even off-road vehicles cannot go, all while providing excellent response and exhilarating sound that stimulates the five senses.

A 1/3 scale model of Yoshihide Muroya's Zivko Edge 540 V3 airplane will be displayed. Muroya will be participating in the Air Race World Championship this year with the "LEXUS/PATHFINDER AIR RACING" team.

Lexus and air race pilot Muroya have signed a team partnership agreement and they will further accelerate their joint efforts so that they could quickly link technologies and know-how of both sides to develop racing machines as well as the racing operation. Under the new team structure, Lexus strives to make history with Muroya to win the first championship of The Air Race.

Lexus will also utilize its aerodynamic, cooling, and weight-reduction technologies and know-how gained through grueling air races to create ever-better cars for the realization of a carbon-neutral society.

NX PHEV Concept Overview (Custom parts added to base vehicle NX 450h+)

ROV Concept Overview

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The star-studded Finals attracted iconic names in the world of sport, music, fashion, film and politics, with attendees including former Portugal international footballer Luis Figo, Mexican international footballer Rafa Marquez and actress Jaydy Michel, Spanish footballing legend Fernando Hierro and Tennis player Fernando Verdasco.

As part of their commitment to the partnership, Lexus was responsible for the official transportation of players and teams from the 18 competing nations to the tennis village. In addition to the finals in Madrid, Group Stage and quarter-final ties were contested in Innsbruck, Austria and Turin, Italy.

With shared values and beliefs, and both entities striving for unmatched luxury and cherished experiences, the synergy between Lexus and The Davis Cup is clear. The all-new Lexus NX takes centre court as the official car of the tournament, heralding a new chapter for the Japanese car manufacturer. The NX offers new directions in exterior/interior design and new powertrains, which includes Lexus’ first ever plug-in hybrid electric, dynamic improvements that deliver a more rewarding and connected driving experience and next generation multimedia and connectivity. The NX’s “Feel More” campaign runs in tandem with a competition celebrated for its vibrant, emotionally charged, and often unforgettable moments of “feeling”, whether that be passion, happiness, sadness, or surprise.

Following the final, Lexus social media channels released exclusive IGTV interview content with Italian player Fabio Fognini, Austrian Dennis Novak and Brit Daniel Evans, reflecting on their thrilling, and sometimes turbulent, tennis careers.

The Davis Cup was first founded in 1900 and has since grown to become the largest annual world championship in sport, with 142 nations entered in 2021. The new Finals format, which saw the top 18 nations compete to be crowned Davis Cup champions, was introduced in 2019 with Spain winning the title in Madrid.

Spiros Fotinos, Head of Lexus Europe, commented: “As this iconic competition comes to an end, we’re grateful to the tournament organisers, players and fans for contributing to such a diverse, memorable and unique experience. There is a natural connection between Lexus and The Davis Cup when comparing the dedication, mastery and craftsmanship that both the NX designers and participating athletes exhibit to produce world-beating results that are at the pinnacle of their industry.”

Enric Rojas, Kosmos Tennis CEO, said: "Lexus’ return as the official automotive partner of The Davis Cup further cements the incredible relationship between the two organisations. This year's multi-site format, across three countries, was an opportunity for Lexus to showcase to the world its ability to create unforgettable experiences for an engaged luxury audience of tennis fans. With the industry’s eyes fixed on this iconic competition, both players and teams experienced a level of service and hospitality that has become synonymous with Lexus’ inimitable interpretation of the Omotenashi philosophy.”

About the Davis Cup:

Founded in 1900, Davis Cup by Rakuten has grown to become the largest annual world championship in sport, with 142 nations entered in 2021. The new Finals format, which sees the top 18 nations compete to be crowned Davis Cup champions, was introduced in 2019 with Spain winning the title in Madrid. The 2021 Finals - held from 25 November until 5 December - will see the 2019 semi-finalists and two wild card nations joined by the 12 winning teams from the 2020 Qualifiers. Madrid will be the host city for the group stage, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final of this year edition, while Innsbruck (Austria) and Turin (Italy) will be host cities for the group stage and the quarter-finals. The Finals have been held since 2019 with the support of the Greater Madrid and Madrid City Council.

