Toyota Motor Corporation’s (TMC) luxury brand teased seven new models on December 14 that were not high-riding SUVs or crossovers. One of these is an upcoming EV that may be the next-gen Lexus LS.
On the Lexus IS EV & Lexus ES EV
On December 14, TMC revealed three new Lexus electric sedans, which could evolve into a Lexus IS electric (or a similar electric sports sedan), a Lexus ES electric (or a similar executive sedan), and a Lexus LS electric (or an equivalent electric full-size sedan). The global auto media is of the opinion that the concept in the featured image (top) previews the zero-emissions full-size sedan. The coupe-style model below is probably the concept version of the electric sports sedan, while the image below it could represent the concept version of the electric executive sedan. These would compete with upcoming EVs like the BMW 3 Series EV, Mercedes C-Class EV, BMW i5 and the Audi A6 e-tron (Audi E6).
The first concept (top), called Lexus Electrified Sedan, could evolve into a Tesla Model 3 rival. The second concept (bottom), which is unnamed, could shape into Lexus’ Tesla Model S challenger. Images: Noriaki Mitsuhashi/N-RAK PHOTO AGENCY and Toyota Motor Corporation
The silver car seen in the featured image is devoid of a radiator grille, and it has only a small lower intake. These are the other indications that it’s an electric vehicle. Yet, we see that the attempts of the designers to replicate the most widely known Lexus signature design cue, which is the spindle grille. L-shaped daytime running lights adjacent to this smooth closed-off panel award the car a stronger brand identity and a bold character.
On the sides, the sculpted door panels accentuate an image of air flowing back smoothly. Along with the sleek greenhouse and the sharp kick in the beltline towards the end, they give the car a sporty styling. There’s also a hint of extra-aerodynamic wheels typically seen on EVs, featuring a two-tone finish.
Release Date
TMC has not revealed the release date or details of the next-gen Lexus LS or a full-size electric sedan yet. The next-gen LS will most likely come with either an electric variant or similar-sized electric sedan, but the name is still in question, sometime during mid-decade. The Lexus LX SUV could be the last Lexus model to adopt complete electrification. TMC plans to offer the entire Lexus range in EV by 2030. It aims to convert 100% of sales in Europe, North America, and China to EVs by 2030 and then in all other markets by 2035.
Featured Image Source: Toyota Motor Corporation
Keyword: All-electric Lexus LS sedan could arrive before an LX EV