Lexus Owners Club

The all-new Lexus LM will make its debut at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition in China on 18 April. An online presentation for European media will be released at 05:00 BST on 18 April on the Lexus European media website at https://newsroom.lexus.eu/. This new flagship people carrier has been designed to deliver the ultimate in Lexus omotenashi hospitality and comfort. It will be the first LM model to be introduced into Lexus’s European model line-up.

For Lexus, the “Next Chapter” is not about telling the same story, but delivering important innovations that strengthen the brand and deliver new rewards for customers. That’s particularly the case when it comes to the development of new technologies, systems and features that contribute to stronger performance, more rewarding handling, greater comfort and refinement, higher levels of safety and driver assistance and comprehensive and responsive multimedia functions and connectivity. The complete renewal of Lexus’s mid-size and large luxury SUVs during the past 18 months has seen the all-new NX, RX and all-electric RZ each benefit from these advances. Lexus’s first plug-in hybrid electric models The NX and RX are the first Lexus models in Europe to offer customers the option of a hybrid electric powertrain. Given that Lexus introduced the hybrid concept to the premium car market 18 years ago, it is perhaps no surprise that its plug-in technology comes with particular advantages. The critical benefit that sets it apart from its rivals is that when the battery charge is depleted, the vehicle switches seamlessly to run as a self-charging hybrid. That means emissions and fuel efficiency are greater than in systems where the vehicle simply reverts to running on its internal combustion engine alone. Lexus’s first turbocharged performance hybrid – the RX 500h The RX 500h marks a breakthrough in hybrid electric technology, developed with a focus on giving the RX a stronger performance dimension to extend its appeal to a wider range of customers. It uses a completely new parallel hybrid architecture with a 2.4-lite turbo petrol engine and six-speed automatic transmission (in place of the electric CVT system typically used in most Lexus hybrids). Total system output is 366bhp/273kW with 550Nm of torque, giving 0-62mph acceleration in 6.2 seconds. Direct4 intelligent drive torque control Direct4 is Lexus’s new all-wheel drive force control technology, featured on the new RX and RZ models. This intelligent system automatically adjusts the balance of drive force between the front and rear axles, in line with the road conditions and the driver’s inputs. Achieving the best possible balance contributes both to the driving experience and on-board comfort. The front/rear drive torque can be varied to any degree between zero and 100 per cent, with adjustments made in milliseconds. The results is excellent vehicle balance and pose, improved traction when accelerating on slippery surfaces, better stability when driving through corners and reassuring braking performance. These qualities ensure delivery of the Lexus Driving Signature, giving the driver comfort, confidence and control at all times. Lexus e-Axle The RZ is the first production model to feature Lexus’s new e-Axle, designed for use in battery electric vehicles. This compact, modular package consists of a motor, gearing and a PCU (Power Control Unit), located between the driven wheels. The RZ uses both front and rear e-Axles, which work in conjunction with the Direct4 all-wheel drive control system (details above) to adjust the vehicle’s posture, traction and power distribution, according to the driving conditions. The e-Axles are quiet, efficient and deliver precise power. Their compact dimensions –short front e-Axle and low rear e-Axle – contribute to the car’s packaging, helping gain more room in the cabin and a low load compartment floor, and provide more space to accommodate the EV battery, low down beneath the vehicle floor. One Motion Grip steer-by-wire technology The RZ is set to be the first model to use Lexus’s new One Motion Grip steer-by-wire system, planned for market introduction in 2025. Instead of the conventional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front axle via the steering column, this communicates the driver’s steering inputs to the wheels electronically. The result is instant response and more precise steering control. One Motion Grip uses a new-look steering wheel, with a butterfly shape like the controls found in an aircraft cockpit. This design is appropriate as the technology requires less steering effort from the driver, with no need for hand-over-hand turns. This makes for smooth lane-changing on the motorway, a more comfortable drive on winding roads and easier manoeuvring in tight spaces. Lexus Link multimedia system The all-new NX marked the introduction of the Lexus Link multimedia platform, subsequently introduced in each new Lexus model since. The more powerful package provides much faster response and supports a wider range of functions. These include cloud-based navigation and “Hey Lexus,” an on-board assistant that responds to voice commands. Improved voice command technology allows for more conversational terms to be used; it can also detect whether the driver or front passenger is speaking. The car’s data communications module (DCM) allows multimedia software to be updated over-the-air, so the car doesn’t have to be taken to a service centre for upgrades. The same benefit applies to software used by the Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance systems.

It is with great sadness that Toyota announces the death today of Toyota Motor Corporation Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda at the age of 97 Dr Toyoda, who was the son of the company’s founder Kiichiro Toyoda, began his career with Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) in 1952, having earlier graduated from Nagoya University with a degree in engineering. He later earned an engineering doctorate, writing his thesis on the subject of fuel injection. Dr Toyoda served in many posts during his long career, in which automotive technology, quality control were primary emphases. He became managing director in 1961 and following promotions to senior managing director in 1967 and executive vice president in 1972, he was named president of Toyota’s sales organisation in 1981. Following the merger of the sales and production organisations in 1982 he became president of the newly integrated TMC, serving later as chairman of the board between 1992 and 1999. Dr Toyoda served on the board for 57 years and assumed the position of honorary chairman in 2009 until his death. Dr Toyoda is the father of the current president and CEO, Akio Toyoda, his eldest son. The funeral service will be for close family members only. Toyota Motor Corporation will hold a farewell gathering at a later date.

