Image: Lexus
Image: Lexus
Lexus has taken their first ever BEV; the UX 300e, and fettled it with some improvements for a mid-cycle refresh. More importantly, the Japanese automaker is considering bringing the silent, luxury model to Mzansi!
Image: Lexus
It doesn’t look anything out of the ordinary. Why would it? It shares many stylistic similarities with the piston-powered UX 200 and 250h which are on sale in our local market. The Japanese automaker, which has been instrumental with hybridisation, has put their first ever Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) through a mid-cycle refresh and increased range by 40%, improved vehicle dynamics and expanded the active safety functions and equipment.
Originally launched in 2020, the UX 300e signalled the first true battery-powered vehicle from the firm which has long dabbled with hybrid technology. As of August 2022, 2,3 million electrified vehicles have been sold by Lexus which alludes to their strong popularity with affluent customers, typical to the high-end automaker. This all aligns with the premium brand’s electrification vision of 2019: “Lexus Electrified.”
The compact crossover UX 300e has most notably had an updated battery pack increase driving range by 40% which now lies at 450 km. The original 54,4 kWh unit was replaced by a 72,8 kWh pack in its place which doesn’t compromise on the predecessors driving dynamics.
Image: Lexus
When it comes to advanced technology, the functionality of the “Lexus Safety System +” active safety technology was expanded with the aim of providing a safer and more secure driving experience. For entertainment, the latest multimedia system brings a larger, higher resolution touch panel display, the form and switch layout of the instrument panel and console area have been optimised, and two new Type-C USB connectors have been added to the front of the console for improved usability when charging devices.
Lexus UX 300e Fast Facts
Power: 150 kW
Torque: 300 N.m
Cruising Range: 450 km
Energy Consumption: 166.7 Wh/km
Battery Capacity: 72.8 kWh
Fast Charging Standard: CHAdeMO
Keyword: Lexus first ever BEV gets an update – this is the new Lexus UX 300e