Lexus has revealed a new ROV (Recreational Off-highway Vehicle) Concept, a unique hydrogen-powered vehicle offering near zero-emissions driving combined with extreme off-road capability. It reflects a commitment by Lexus to ensure exhilarating driving can co-exist with a carbon-free society centred on responsible mobility.

Adventurous looks inspired by bold Lexus design

For the Lexus ROV Concept, the design team developed a vehicle that would look good in all kinds of natural environments. The car bears all the true hallmarks of an off-road vehicle with its exposed suspension, protective cage and chunky off-road tyres for driving along muddy tracks. Dimensions are: 3,120 mm (length), 1,725 mm (width), 1,800 mm (height).

With the Lexus’ "human centred" philosophy as their starting point, the design team wanted to create the kind of vehicle people would expect from a luxury carmaker yet without losing the rugged performance of an ROV. They designed a body that could protect passengers, incorporate the iconic Lexus signature grille and preserve enough travel for the front suspension. In addition, the front fenders were conceived to offer protection against any stray rocks and mud.

The suspension cover, connected to the rear hydrogen fuel tank, protects functional parts as well as conveying the sense of durability inherited from Lexus SUVs. The dark bronze paint is carefully crafted along with a lightweight body and suspension designed for both comfort and fun off-road driving. Lexus ‘L’-motif front and rear lights and the rear LEXUS badge express the latest Lexus design language.

Inside, based on the Tazuna concept, it has a simple meter that instantly reads the information the driver needs while the driver concentrates on driving.

Feel the Lexus quality and craftsmanship

The new concept showcases outstanding build quality with the luxury feel of Lexus craftsmanship in both the interior and exterior, as never been seen before in a ROV. Luxury details include a leather steering wheel and a sculpted shift knob and seats which feature suspension elements that smooth bumps out of the ride. The seats are upholstered in hard-wearing synthetic leather. For demanding off-road driving, the first Lexus hydrogen ICE will meet all the carmaker’s stringent requirements for QDR (Quietness, Durability, Reliability).

Clean yet exciting hydrogen power

While tackling its carbon neutrality goals, Lexus is passionate about the enjoyment of driving cars. This ROV Concept embodies the exciting sound of an ICE and the responsive rise in torque that comes from the fast combustion speed of hydrogen, which Lexus believe is highly compatible with the ROV.

This hydrogen powered ROV concept is the result of Lexus’ desire to preserve true off-road pleasure in tomorrow’s low carbon society. To power this off-road fun, the 1.0-litre hydrogen engine works just like a petrol engine, but with a high-pressure tank for compressed hydrogen which is delivered precisely by a direct hydrogen injector. Importantly, Lexus’ new hydrogen engine produces close to zero emissions, with a negligible amount of engine oil burned during driving.

Developed with its own ‘Lexus Driving Signature’

With a lightweight body composed of a strong pipe frame and suspension that boasts a large amount of travel, the driver will enjoy the car's natural movements, the distinctive ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ and the possibility to go anywhere they desire. Designed for dynamic and comfortable driving, the agile design and the responsiveness of the hydrogen engine make the Lexus ROV a fun vehicle to drive with exceptional off-road capability.

Spiros Fotinos, Head of Lexus Europe, comments: “The Lexus ROV is our response to the growing passion for the outdoors and adventurous spirit of luxury consumers. As a concept, it fuses our desire to also develop lifestyle-oriented products with our ongoing research into new technologies that contribute to carbon neutrality. As well as delivering a concept that is thrilling to drive, it has near zero emissions thanks to its hydrogen powered engine.”

The title of the installation alludes to an on/off switch as a vision of a carbon-neutral future powered by electric technology. ON/ creates an environment that is designed to engage viewers of all ages, providing an experience that is both visually dynamic and interactive while offering an inviting space to recharge and reflect.

The installation is centered around a three-dimensional sculptural rendition of the LF-Z Electrified Concept car rendered in steel and illuminated with embedded LED lighting. The frame of the car glows and is suspended just above the ground, a vision of a more sustainable future coming into focus. Two swings anchor the display, each suspended within illuminated arches in a nod to the classical architecture that is both foundational to the design of civic infrastructure and central to the University of Miami’s curriculum, alluding to a gateway between our present and the possibilities of the future.