Driving enjoyment and passenger comfort are both enhanced in the Lexus RZ 450e by the car’s DIRECT4 intelligent all-wheel drive control system. This exclusive Lexus technology, making its debut on the battery electric RZ, which is due for launch later this year. The system automatically manages drive force distribution between the front and rear e-Axles within milliseconds, in response to driving conditions and the driver’s inputs. DIRECT4 continually provides optimal drive force balance between front and rear through independent control of the front and rear e-Axles. Sensors constantly monitor factors such as wheel speed, longitudinal G, and steering angle. DIRECT4 responds to this information, to maximise traction and grip, almost instantly: front/rear torque bias can be adjusted from zero to 100 per cent or 100 per cent to zero and anything in between, in milliseconds, faster than any mechanical system. DIRECT4 adjusts the balance of front/rear drive torque to achieve ideal performance. Details of the distribution in different driving situations are shown in the table below. Driving situation Normal torque distribution (front:rear) Potential torque distribution (front:rear) Aim Starting off 60:40 20:80 Drive torque transferred to the rear to enhance traction and stability. Straight-line driving 70:30 40:60 Torque distributed to optimise straight-line stability and improve efficiency. Turning 75:25 20:80 More torque directed to the rear wheels to achieve better traction in low-grip conditions and confident line-tracing and good acceleration when exiting a bend. Driving in Range mode 0:100 50:50 In Range mode with low torque driving only the rear motor is used to improve operating efficiency The system also automatically adjusts the braking force on all four wheels and improves the energy efficiency of Lexus’s first purpose-designed BEV. RZ Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe took inspiration from the animal kingdom when working to define the poise and agility he sought for the new SUV. Specifically, he was fascinated by how the cheetah – the world’s fastest land animal – moves its body as it sprints and swerves in pursuit of prey, while keeping its head stable and its eye-line fixed. This inspired Lexus’s engineers to think of new ways to control the RZ’s body posture, and with DIRECT4 they were able to give the vehicle exceptional pitch control. The extent to which the vehicle tilts backwards under acceleration and forwards under braking is limited, reducing the corresponding movements of occupants’ heads. This gives the driver a more stable sightline and enhances passenger comfort, especially in the rear seats. DIRECT4 provides excellent traction under acceleration and on slippery surfaces; better stability through corners; and reassuringly secure braking. Automatically variable torque distribution also enhances the precise, linear, natural-feeling responses to driver inputs. All these attributes strengthen the RZ’s core driving characteristics, represented by the “three C’s” that are the cornerstones of the Lexus Driving Signature: Confidence, Control, and Comfort.

All-round excellence has secured the Lexus NX the Premium Car of the Year title in the Company Car and Van Awards The second generation of Lexus’s mid-size SUV was launched in the UK a year ago and has quickly established itself as a strong proposition in one of the most competitive premium car segments. Andrew Walker, Company Car and Van Editor, said: “Now offered in plug-in hybrid guide, the NX ticks the company car box. Climb aboard and Lexus’s famed build quality shines through with this NX a more refined and comfortable car than its predecessor. Lexus has sensibly updated the on-board tech and the model now sits at the top table of premium SUVs.” The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid electric model is of particular value to business motorists with the cost benefits delivered by its highly efficient powertrain. It enjoys a particular advantage over its competitor models in that when the charge in its hybrid battery is depleted, it switches automatically to self-charging hybrid electric running, maintaining strong fuel economy and low emissions. In rival systems, the vehicle defaults to its internal combustion engine until the car can be plugged in for recharging. Lexus’s famous reliability and customer peace of mind are supported by a market-leading manufacturer’s warranty of up to 10 years – available as standard on the NX and all other Lexus models. This comprises an initial three-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty, followed by up to a further seven years of service-activated warranty when the car is serviced at a qualifying Lexus workshop”. * Terms and conditions apply, for details visit www.lexus.co.uk.

Lexus’s technical innovation, attention to detail and wholly human-centred approach to vehicle design are all reflected in the introduction of radiant heaters in the all-new RZ 450e battery electric SUV It is the first Lexus to adopt this new heating method which provides direct warmth to the driver and front seat passenger while working faster and using less energy than a conventional convection heating system. Panels installed beneath the steering column and the left-hand side of the instrument panel use infrared heating to warm the driver and front passenger’s legs directly. Delivering heat only where it is required reduces the load on the air conditioning system and helps preserve the vehicle’s driving range. Compared to a standard climate control system, energy consumption is reduced by around eight per cent. This innovation demonstrates how Lexus designers are mindful of omotenashi, the traditional Japanese spirit of hospitality. In this instance, the front seat occupants experience a comforting sensation, like having a warm blanket wrapped around their legs. Safety is ensured, with the panels automatically reducing the heat to 43 ˚C should anyone come into contact with them. The radiant heaters supplement the vehicle’s climate control functions and are provided in addition to seat and steering wheel heaters. They are integrated into the Lexus Climate Concierge, the multi-zone climate control system which automatically adjusts cabin, seat and steering wheel heating and cooling systems to achieve optimum comfort for everyone on board, at all times. The radiant heating is included in the RZ Premium Plus Pack and RZ Takumi specifications.

