Lexus Teases EV Concept
Lexus published a teaser image in its home market in September of what may be its next EV. The image is a direct front angle of the vehicle. It shows Lexus family “checkmark” LED daytime running lights, a wide stance, and thin camera stems in place of outside mirrors on either side. Presently, Lexus of Las Vegas doesn’t have any additional details. However, we are excited to see the path forward that Lexus is showing the world.
Putting the Puzzle Pieces Together
There is speculation that it may be the front end of a profile teaser image that Lexus debuted last April. The profile was of a sleek 4-door sedan with a fastback roofline and abruptly curtailed front end with the same side camera stems. A close look at the front image shows hints of the Lexus spindle grille and large side intakes that could be consistent with the profile image’s short front. It is difficult to determine accurately, but the car could be mid-sized like the ES model line. Interestingly, this car does not resemble any of the several proposed EV models the company displayed in late 2021.
The concept car is scheduled to debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, which takes place in late October and early November. It may well be the first EV using a new-generation battery-powered car parent company Toyota has discussed that will debut in 2026.
Possibly Carrying New Breakthrough Battery Technology
Currently, Lexus has one EV, the RZ crossover for sale in the US. In Europe, the brand also sells the UX 300e subcompact EV, which, as the name implies, is an EV variation of the UX model sold here. Presumably, the new model in the teaser images will have little connection with either of these models. It will be built on an entirely new platform and use the next-generation lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology. This new battery is thought to provide a driving range of 427 miles while costing 20% less than the battery pack in the RZ. The other advantage of this battery is that it would be able to fast charge from 10 to 80% state of charge in about 20 minutes.
A lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO) battery is being developed that would have a smaller but impressive range of 327 miles and cost 40% less to produce than the RZ battery. This battery would fast-charge from 10 to 80% in about 30 minutes.
New Production Technologies May Be At Work
There may be new production technologies involved with this car that are outside the battery. Parent Toyota has discussed giga casting technology, which consists of large, single-piece castings for major structural components. The advantages are reduced weight, greater structural integrity, and a more efficient manufacturing process.
When this car is revealed at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, Lexus of Las Vegas will share with you more about what Lexus has planned for the near future.