This arch is echoed in furniture with embedded LED lighting designed by Barnes and his team specifically for the installation, providing discrete areas for rest, repose, and recharging -- reflecting the brand’s commitment to the principle of omotenashi (exceptional hospitality).

The entire installation is unified by a unique lighting scheme, designed to enable engagement from users around the world via an interactive virtual model unveiled online alongside the physical display. Participants are invited to create their own lighting designs for the display, altering the colour of various features including the walls, car, swings, and furniture. Barnes and his team will select a series of the user-generated designs to showcase onsite, spotlighting the creative vision of entries from around the world.

The online virtual model can be accessed at the following site: https://lexuscolorcreation.com/

“As a global brand with commitment to the Japanese design principles of takumi (expert craftsmanship) and omotenashi (exceptional hospitality) and a mission to build towards a carbon-neutral future, Lexus embodies elements that are essential markers of high-quality design for today, while also echoing my personal values. Designing for a future that is collaborative, sustainable, equitable, and prioritizes the unique experiences of individuals is both a driving force of my practice and my work with students here at the University of Miami. As Design Miami/ opens, we’re excited to see how the public engages with the installation, both in-person and online, and makes our vision for the future their own,” commented Germane Barnes, Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Architecture.

“We’re thrilled to bring this incredible project from Germane Barnes and the University of Miami to Design Miami/ in our fourth year of partnership with the fair,” commented Brian Bolain, Lexus’ global head of marketing. “As we look towards next generation design, this project has given us a chance to highlight Lexus’ commitment to electrification while working closely with the students at UMiami who are incredibly talented and truly represent the future of design and innovation.”

A unique airline lounge concept, centred on guests experiencing comfort, technology and design with a blend of ‘Belgitude’ and Japanese hospitality, THE LOFT has won this prized accolade each year since it first opened in 2018. Following the pandemic, it reopened in June of this year after an eight-month closure. Guests are welcomed with the highest health safety standards including discreet COVID signage and bespoke touches like a personal welcome and seating process, traditional warm Japanese ‘Oshibori’ towels and digital newspapers. In catering the buffet concept was adjusted to reduce infection risks and while waiting for the passionate Neuhaus maître chocolatier to return, Neuhaus chocolate has continued to be offered to all lounge guests.

Wencke Lemmes-Pireaux, Head of Customer Experience, Product & Marketing: “ It is remarkable how our welcoming staff succeeds in providing our guests with a relaxing experience in the LOFT and this under challenging circumstances. Together with our partners who are driven by the highest quality, we made it our mission to make our guests feel well taken care of every day. The fact that, next to travel and tourism professionals, these same customers have chosen for the third consecutive time for the LOFT by Brussels Airlines and Lexus as “Europe’s Leading Airport Lounge 2021” is the greatest reward we could get. I wish to thank the team as well as all involved partners for their commitment to excellence and for always putting hospitality, and herewith our customers, first.”

Pascal Ruch, TME Vice President Lexus Europe, said: “Winning this award for the third time running with THE LOFT rounds off an amazing year for Lexus, with highlights like the all-new NX 450h Plug-in Hybrid and NX 350h Self-Charging Hybrid. Above all it reflects our world-class Japanese ‘Omotenashi’ service ethos where we anticipate customer needs, offering them safety and peace-of-mind during the pandemic.”

THE LOFT at Brussels Airport draws on award-winning INTERSECT BY LEXUS brand spaces in Tokyo, Dubai and in New York’s fashionable Meatpacking District. This new airline lounge concept for international travellers was inspired by Lexus luxury, design and the traditional Japanese ‘Omotenashi’ hospitality. It marks a further expansion of Lexus beyond the premium automotive world as a global luxury lifestyle brand.

Covering an area of more than 2,000 m², THE LOFT offers seating for up to 500 guests. It is divided into areas with distinctive ambiences and features, including a central bar, seating zones and a break-out space that is ideal for those who need to work while on the move.

In line with the brand proposition to ‘Feel More’, lounge guests are provided with a wealth of facilities to make their visit feel relaxing and enjoyable, together with opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of Lexus. They are invited to feel more luxurious with a masterclass hosted by a Neuhaus maître chocolatier; feel more relaxed in SPA Grohe shower suites’, nap rooms with starlit ceilings and LS Shiatsu-effect massage chairs; feel more inspired by award winning arts and design elements by Lexus, including a Lexus Boardroom with its Mark Levison^® audio system; and feel more entertained at regular events ranging from wine tasting to music recitals.