Every time you get behind the wheel, the all-new Lexus RX has your safety at heart. It is constantly checking the traffic around you and the road ahead, on the alert for potential accident risks. When it detects a danger, it will warn you and, if need be, adjust speed, steering and braking to help you avoid an accident – or make the consequences less severe if an impact does happen The range and capability of its safety and driver assistance features are greater than ever before, thanks to the latest-generation Lexus Safety System+, a package that comes as standard on every RX model. The quality of these technological advances has helped secure a top five-star rating for the new RX in the independent, rigorous safety testing and assessment programme carried out by Euro NCAP. They combine with the fundamental strength of the car’s construction and its ability to protect driver, passengers and pedestrians should an accident occur. The test scores show overall results of 90 per cent for adult occupant protection; 87 per cent for child occupants; 89 per cent for vulnerable road users; and 91 per cent for the performance of safety assistance features. The car’s Pre-Collision System (PCS) now uses a combination of a radar and camera to gain a wider detection range and recognise more hazard types. For example, when you’re making a left or right at an intersection, it can detect a head-on collision risk with oncoming traffic and crossing pedestrians. Response time has been made quicker and Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) with Active Support has been introduced, which instantaneously provides steering and braking assistance to help keep the car stable and within its traffic lane if you suddenly swerve to avoid an obstacle. The PCS can detect sudden, unintended use of the throttle when moving at low speeds and suppress potentially dangerous acceleration. The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto-braking (RCTA) support safe overtaking and manoeuvring, while Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), part of an extended safety package option, warns of approaching vehicles from either side at junctions with poor sightlines. The Blind Spot Monitor also plays a part in the Safe Exit Assist (SEA) function for the car’s e-Latch door opening system, which prevents doors being opened inadvertently into the path of vehicles coming from the rear. It’s only natural that drivers grow tired on a long journey, affecting their attention and reaction levels. Lexus addresses this issue with features that reduce the burden of driving and also keep track of the driver’s alertness. The Driver Monitor uses a camera mounted above the steering wheel to constantly check the condition of the driver, recognising if they have lost concentration through tiredness or being unwell. In a world-first, the monitor is linked to the car’s active safety systems: if the driver fails to respond to alerts, it will suppress acceleration and bring the vehicle to controlled halt, activating the hazard lights. Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) comes into play when driving at lower speeds around town. It uses the car’s front camera to spot hazards such as pedestrians about to cross or walking along the edge of the road, parked cars and cyclists. On long highway drives, the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) keeps a safe, set distance from the vehicle ahead, slowing the RX down to a standstill if necessary. It can now respond to voice commands, and will automatically adjust vehicle speed when you approach a curve, to ensure smooth, stable progress. The system can also adjust speed to prevent “undertaking” – passing a vehicle on the wrong side on a multi-lane road. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) both help keep your car correctly centred in its lane, while Road Sign Assist (RSA) repeats warning and command signs on major route in the driver’s multi-information display, with a link to the DRCC for easy adjustment when a speed limit changes. Night-time driving is also made safer with automatic headlight adjustment between low and high beam – an Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) or Automatic High Beam (AHB) according to the model specification. While these features provide a comprehensive package – together with automatic parking functions – this is not the end of the story: over-the-air software updates allow for systems to be updated and extended seamlessly, with no need for the car to be taken to a workshop.

