Lexus teases new EV, confirms 2021 launch

Japanese luxury brand Lexus has again teased its forthcoming electrified SUV concept.

It has also confirmed the first production EV model based upon it will launch in 2021.

And Lexus Australia is already signalling its interest.

Due for release in our Autumn, a darkened rear-end image of the concept follows up a darkened image of the nose released in December.

Little info about the vehicle was released to go with the image, but Lexus is making it clear the concept represents a new design language for the brand.

A previous hint about where Lexus is headed in design terms was provided by the 2019 LF-30 concept.

“This year, Lexus will take a new step forward in aiming to make the diversified lifestyles of our customers more rewarding,” Lexus International president and chief branding officer Koji Sato said in a statement issued with the image.

“This Spring, we will unveil our new brand vision, along with a new concept, which illustrates our intentions for the future and marking the beginning of the next generation of Lexus.

“Furthermore, we will launch the first model under our new vision within this year, and we will continue to introduce new models next year and beyond.

“From here on as well, by being considerate of our customers around the world and engaging in car-making that exceeds their expectations, we will continue to take up the challenge of delivering happiness to all people who come into contact with Lexus.

“I look forward to sharing more with you soon.”

At the moment, Lexus has only one battery electric vehicle, the UX 300e, which will go on-sale in Australia in November 2021.

But that is an adaptation of an existing ICE vehicle, rather than being all-new.

The concept be badged RZ450e, as that name has been trademarked by Lexus.

Whatever does turn up as a concept and then in production is expected to feature the new-generation Direct4 electric system developed by Lexus separately to parent Toyota.

However, it will be based on Toyotas’s brand new e-TNGA BEV architecture, which will spawn the BZ (Beyond Zero) model range from the world’s number one car maker (in terms of sales in 2020).

The rear-end shot of the concept shows off illuminated Lexus lettering rather than a logo, a lip spoiler and slim-line LED tail-lights. A ligth bar is possible. The roofline also appears to adopt a double-bubble look and the rear window appears at least partially divided by a shark fin antenna.

In Australia, Lexus boss Scott Thompson has hinted at the brand’s electrified future in celebrating the milestone of selling the brand’s 30,000th hybrid.

“Through our ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, we are adopting a portfolio approach that will meet the specific needs of individual luxury buyers as we move to a sustainable future,” Mr Thompson said.

“In November, we will advance our leadership in electrification in Australia by launching our first all-electric vehicle, the luxury compact UX 300e.

“We will continue to broaden our response by developing more self-charging hybrid vehicles as well as plug-in hybrid, battery-electric (BEV) and fuel-cell electric vehicle technologies.

“In tandem with these technologies, we will create a new era of luxury mobility with our industry-leading Encore owner benefits program and by harnessing the potential of electrification to create a new level of driving excitement that is unique to Lexus.

“Globally, we anticipate electrified versions of all Lexus models will be available by 2025 and that, even earlier, we will see the first Lexus plug-in hybrid and a new dedicated BEV platform.

“These are vehicles we will strongly consider for the Australian market as a natural portfolio expansion of our Lexus Electrified vision.”