THE LOFT is once again fully operational, with Lexus Brand Ambassadors providing a Omotenashi welcome to guests each day from 05.00am till 09.00pm.

More information on THE LOFT by Brussels Airlines and Lexus can be found at : THE LOFT By Lexus | Lexus Europe

ABOUT THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Celebrating its 28th anniversary in 2021, its programme is the most prestigious and comprehensive in the industry. Each year the World Travel Award travels the globe with its Grand Tour – a series of regional gala ceremonies, culminating in a Grand Fina.

World Travel Awards gala ceremonies are regarded as milestone events in the travel calendar, attended by the industry's key decision-makers, figureheads and media. Despite the ongoing global challenges, the appetite for travel has reached new and unprecedented levels. Evidence is reflected in the World Travel Awards annual voting figures. In 2019, we reported a record 1,945,965 votes cast, a 17% increase on the previous record. In 2020, a record 2,033,494 votes were cast.

It is Lexus’ 12th year of sponsorship support for the event, having begun its association in with the Chopin and His Europe Festival in 2009, in preparation for the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth and the 16th edition of the competition the following year.

Lexus will once again be providing transport for participants between the competition venues with a fleet of more than a dozen self-charging hybrid electric vehicles. The famous quietness and smooth performance of the Lexus cars will provide a calm and safe environment that will help the artists relax and focus on their performances.

Lexus is renowned for delivering concert hall-quality sound inside its cars, reflected in its industry-first exclusive partnership with high-end audio specialists Mark Levinson. Each new Lexus model is available with a bespoke Mark Levinson premium surround sound system, designed to achieve the best sound reproduction quality in that particular vehicle. This sound quality is supported by extensive, detailed measures to insulate the car’s interior from intrusive external noises.

That quality is appreciated by Jan Lisiecki, the world-famous Polish-Canadian pianist who is an acclaimed interpreter of Chopin’s work and a leading advocate of Lexus. He commented: “In many cars the quality of the audio equipment is such that all you can hear is a rumble. A Lexus – not least because they are mostly hybrid cars – is quiet and the quality of the equipment and the number of speakers allow you to hear individual instruments in an orchestra. You sit comfortably, feeling like you are in a concert hall. You don’t get that experience in any other car.”

The 18th edition of the competition, postponed from 2020 due to the global pandemic, features 87 pianists whose skills will be judged by an eminent jury of 17 representatives from the world of piano music. The competition rounds will continue to determine the finalists who will return to compete for the top placings on 18-20 October ahead of the prize-winners concerts on 21-23 October.

All auditions are streamed in 4K via the Chopin Competition mobile app (available on iOS and Android), the Chopin2020.pl website (Multimedia tab) and on the Chopin Institute YouTube channel.

Lexus has today launched a new design project to explore how luxury transport might evolve towards the middle of the 21st century. It is partnering with the Royal College of Art (RCA) in London for “Lexus 2040: The Soul of Future Premium,” a program for postgraduate students at the college’s Intelligent Mobility Design Centre.

Students from the RCA’s Intelligent Mobility Master of Arts degree course will explore new vehicle architectures to meet the needs of societal and demographic changes in European cities and new vehicle usage models.

The students will also be challenged to re-imagine the role Lexus brand could play in the European mobility landscape beyond the next two decades, addressing issues of sustainability, future lifestyles and how emerging technologies could help shape a relevant and impactful vision for the brand.

The RCA is one of the world’s most prestigious and influential postgraduate universities for art and design research and education. Its Intelligent Mobility Design Centre was established in 2016 as an interdisciplinary centre of excellence in design and research for future mobility that can deliver social, environmental and economic benefits.

The new program is perfectly aligned with Lexus’ status as an international luxury lifestyle brand and its core commitment to brave design, craftsmanship and imaginative technologies. It also reflects the brand’s human-centred approach and the spirit of Omotenashi, addressing the priorities and needs of each customer as an individual.