Lexus has set a course to develop new technologies and vehicles that maximise the potential of electrification not just to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions, but also to deliver a higher level of performance, dynamics and driver engagement. At its Kenshiki media forum in Brussels the company provided a progress update on Lexus Electrified, its roadmap for electrification and the journey to carbon neutrality. It also highlighted some of the innovative design and engineering that will feature in its new generation models. Pascal Ruch, TME Vice President in charge of Lexus Europe, acknowledged that ultimately battery electric vehicles will take the lead, but that while challenges of infrastructure and electricity supply remain, Lexus will continue to develop a range of electrified technologies for hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and battery electric vehicles to meet diverse customer needs and driving environments around the world. He said: “All future development will be based on the principle of leveraging electrification to reinvent the driving experience. We want our vehicles to be truly enjoyable to drive.” The Lexus technology advantage Lexus was the pioneer of electrification in the luxury car market, introducing the hybrid electric RX 400h SUV in 2005. Since then, it has pushed the technology boundaries to achieve ever-better performance and efficiency, gaining unmatched experience in developing the principal electric vehicle components – including motors, batteries and power control units. At the same time, it has popularised hybrids with a growing range of models, that has amassed more than 2.3 million global sales. Today, more than 90 per cent of the new Lexus vehicles sold in Europe are hybrids. The company is leveraging this experience to ensure its new generation of electrified models deliver the highest levels of quality, performance and safety. To help realise its ambitions, Lexus is developing a new global headquarters at Shimoyama in Japan, a car-centric, agile complex that will be home to all its development disciplines, with designers and engineers working side by side in the drawing rooms and on the test tracks. Lexus Electrified Sport The Electrified Sport represents Lexus’s vision for a future halo sports car with a battery electric drivetrain. It captures the company’s intention to build electrified cars with an authentic performance dimension. Its sweeping lines – establishing a new Lexus BEV identity, inspired by the speed and smoothness of aerobatics – are matched by its power. Acceleration from 0-62mph is expected in around two seconds. Superior battery design The batteries deployed in the latest Lexus hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles provide practical, all-electric EV driving capability, but are kept compact to avoid penalties of weight, cost and intrusion into the cabin and load space. The same principle is applied to battery electric models, with the smart-sized 71.4 kWh battery in the upcoming RZ 450e SUV set to have segment-leading efficiency of 16.8 kWh per 100 km (approx. 3.7 miles per kWh), giving it an EV range of up to 273 miles (WLTP combined cycle). The all-new RX hybrid introduces a new bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery, a technology that reduces resistance, giving higher load and unload capacity. This increases output from each cell by 70 per cent, so more power can be obtained without increasing the battery’s dimensions. Lexus is also researching the next generation of lithium-ion batteries and the potential of solid-state battery technology. The bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery is available on the RX 350h and on the RX 500h, Lexus’s first turbocharged performance hybrid. The quality and safety of Lexus’s new battery units are founded not only on the design and structure of the battery, but also on a monitoring system that detects any abnormal heating, all the way down to individual cell level. The use of non-conductive coolant prevents the risk of fire should a problem occur, while the battery design prevents degraded substances forming on the anode and compromising battery life. Thanks to these measures, Lexus is confidently targeting the new RZ to maintain 90 per cent of its battery capacity after 10 years of use, adding to customer peace of mind. Dynamic rewards with DIRECT4 and One Motion Grip Lexus is introducing new systems that optimise the dynamic potential of electrified powertrains. DIRECT4, featured in the new RX 500h and RZ 450e models, is a Lexus-exclusive technology that instantly balances the drive torque delivered to the front and rear axles, giving optimum traction in all driving conditions, linear acceleration and enhanced cornering and vehicle posture. As well as performance and handling it will also contribute to greater ride comfort, particularly for rear seat passengers. One Motion Grip is a steer-by-wire system that dispenses with mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Set for introduction on the new RZ 450e, it will transform the driving experience, eliminating the need for hand-over-hand turns of the wheel so manoeuvres are made easier and more precise. Low-speed agility and highway stability are also improved. The system makes automatic micro-corrections when driving over uneven surfaces. An EV powertrain with manual transmission For many drivers, the control and engagement provided by a manual transmission is an important part of an enjoyable driving experience. Lexus has investigated how a battery electric vehicle might be equipped with a manual transmission – a project that has progressed to focused development using a research prototype based on the UX 300e compact SUV, equipped with a gear lever and a clutch pedal. Takashi Watanabe, Lexus Electrified Chief Engineer, explained: “From the outside, this vehicle is as quiet as any other BEV. But the driver is able to experience all the sensations of a manual transmission vehicle. It is a software-based system, so it can be programmed to reproduce the driving experience of different vehicle types, letting the driver choose their preferred mapping.” With the DIRECT4 and One Motion Grip systems also being software-based, Lexus will be able to explore new opportunities for performance customisation to provide a personalised experience for each driver.

Lexus’s flagship LS limousine will deliver an even more refined experience in an updated model range for 2023 The principal change is the adoption of the new Lexus Link Pro multimedia system, with additional functions and seamless connectivity. Fitted as standard to all LS versions, it allows everyone on board to interact with the system through a central 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen, by using voice commands, or remotely using their smartphone. The new “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant responds smartly to voice commands to search the internet, make calls and operate the audio or climate control. The system also allows wireless smartphone connection using Apple CarPlay, or a cable connection to access Android Auto. Multimedia software updates can now be delivered over-the-air, so there is no requirement for the LS to be taken to a service centre to gain the latest functions. Using the Lexus Premium Link app gives access to more useful features, such as remote operation of the air conditioning system to warm the cabin or defrost the windscreen prior to a journey, locking and unlocking the doors and activating the hazard lights. The app also provides driving analytics, warning light information and advice on hybrid car driving techniques, as well as a “find my car” search function. A four-year Lexus Premium Link connectivity subscription is provided as standard on all new LS models. Stress-free driving with minimal delays comes courtesy of a package which combines cloud-based, up-to-the-moment traffic, road and parking information from the new Premium Connectivity service and an embedded, “always connected” navigation system. Drivers can manoeuvre the car with confidence using the new under-floor see-through view function on the Panoramic View Monitor. This displays conditions beneath the vehicle and the position of the wheels. The Parking Assist Monitor aids spatial awareness during reversing by showing the vehicle’s centre line. These features are accessed by switches on an updated centre console. The new multimedia system dispenses with the Remote Touch Interface, so switch locations have been changed making them easier to use. The centre console shape has been refined so a smartphone can be stored, without needing to open or close a lid. First deliveries of the new 2023 Lexus LS to UK customers are expected in March.

