With the UX 300e, Lexus has just got its first electric car on the road. The technical basis is currently being laid for the next model.
Electric and from a single source: With the LF-Z Concept study, Lexus gives an outlook on the time from 2025. The almost 4,90 meter long crossover is on the Group's new E-TGNA platform and has a 294 kW / 400 HP electric motor in the rear. Power is supplied by a 90 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which is good for a range of up to 600 kilometers.
In general, the new architecture enables front-wheel, rear-wheel and all-wheel drive. Lexus calls the latter “Direct 4”; it should enable the free distribution of the drive forces among all wheels and thus also enable particularly dynamic vehicles. The steering takes place via electronic signals, a fixed mechanical connection is no longer provided with this "by-wire" technology.
The design of the study should reflect the new drive: the front is closed and no longer has a classic radiator grille, the front hood is flat, and the passenger cabin is particularly voluminous. There are also large wheels, which are also typical for electric cars.
According to Lexus, the study does not give any outlook on a specific vehicle, but many of its elements should go into series production in the middle of the decade. Lexus plans 2025 new or revised models by 20, including more than ten electrified vehicles. In addition to models with a pure battery drive, this also includes plug-in hybrids and classic full hybrids. Lexus also does not want to rule out fuel cell vehicles such as those offered by its sister brand Toyota.