Lexus will directly support the project with mentorship from the leading creatives at its European Design Development centre, ED², in the South of France, giving the students a deeper insight into real-world advanced automotive design thinking and techniques. At a kick-off meeting with the students at the RCA in Battersea, ED² representatives gave a briefing on the Lexus brand and its L-finesse design philosophy which encompasses refinement, anticipation, simplicity and awareness. They also explained the importance of the brand’s Japanese heritage and its human centric design approach.

The program is scheduled to run for four months, during which time students will research future scenarios to produce informed design perspectives about and how and where the Lexus brand might evolve. This will provide the starting point for design concept propositions, developed through tutorials and group workshops, leading to the creation of 2D visions in film and digital media and 3D models and experiments.

The three best projects will be selected for further development and the production of exhibition-quality renderings in film and scale models. These will form part of a concluding project show at the RCA, together with all the related digital media work, in January 2022.

Professor Dale Harrow, Chair and Head of the Intelligent Mobility Design Centre at the RCA, welcomed the new partnership: “The IMDC is dedicated to the design and research of advanced mobility. The staff and students are delighted to be partnering with Lexus on The Soul of Future Premium project to discover and present new directions for mobility in Europe.”

Dr Chris Thorpe, the Head of Programme for the Intelligent Mobility MA at the RCA, added: “The current MA cohort reflects the interests and concerns of a global GenZ mindset – bringing an invaluable perspective to this project and highlighting the value of the IMDC, which combines MA students and design research teams to deliver vision.”

Ian Cartabiano, President of ED² said: “As a world-leading centre for new automotive design thinking, the RCA is the perfect partner to help us explore the future of luxury premium travel in Europe and to examine opportunities for our brand to evolve and deliver real benefits to our customers and to society in the years ahead. With the support of our own design experts, we will also play our part in helping this new creative talent realise their potential and envision exciting, relevant and sustainable mobility for the future.”

The artworks were commissioned from seven artists and designers in different European countries with a brief to capture the driving pleasures and beautiful design of the open-top LC. These were displayed on Lexus’ social media channels during the past month, where people could vote for their favourites, prompting a close contest for the top honour.

In total, 3,459 votes were cast with top three placings taken by Georgia, then Spain, with David de la Heras’ view of the Sierra de Madrid, and then France, with Matthieu Forichon depicting the LC Convertible amid the scenery of the French Riviera.

A prize draw will now select 10 lucky winners at random from among those who voted for the Georgian entry. Each of whom will receive a framed print of the poster and some Lexus give-aways (winners will be notified by email).

Nino Gordeladze, Executive Creative Director of Windfor’s in the Georgian capital, described the design: “The start of an unforgettable summer adventure is around the corner – the sensation of freedom elevated with style and charisma, and in this case, the gorgeous city of Batumi stands waiting on the horizon, offering a rollercoaster of sweet summer fun.”

Our bodies were designed to move, and not just during the time we set aside for the gym. It’s not just about aesthetic results, and now, more than ever, we’re considering the broader implications of exercise on our overall wellbeing.

According to the Lexus report The Art of Feeling More, as we emerge from a period of regimented living and limited freedoms, we’re seeking out new avenues of pleasure and freedom through movement. The mental health benefits of dance are now well-documented, and Oleg Ivenko, master ballet dancer at the Tatar State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre and recipient of the prestigious Positano Premia la Danza Léonide Massine, is a firm believer in the positive properties of his profession: “We’re witnessing a rise of interest in amateur ballet dancing, because more people are realising that dance improves your body’s condition. Moving your body can also help you discharge negative feelings and improve your overall mental health - it is a workout for the mind as well as the body and soul.” 

The star of Ralph Fiennes’ The White Crow also sees dance as a primary way of sparking happiness: “Dancing can bring so much joy because it is akin to meditation. It is freeing, inspiring, uplifting and creative. It has the ability to stir such positive emotions in people, whether watching dance or dancing yourself. It can transport you to another world.” 

Dance is as much a challenge for your brain (requiring a combination of vision, rhythm, balance, coordination) as it is for your body. Despite how you might feel at your friend’s wedding, the act of dance - of rhythmic movement - is a primal instinct. As Steven J. Mithen, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Reading, states: “dance and music likely became an important tool of social interaction as soon as humans could walk and talk.”