Lexus has transformed its all-new RX 500h F Sport Performance, inspired by Marvel Studios’ new film, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This unique version of the large luxury SUV has been created in a collaboration between Lexus’s Calty North American design centre, adidas, adidas S.E.E.D. (School for Experiential Education in Design) and 3D printing specialists Carbon, coinciding with the new movie’s worldwide release. The project helps celebrate the recent launch of adidas’s Wakanda Forever collection by bringing its Black Panther designs into the automotive space. Created for the world’s best athletes, adidas’s performance sportswear embodies the question “What If… Wakanda had a national athletics team?”. The RX has been given a full body wrap that builds on the custom identity adidas has envisioned for the fictional African nation. It features a tribal print in the signature Wakandan purple used throughout the adidas sportswear collection. The bonnet is inlaid with a diamond pattern inspired by the Black Panther’s claw necklace. Characters from the fictional Wakandan alphabet are used for the F Sport and Lexus badging, including the word “Vibe-Branium,” featured in the model’s name: the Lexus RX 500h Vibe-Branium AWD DIRECT4. Michael Moore, Lexus International General Manager, commented: “The all-new RX 500h is part of our expanding Lexus Electrified portfolio with evolved, innovative technology that elevates the driver’s experience. There’s an athleticism in the RX’s performance that makes it a perfect fit for joining the Wakanda Forever team.” Students from adidas S.E.E.D. were challenged to reimagine the vehicle’s interior, inspired by the new movie sequel and were guided through the creative process by Calty Design Research, Lexus’s North American design centre, which provided workshops on Lexus design principles, creative processes, colours, materials and the power of collaboration. The custom build features future-focused designs, textures and materials, with adidas’s custom Wakandan tribal gold print featured on the seat upholstery, door panel inserts and purple sections of the steering wheel. The F Sport door sill plate is translated in the Wakandan alphabet and the steering wheel is embroidered with “Wakanda Forever”. Key tactile areas such as the steering wheel pad and front and rear headrests are covered in the Carbon 3D printed energy-returning athletic shoe mid-sole material used in the adidas 4D-FWD. The front headrests include the Lexus logo and the rear centre headrest carries the adidas logo. A laser-cut wood finish around the shift lever and gold trim accents help create a distinctively Wakandan environment. The collaborative project has been recorded in a documentary short film by multi-talented visual storyteller Cami Thomas. Set for release on digital platforms, this feature is another example of Lexus’s mission to inspire and nurture emerging creative talent. Alex Shen, Chief Designer at Calty Design Research, said: “Lexus, adidas and Black Panther may seem like brands that come from totally different worlds, but the thread that draws everything together is the pursuit and leadership in unique story-telling and innovative technology.” Cheresse Thornhill-Goldson, Director, Design Education & Growth | S.E.E.D., adidas, added: “A critical aspect of our curriculum is “open-source” product creation where we partner with experts across various industries to educate and co-create with our S.E.E.D. designers to bring unique products to life. So, collaborating with Lexus, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Carbon, Calty, and Annex to design the Lexus RX 500h Vibe-Branium Direct4 was such a transformative experience for our students. The end result is a powerful example of what can happen when we leverage the collective genius across disciplines.” Carbon, an adidas partner since 2017, has revolutionised athletic footwear by providing the technology platform for the production of adidas 4D midsoles. Carbon DLS™ (Digital Light Synthesis™) technology is pioneered by 3D printing specialists, aligning innovation and sustainability in collaboration with adidas to create a portfolio of athletic footwear that meets specific performance needs. In addition, Carbon’s footprint on the silver screen contributing to costumes, animatronics and other-worldly environments make them the perfect partner to help realise the S.E.E.D students’ vision. To celebrate the project, a limited-edition T-shirt has been designed by adidas S.E.E.D. students, which features an African proverb in Wakandan script, “Educate a Woman, Educate a Nation”, rendered in the traditional Japanese tategaki style. On the back of the shirt, the periodic table is transcribed in Wakandan, illustrating how the country’s vibranium resources helped it build its future-focused society. For more information, visit https://www.lexus.com/WakandaForever

