Lexus Promises Radical Design and Performance Shake-Up Starting in 2026

Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, has some exciting plans in store for the second half of this decade. The brand’s new global chief, Takashi Watanabe, recently revealed that Lexus will be introducing a new generation of vehicles that will push the boundaries of design, luxury, and performance. With a focus on electric power, Lexus aims to shift 1 million EVs annually by 2030.

The Future of Lexus

According to Watanabe, the real action for Lexus begins around 2026 when the first of the new generation of vehicles will make their way to showrooms. These vehicles will feature a re-innovated vehicle modular structure, revamped production methods, and a completely re-imagined software platform. The design of future cars will be prioritized to embody the essence of Lexus.

To give us a glimpse of what’s to come, Lexus will unveil a new EV concept at the Japan Mobility Show next month. This concept will showcase the brand’s new design language and is expected to feature the same battery technology that parent company Toyota has promised, which could provide an electric driving range of almost 1,000 miles (1,600 km).

Learning from Tesla

While Lexus aims to set itself apart from other premium brands, Watanabe acknowledges the achievements of Tesla and plans to learn from them. He stated that Lexus needs to make it easier to build and simplify its production methods. By humbly looking at and learning from Tesla’s accomplishments, Lexus hopes to incorporate successful strategies into its own operations.

Innovative Technologies

Lexus is not only focused on design and luxury but also on performance. The brand is exploring innovative technologies that will enhance the driving experience. One such technology is Toyota’s giga casting, a technique that allows for the production of complex and lightweight parts. This technology is expected to be applied to Lexus production, improving the overall performance and efficiency of their vehicles.

Additionally, Lexus has patented a simulated manual transmission for EVs. This technology could potentially be featured in a flagship electric sports car, generating excitement among enthusiasts and engineers alike. This development is reminiscent of the V10 LFA, a legendary Lexus sports car that captivated automotive enthusiasts.

The Road to Electric Power

Lexus has set a goal to transition to electric power entirely by 2035. With the introduction of the new generation of vehicles in 2026, the brand aims to accelerate its progress towards this goal. By focusing on electric drivetrains, Lexus intends to offer customers a combination of luxury, performance, and sustainability.

Conclusion

Lexus is embarking on an exciting journey towards a future filled with groundbreaking designs, luxurious features, and high-performance electric vehicles. With a commitment to innovation and a willingness to learn from industry leaders like Tesla, Lexus is poised to make a significant impact in the automotive market. As we eagerly await the unveiling of the new EV concept next month, it’s clear that Lexus is determined to redefine what it means to drive a luxury vehicle.