Ivenko agrees with this summation, saying that after a long time without social interaction, “I believe that there will be a return to those shared experiences and that communal dance will come back stronger. We are social beings, we need connection and dance is a beautiful way to make connections in a positive and healthy way.”

These emotional and physical connections aren’t just limited to the self: our interactions with other objects are just as important for a healthy approach to our lives, especially in pursuits like driving. The Lexus NX offers sharper steering with a redesigned steering wheel, and new, ergonomically advanced accelerator and brake pedals for a more comfortable drive. The unique Lexus Driving Signature offers an experience that is entirely obedient to the driver’s intentions – a seamless transition from braking to steering and acceleration through a corner. Advanced aerodynamics and a lower centre of gravity make you the centre of the action, immediately connecting you to the car and providing an exhilarating driving experience.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/

The increased time all of us have spent at home this year has encouraged many of us to try out new things, with the arts and crafts movement experiencing an explosion of interest. From ceramics, to making chocolate babka, to becoming an origami expert, the concept of ‘busy hands, calm mind’ has been embraced across the globe by people who want to improve a skill or experience the therapeutic benefits of working with their hands.

British designer Daniel W. Fletcher is a strong believer in these benefits: “In my day to day life I spend a lot of time on the phone and my laptop - this was heightened last year by the lack of face-to-face meetings and introduction of Zoom to my life - so working with my hands is something I really value. “

“Getting on a sewing machine and making something physical really takes me to a different place, it forces me not to look at my emails for a while which is something we should all be doing more of. There is also a huge sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing something physical come together in front of you.”

This trend can also be seen elsewhere at the elite fashion level, from Loewe’s Weaves Collection to the Manufacto Skills Factory by Hermès. According to The Art of Feeling More, published by Lexus in collaboration with trend forecasters WGSN, hand-crafted products and investment in manual skills will increasingly be perceived as luxury, as such special pieces can act as heirlooms, transferring both financial and emotional value to the next generation.

Connection and value aren’t limited to heirlooms, with other prized possessions able to showcase consideration and craftsmanship. The all-new Lexus NX, designed by the marque’s legendary Takumi craftsmen, was created with a bespoke driving experience in mind. The superior materials were assembled by the brand’s guardians of the Takumi design ethos, resulting in a meticulous attention for detail synonymous with their work. From the cabin finish with ultra-precise accent stitching, to the comfort addressed in the precise front seat design and its cross-section shape, the NX has been fashioned with a human touch that is considered in every aspect of design and development.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/

The coming year will be the year of “little adventures”. According to the Lexus report The Art of Feeling More, our approach to exploration has changed, with a much stronger focus on hyper-local day-tripping. This, coupled with our desire to be surrounded by nature, means that we’ve found plenty of off-the-beaten-path, secret spots right on our doorsteps, away from crowds but much closer to home than we’d have ever expected.

Award-winning French photographer Floriane de Lassée has discovered how much her local area offers, especially for her creativity: “Being at home over the last 18 months, I discovered the wonders of the surrounding forest. I’ve lived in the same place for 40 years and hardly knew it. The forest is not a direct source of inspiration, but a way that allows the brain to disconnect and find peace, so that deep thinking can take place.

The desire to ‘get away from it all’ looks set to stick around for a long time to come. In a survey conducted by Destination Analysis in 2020, 57% of those asked said they planned on avoiding crowded places other next trip, and 40% said they’d consider camping, renting a motorhome and remote destinations.

Floriane believes that a distinction needs to be made between a break and travel: “People often confuse taking a vacation and travel - I always take my vacation in France! I think taking your vacation locally will be a big trend. The car will become a symbol of freedom for this kind of local or European trip.”

Getting to the best destinations requires the best transport, and the all-new Lexus NX's driver-focused cockpit, built with the Tazuna cockpit philosophy, creates the perfect experience for those looking to escape from the outside world and capitalise on some ever-elusive “me-time”. The Quiet Cabin Experience gives drivers and passengers the ultimate opportunity for calm and relaxation, while the Head-Up Display creates a feeling of companionship and connection with a car that is built with comfort and relaxation in mind.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/

From a world without travel, to travel out of this world: after a year of being confined to our homes, we’re on the lookout for new challenges and experiences as the world begins to reopen. According to the Lexus report The Art of Feeling More, one such adventure is the journey to space – projected to be the next frontier in travel, space tourism is forecast to be worth €2.5bn by 2030 and is set to ignite a new quest for extreme, once-impossible sensations such as true zero gravity.