The benefits of electrification are not just about making cars cleaner and more fuel efficient. There are also real opportunities to deliver a more exciting driving experience, as Lexus’s radical new RX 500h F Sport Performance model proves This exclusive member of the all-new RX family of large luxury SUVs is a new kind of hybrid electric model – one with a primary focus on performance. The hybrid powertrain is rich in innovation: a new, high-torque, turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, a six-speed automatic transmission and a separate rear electric eAxle enabling Lexus’s new DIRECT4 precision all-wheel drive control. This advanced powertrain is just one element in the equation. It works in harmony with a fine-tuned dynamic package of chassis, steering, suspension and braking to give the driver a constant sense of connection, control comfort and confidence. These are the key elements in the brand-defining Lexus Driving Signature, delivered to great effect in the RX 500h. Chief Engineer Takaaki Ohno explains: “Our goal with the RX 500h was to create a car that gives an exhilarating driving experience and generates a dialogue with the driver. To achieve this, we have further evolved the Lexus Driving Signature by thoroughly strengthening the vehicle fundamentals, as well as adopting Lexus’s new four-wheel drive force system, DIRECT4. “The RX 500h delivers a powerful, direct, and responsive driving experience through a hybrid electric system with a new high output rear motor. The brakes offer excellent control and rigidity, and the car is equipped with Dynamic Rear Steering with a large steering angle that provides high manoeuvrability and a sense of security at high speeds. This further enhances interaction with the car and delivers a pleasant driving experience. Its addition to the RX range, along with fuel-efficient hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric models, provides a diverse line-up that can meet the needs and preferences of a wider range of customers.” A new direction in hybrid electric technology The new hybrid powertrain architecture is unlike anything Lexus has produced before. The essential self-charging principle is the same, but the front electric motor is positioned between the engine and the new automatic transmission, with a clutch on each side. This design gives strong power delivery while retaining the EV driving capability that’s characteristic of a Lexus full hybrid electric system. It is the most powerful RX yet, with total power output of 366bhp/273kW and 550Nm maximum torque. This translates into 0-62mph acceleration in 6.2 seconds. This is the kind of performance you might expect from a three-litre V6 engine, but with superior fuel economy – the RX 500h achieves 34 to 35.3mpg on the WLTP combined cycle. A new, compact, six-speed automatic transmission has been introduced for the first time. It’s being used in preference to the eCVT system in other Lexus hybrid electric powertrains to better realise the potential of the high torque from the turbo engine and motor. It is engineered to avoid frequent shifts and offers the driver the option of manual operation using paddle controls on the steering wheel. When the driver presses the throttle, response is instant with a powerful, linear increase in speed. The RX 500h is the first Lexus model to use a bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH). This technology reduces resistance so the battery has a higher load and unload capacity. It also allows the unit’s size to be optimised – 1.4 times the number of cells can be accommodated in the same space compared to the standard NiMH battery. These qualities enable twice the power to be achieved from a unit of the same size. The driver enjoys the benefit of stronger acceleration while the battery’s location beneath the car’s rear seat helps the low centre of gravity and avoids loss of cabin or load space. The battery is also quieter, thanks to refinement of its air-cooling system. DIRECT4 all-wheel drive force control The RX 500h is the first RX to adopt Lexus’s new DIRECT4, an intelligent electronic control system that instantaneously and seamlessly adjusts the front and rear drive torque to all four wheels to provide optimum grip and maintain stability. Drive to the rear wheels is provided by the rear eAxle with a separate electric motor and inverter. It makes for a more comfortable ride with better body control and a more rewarding experience for the driver, communicating a more connected feel between the road and the steering wheel. Bespoke dynamic features Like the rest of the new RX range, the RX 500h has the fundamental benefit of the Lexus GA-K platform, giving the car a low centre of gravity, high body rigidity and a balanced chassis with good inertia characteristics. Building on this, the car’s dynamic elements have been tuned and engineered with a performance focus. These include Dynamic Rear Steering which automatically adopts the best steering angle for the rear wheels, according to the car’s speed and direction. At low speeds, the wheels move counter to those at the front for nimble manoeuvring, while at high speeds they turn in line with the front axle, helping keep the car stable. The system gives the rear wheels turning angles of up to four degrees. More powerful brakes are fitted – 400mm ventilated front discs with six-piston aluminium callipers that are opposed rather than floating (as on other new RX models), giving greater rigidity. With an enlarged pad surface area, they give linear, direct and stable stopping performance. They are also a distinctive feature for the model, being painted black and bearing the Lexus logo. Adaptive Variable Suspension is also provided, with fast-response, independent damping control applied at each wheel. Performance styling This is a car that stands out, with styling features added to the new RX’s “Next Chapter” design that express its performance character. These include dedicated split-spoke 21-inch alloy wheels, body colour wheel arch trims and sills, piano black details, aero profile bumpers, F Sport badging and an exclusive mesh pattern for the grille. Inside, the theme continues with the F Sport steering wheel, shift lever and scuff plates and an aluminium pedal set. The sports front seats are finished in leather with tactile Ultrasuede bolsters.

The pleasures of owning a large luxury SUV are well-established: you choose a vehicle that can carry several passengers in great comfort over long distances, with all the space you need for luggage or leisure equipment. The cabin environment is perfectly controlled; the in-car entertainment and connectivity are seamless; and you can trust in the latest generation of safety features Today, there’s another priority to take into account: electrified performance that maximises fuel and emissions efficiency, whether you’re making a trip around town or heading for a distant holiday location. But just as different manufacturers offer different interpretations of “luxury,” there is more than one approach to achieving the best balance of benefits from electrification. Lexus is ideally positioned to come up with the perfect solution: not only did it create the concept of the luxury SUV, it was also the first to bring electrified power to the premium car market, 17 years ago. That impressive leadership has produced the RX 450h+, a plug-in hybrid electric model that’s poised to become the top choice for European customers in the all-new RX range. It provides the efficiency and powerful, responsive performance that are characteristic of a plug-in system, but goes further thanks to the superior qualities of Lexus’s hybrid technology. This technical advantage combines with the rewarding response and handling of the Lexus Driving Signature, high equipment specifications, advanced safety and driver assistance features and its unique takumi craftsmanship luxury. There’s also the benefit of smart packaging, with the RX’s adapted GA-K platform allowing the hybrid battery to be located entirely beneath the vehicle floor. This enhances dynamic performance by contributing to the car’s low centre of gravity and helps secure more space in the cabin and the load compartment. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid gives you the freedom to make long, uninterrupted journeys, together with the benefits of low emissions, strong fuel economy and an extended all-electric driving capability. It’s just the kind of combination of qualities that suits today’s large SUV customers. The performance data show what the car can achieve: 25g/km CO2 emissions, 235.4mpg fuel consumption and EV range up to 42 miles (WLTP combined cycle figures). The powertrain’s output of 304bhp/227kW means performance is brisk, with 0-62mph covered in 6.5 seconds. These figures tell only part of the story. What sets the RX 450h+ apart from its competitors is what happens when the charge in the hybrid battery is depleted. In most other plug-in hybrid vehicles, the car defaults to its petrol engine, which means higher emissions and poorer fuel economy until it can be connected to a power supply for recharging. In the Lexus, the vehicle switches seamlessly to hybrid electric performance, so that the battery is recharged as you drive and a high level of efficiency is maintained. Using the car’s selectable driving modes, you can maximise the benefits of the plug-in hybrid electric system on every journey. EV is the default mode: the car is locked into electric running until the energy in the battery is depleted. That’s regardless of how hard the accelerator pedal is used. Auto EV/HV mode allows the hybrid engine to be brought into play temporarily when the driver wants more power, for example when bursts of acceleration are required, reducing the draw on the battery’s charge. The driver can also opt to use HV model which maintains the battery’s level of charge by starting and stopping the engine when necessary.

