Lexus schedules next generation battery electric model for 2026

In 2026, Lexus will introduce a next generation battery electric vehicle (BEV) with a revolutionary modular vehicle body structure, a drastically changed production method and a completely renewed software platform. A first concept model that explores this approach will be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in October as part of Lexus’s commitment to changing the future of automobiles through electrification.

The announcement was made at the Lexus Showcase event which was held in Japan on 15-16 September.

Lexus International President Takashi Watanabe introduced a line-up of new Lexus models designed to meet the diverse needs of customers and regions across the world. He also discussed the future direction of Lexus vehicle manufacturing and the company’s efforts to address the challenge of developing and promoting BEVs to help achieve a carbon-neutral society.

Since its founding in 1989, Lexus has upheld the principle of “Pushing Boundaries,” constantly challenging the conventional notions of luxury cars and consistently delivering new technologies and values to its customers. As a luxury lifestyle brand, it will remain agile and attentive to customer needs and the evolving times.

Diversity

The model line-up displayed at the Lexus Showcase included the all-new LM, a bold new option for chauffeur-driven vehicles. The LBX transcends the conventional size hierarchy and is a car for customers with discerning tastes – specifically targeting the European market with its design. Models marketed outside the UK and Western Europe include the GX, which combines genuine off-road capability with refined on-road luxury, and the TX which caters exclusively to North American customers with spacious three-row seating.

Lexus will launch a customer experience programme in Japan aimed at the future practical application of the ROV Concept (Recreational Off-highway Vehicle), which features a Lexus-first hydrogen-powered engine. In developing the ROV, the goal was to offer a distinctive driving experience not possible with regular passenger cars. 

This was achieved through a compact body size and high off-road capabilities, which allow for an exhilarating driving experience. By using a hydrogen engine, the ROV aims to strike a balance between environmental consideration and the thrill of feeling the heartbeat of an engine. The ROV features components with low environmental impact technologies, thanks to the cooperation of partner companies who share the same vision. Lexus will continue to provide a variety of experiences that help customers enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, based on the idea of “inspiring a deeper love and understanding of nature”. 

Additionally, Lexus will use the opinions collected through customer experience programmes as feedback to further advance future technological developments for practical applications.

Electrification

Lexus will continue its efforts to achieve a carbon-neutral society, centred on BEVs. For about 10 years, Lexus has been working on enhancing the basic performance and characteristics of its vehicles as well as refining the qualities of the Lexus Driving Signature. This driving experience will be carried forward and taken to an even higher level with Lexus’s BEV and electrification technology programme. 

The core technologies include seamless drive force control with the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system and a steer-by-wire system, which provides an intuitive, linear steering feel. Lexus will continue to pursue a natural dialogue between driver and car that evokes the joy of driving. In addition, with the RZ Sports Concept which was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January, Lexus is thinking of new ways to inspire the love of driving and cars, even with BEVs, as it works towards becoming a carbon neutral business.

With the Electrified Sport Concept, Lexus will drive the development of future electrification technologies such as new batteries, aerodynamics, weight reduction, and high rigidity.

Lexus will also take on the challenge of sustainable initiatives that consider the natural environment. Without being bound by conventional values of luxury, it will make use of recycled and man-made materials to create new, high-quality interiors.

ENDS