The ramifications for traditional long-haul flights are huge. By exiting the earth’s atmosphere, rockets would be able to slice flight times for passengers with point to point journeys. A trip to Australia could take about the same time as a drive to the shops.

Back on the ground, space-age technology is also more attainable than ever, especially when it comes to driving. The Lexus NX offers sharper steering with a redesigned steering wheel, and new, ergonomically advanced accelerator and brake pedals for a more comfortable drive. The unique Lexus Driving Signature offers an experience that is entirely obedient to the driver’s intentions – a seamless transition from braking to steering and acceleration through a corner. Advanced aerodynamics and a lower centre of gravity make you the centre of the action, immediately connecting you to the car and providing an exhilarating driving experience.

Add this to the NX’s Lexus Safety System+ and the all-new e-Latch one touch electronic door release system, which set a new benchmark for active safety and driver assistance, and you have a car that utilises the most cutting-edge technology to ensure the protection of those in and around the car. Thanks to its safety system’s camera, radar and control unit, the NX offers a smooth and easy automated parking function, and a memory feature for spaces the driver uses most often. It’s important that the all-new NX, like all technology, must first and foremost remain at the service of humans to ensure a comfortable, effective and safe experience.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/

Driven by a shared dedication to pushing the boundaries of design and creativity, Lexus and American footwear designer Salehe Bembury today announced a collection showcasing apparel from Champion, a leader in authentic sports apparel since 1919.

In celebration of Lexus’ commitment to electrification and mobility innovation, the collaborative brings together two distinct, yet synergistic, design approaches. Bembury approached Lexus’ push towards the electrification of its vehicle line-up through his own signature nature-inspired design ethos.

“This collaboration was a new type of challenge for me. It is both challenging and rewarding to explore design outside of footwear and allowed me to think outside of my usual realm of design,” said Bembury. 

The Lexus x Salehe Bembury collection includes three unisex items: a hoodie, T-shirt and hat. The designs themselves were created by merging recognizable elements of Bembury’s body of work, such as his logo and signature fingerprint, with Lexus graphic elements. As an emblem of a fresh and forward-thinking approach, the collaboration reimagines Lexus’ iconic logo, distilling Lexus’ human-centric design into an apparel collection.

Archway shapes on the front and back were used to tie the design elements together, symbolizing a pathway toward the future. Graphic accents on the back frame the word “electrified” and were based on the all-new Lexus NX’s taillights. 

Lexus and Bembury identified Champion Reverse Weave as the best apparel silhouette for storytelling and took a deliberate approach with details that would amplify the collection’s narrative. For example, incorporation of reflective ink represents the idea of electrification and is used on both the T-shirt and hoodie. The fabric is dyed dark grey through a custom oil wash process, giving it a unique look. Colours are drawn from the Lexus NX exterior options and the incorporation of a hand-finished, wash tag appliqué in both English and Japanese at the front hem ties together all of the brands working on the project. The focal point of the unstructured baseball cap is Salehe’s fingerprint logo wrapping the brim. In addition, embroidered Salehe, Lexus and Champion logos complete the piece, which is adjustable using a strap and metal buckle. 

“This collaboration merges different design disciplines to create a modern collection rooted in heritage for fans across the three brands,” said Jon Ram, Global President Champion Athleticwear. “As a brand that continuously pushes the boundaries of creativity, Champion is excited to work with Bembury and Lexus to elevate the conversation around design, fashion and technology.”

The unisex apparel pieces are available in sizes S-XL and range in price from $50-$150. The collection is available for purchase exclusively at HBX.com as from August 16^th. 

The project is a continued partnership between Lexus and Bembury, who designed a rendering of the LZ-F Electrified concept interior as part of the Virtual Interiors Program in April 2021. 

In a time of such uncertainty and worry over the future, many have found comfort in embracing nostalgia. Finding solace in a romanticised past is an understandable coping mechanism, and has fuelled our reconnection with our history, through cultural revival and simple, analogue living.