Lexus is introducing a package of upgrades for the UX 300e battery electric compact crossover, including an increase of up to more than 40 per cent in the driving range A new battery system should enable distances of up to 280 miles to be covered on a single charge – in principle enough to travel non-stop from London to Sunderland or Edinburgh to Sheffield*. The UX 300e will also gain detailed changes to the body and chassis, the latest Lexus Link multimedia systems, improved Lexus Safety System+ safety and driver assistance functions and a wider choice of upholsteries and trims. The internationally acclaimed British musician Joy Crookes is the face and voice of the launch campaign for the new UX and her hit song Feet Don’t Fail Me Now features as the soundtrack for the new pan-European television commercial. Lexus expects customer deliveries of the new UX 300e to commence during the second half of 2023. Pricing and specification details will be announced nearer the model’s on-sale date. New, more powerful battery Lexus is significantly extending the UX 300e’s driving range by increasing the lithium-ion battery’s capacity from 54.3 to 72.8kWh. Maximum power remains 201bhp/159kW with 300Nm maximum torque. Models running on 17-inch wheels are expected to achieve a range of up to 280 miles* (450km, WLTP combined cycle), while those with 18-inch wheels should be able to cover up to 273 miles* (440km). In both cases, the distance may be affected by options specified for the vehicle. Detailed changes to enhance the driving experience include fine-tuning of the steering and shock absorber settings to sharpen dynamic performance, while additional spot-welding increases body rigidity. These alterations improve the car’s responsiveness and planted feel, characteristics accentuated by the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and the location of the battery pack beneath the floor. Changes are also being made to the sound insulation to achieve an even quieter cabin. New and improved multimedia systems The UX 300e will follow the UX 250h in adopting the new Lexus Link multimedia systems, giving faster response, more intuitive, human-centred operation and increased functionality. According to equipment grade, models are fitted with either eight-inch (Lexus Link connect) or 12.3-inch (Lexus Link Pro) displays, with touchscreen technology replacing the previous trackpad control. The new displays sit further forward on the instrument panel, bringing them closer to the driver for comfortable operation. They present crisper graphics – in high definition on the 12.3-inch screen. Significantly increased computing power means command responses are quicker, while “always connected” cloud-based navigation is provided as standard, giving access to real time road and traffic information for easier journey planning. The Lexus Link Pro system has embedded navigation, so operation is available in areas where cloud connection is not available. The system’s new voice recognition system includes the option of using the “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant. This makes for easier use of voice commands to make phone calls, operate the audio and climate control and search the net. It can link to cloud-based information, so, for example, it can be asked about nearby fuel prices and other local information. It is programmed to understand more conversational terms and is better able to recognise commands when there is background noise – the audio doesn’t have be muted and the microphones can recognise whether it is the driver or front passenger speaking. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay (wireless connection) or Android Auto (wired connection) is provided as standard and, for complete convenience, updates to the multimedia system software can be delivered over-the-air using the car’s DCM (data communication module). Connectivity options include a USB-A port in the centre console box for playback of high-resolution sound sources and two USB-C ports for device charging on the console. The multimedia system can save the personal preference profiles of up to three people, customising the multimedia, audio and navigation settings. A redesign of the centre console uses the space where the multimedia trackpad was located for the controls for the heated front seats or, where these are not specified, a handy small storage cubby. The console also gains an illuminated tray in front of the air conditioning control panel, with space to hold a large smartphone. True to Lexus’s famous omotenashi hospitality, owners will be able to use the Lexus Link smartphone app to lock or unlock the doors or operate the air conditioning system remotely, so that the cabin can be cooled or warmed before they set off on a journey. Interior and exterior changes The UX 300e will be available with new exterior paintwork option, Sonic Platinum. This special finish uses Lexus’s advanced sonic paint technology in which a layer just a few microns thick brings the metallic flakes in the paint into closer, uniform alignment, creating an extra brilliance and deeper shading across the car’s bodywork. In the cabin, there is a new Hazel colour option available for both the fabric and leather upholstery options. The perforated leather upholstery has a fresh look with a new kagome stitchwork pattern, inspired by a traditional Japanese basket weave. Japanese heritage is also expressed in the Washi dashboard surface texture, influenced by the paper-grain panels found in the sliding screen doors in traditional homes. Lexus Safety System+ Revisions to the Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adopts Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of a bend in the road. UX 300e provisional specifications *The vehicle’s maximum driving range at any given time may be affected by a number of external factors, including driving style, road and weather conditions, external temperature and the fitment of options and/or accessories.