If people haven’t been dusting off their N64 for a spot of Super Mario Kart or searching the attic for long-forgotten records, they’ve been ‘comfort viewing’: returning to classic shows, reading their favourite books, and sharing old memories - or journalling to chronicle new ones.

Signs of our return to old favourites are everywhere, according to The Art of Feeling More, a report published by Lexus in collaboration with trend forecasters WGSN. The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) recently reported that 4.8 million vinyl records were sold in the UK in 2020, an almost 10% increase on 2019's figures. Vinyl sales have increased for the 13th year in a row, and are at their highest level since the early nineties, indicating a consistent focus on enjoying slower, luxurious technology in an era of streaming immediacy. On top of this, in April 2020, Hulu viewers watched nearly 11 million hours of 1980s sitcom The Golden Girls, and in April of this year a sealed copy of the 1986 Super Mario Bros. NES game sold at auction for €560,000. It seems that looking back can set you up for the future.

This feeling of nostalgia extends to food, with smell and taste strongly linked to memory and experience. Benedetta Parodi, Italian cooking star and host of Bake Off Italia, puts great importance in the comfort found in food, along with her own memories of her childhood: “I really enjoy sharing time with the people I love, both in the restaurant and at home.

I love to cook for others: for my family, for my friends. The great thing is that they always give me great satisfaction, eating the things I prepare with pleasure. It’s impossible to choose my favourite early food memory, but if I had to name one, it would perhaps be my grandmother’s gnocchi alla bava.”

Nostalgia doesn’t necessarily mean old fashioned. Looking back can inform the future, providing connections while improving standards. It’s certainly true for the all-new Lexus NX where both drivers and passengers experience the almost extinct feeling of having your every need met. Designed with traditional Omotenashi values at its core and built with Lexus’ DNA of supreme quality, comfort and experience, the NX recreates the inimitable hospitality you would expect from a Japanese host paired perfectly with Lexus’ signature ultra-modern tech features. From the 64 colours available in the personalised ambient lighting to driver greetings and mobile phone wireless charging to the state-of-the-art Mark Levinson speakers, the driver experiences a combination of two worlds that complement each other perfectly– the prioritisation of classic customer care values blended expertly with contemporary and customisable technology.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/

The world’s major cities are set to change rapidly to meet the demands of a more sustainable, localised way of living, with many metropolitan centres already getting ahead of the game. Consumers are moving to second-tier and suburban areas in greater numbers, and many communities are launching initiatives encouraging national migration, such as Portugal’s Rural Move and Spain’s COCEDER. According to the Lexus report The Art of Feeling More, while urban living is predicted to increase as a whole, almost half of Europe’s Functional Urban Areas (a city and its commuter belt) will actually lose population, with 10% of cities losing more than a quarter of their population by 2050.

In response to this trend, many cities are prioritising improving the urban experience, creating a series of ‘mini-cities’ that are focussed on a localised approach. Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, is a champion of the 15-minute city, self-sufficient communities with close-by amenities within the French capital that can help reduce travel, stress and pollution. Sweden is going even further, trialling city block designs for the concept of a one-minute city, with walking and cycling given heavy precedence over driving.

There are moments where the hyper local approach might struggle to provide amenities. However, this doesn’t mean that the ethos need take a back seat. The all-new Lexus NX’s driver-focused cockpit, built with the Tazuna cockpit philosophy, creates the perfect place to unwind. The Quiet Cabin Experience gives drivers and passengers the ultimate opportunity for calm and relaxation, while the 14-inch multimedia screen - the largest in the segment - offers the driver a fast, intuitive experience with the smoothness of a tablet, creating a connection with a car that is built with comfort and relaxation in mind.

The NX has also been designed with more than 17 years of electrified leadership behind the wheel. The new PHEV model offers dynamic performance and efficiency, with more than 64km of EV range, ideal for silent, emissions-free travel during city breaks. And the refined, 4th generation hybrid electric vehicle promises more power while providing greater fuel efficiency, reducing consumption and pollution in one go.

The Art of Feeling More report is available online at https://www.lexus.eu/discover-lexus//lexus-news/lexus-stories/the-art-of-feeling-more/#hero.

Learn more about the new NX in https://www.lexus.eu/car-models/all-new-nx/