Exactly which Toyota and Lexus models are still produced in Japan? Trying to figure this out is like a puzzle, since the production sites are constantly changing and information is difficult to obtain. Automotive Engineer David Chao - who has been to almost every Toyota and Lexus factories in Japan - has deciphered this complex information and explains which models of Toyota and Lexus brands are still produced in Japan. David goes over every Toyota/Lexus factory one by one, explaining what is being produced there and which ones actually come to North America. This is the most significant video David has produced, after taking many weeks to gather all of the correct information. Video footage of such models as the Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX, and FJ Cruiser are included in this fascinating video.

In Marvel Studios’ Black Panther films, members of the nation of Wakanda’s elite Dora Milaje warriors must possess extraordinary qualities, a principle that also applies to their mode of transportation. Enter the all-new, all-electric RZ 450e, Lexus’s technologically advanced BEV that brings an electrifying attitude to the warriors’ arsenal Lexus will once again join forces with the Marvel Studios’ Black Panther franchise this autumn, as the official automotive partner of the highly anticipated film Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Ahead of the film’s global release from 9 November, the RZ 450e, driven by Dora Milaje warriors, will star in a heart-pumping series of 60, 30 and 15-second ad spots called An Electric Future. Directed by Anthony Leonardi III, the visually thrilling ad finds General Okoye (played by Danai Gurira) in the RZ 450e as she prepares to fulfil her national duty in the unfamiliar role of public speaker. General Okoye is joined by her fellow Dora Milaje as they embark on what becomes a car chase experience filled with spectacular stunts, explosions, and pin-point accurate ‘vibranium spear’ throws. The RZ 450e enables the Dora Milaje to dodge their pursuers with its precise One Motion Grip steering, balanced handling thanks to DIRECT4 all-wheel drive and a seamless on-demand application of power via front and rear e-Axle motors. The RZ’s BEV-specific seating layout and versatile digital rear-view mirror provide optimal all-round visibility for General Okoye’s driver and front passenger. “The power, elegance, and future-forward vision of the Lexus brand aligns perfectly with the Black Panther franchise. We couldn’t be happier to team up with Lexus once again to bring an action-packed story and supporting 360-degree campaign to life,” said Mindy Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Global Partnership Marketing at The Walt Disney Company. Michael Moore, Lexus International’s General Manager for Strategic Communication said: “We’re excited and honoured to continue our collaboration with the Marvel Studios’ Black Panther franchise. Our all-electric RZ 450e is a perfect fit in the Dora Milaje’s cutting-edge arsenal, bringing an elevated driving experience that intuitively connects with its users through advanced technology and compelling performance.” About Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: Wakanda Forever In Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett), Shuri (Letitia Wright), M’Baku (Winston Duke), Okoye (Danai Gurira) and the Dora Milaje (including Florence Kasumba), fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers in the wake of King T’Challa’s death. As the Wakandans strive to embrace their next chapter, the heroes must band together with the help of War Dog Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) and forge a new path for the kingdom of Wakanda. Introducing Tenoch Huerta as Namor, king of a hidden undersea nation, the film also stars Dominique Thorne, Michaela Coel, Mabel Cadena and Alex Livinalli. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, directed by Ryan Coogler and produced by Kevin Feige and Nate Moore, opens in Europe from 9 November 2022.

The Lexus NX has been awarded Best Premium Medium SUV and the future Lexus RZ as One to Watch at the Business Car Awards that took place in London last night, (Thursday 22 September) Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car magazine, said “The all-new NX impresses with its extra practicality and performance, plus there’s the NX 450h’s EV range and low 8 per cent BIK figure. On top of the added space, the NX’s new Global Architecture means it’s a tidy and refined choice that’s worthy of picking over German rivals in this class.” The second generation NX has represented a significant shift for the Lexus brand, taking new directions in design, powertrains and dynamic performance. The NX 450h+ is the halo model equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain which can cover up to 46 miles on electric power. The electric system also stands out from the competition by maintaining use of its hybrid system when battery charge is depleted; unlike rival models which default to their combustion engine. Turning to the Lexus RZ 450e, the brand’s first bespoke fully electric SUV winning the One to Watch Category, Collins added, “The RZ is the first all-electric Lexus developed from the ground up and, when it goes on sale next year, it is sure to shake up established premium brand rivals with 309hp, a range of more than 250 miles and fully fly-by-wire steering.” The RZ 450e is an all-new battery electric SUV, due to be on sale in the UK in 2023 constructed on a dedicated BEV platform. It is the first Lexus electric vehicle to be developed from the ground up and introduces advanced technologies that enhance its handling and performance. It uses Lexus e-Axles with an innovative DIRECT4 all-wheel drive torque control system, as well as a full suite of safety and driver assistance features, including Lexus’s Safe Exit Assist which prevents a door being opened into the path of vehicles and cyclists approaching from the rear. Neil Broad, General Manager, One Toyota Fleet Services, said, “The second generation NX continues to impress all round, representing a new chapter in Lexus design, electrified powertrains and advanced technologies including the brand’s first plug-in hybrid electric model, the NX 450h+.” On the RZ model, he added, “It is a real honour to accept this award in anticipation of a model not yet on sale. It absolutely highlights the exciting potential of the new technologies and enhanced performance the RZ 450e will bring to market.” For more information about the Lexus NX range and RZ 450e, visit the Lexus website www.lexus.co.uk