Summary
- Lexus is delaying the production of its next-generation electric flagship to 2027 for further development work
- The Lexus LF-ZL concept is based on a dedicated EV platform with a structure comprised of three large "gigacastings"
- The concept includes prismatic battery cells for thinner battery packs and more design flexibility
- Lexus plans to transform into a battery EV brand by 2035 and the future EV lineup includes the LF-ZC concept
- Toyota plans to ramp up EV production to at least one million units by 2026, nearly tenfold increase from 2023 levels
Article
Lexus is delaying the production of its next-generation electric flagship, the LF-ZL, which was originally supposed to launch in 2026 but will now arrive in 2027. The decision was made to allow more time for development work on the model. The LF-ZL concept was unveiled at the 2023 Tokyo auto show and was described as an SUV measuring 208.6 inches long, making it longer than other Lexus models. The concept was based on a dedicated EV platform with a structure comprised of large “gigacastings” following an engineering method advocated by Tesla.
The LF-ZL concept also featured prismatic battery cells that would allow for thinner battery packs and more design flexibility. Lexus had previously stated that this technology would be used in future production EVs. Parent company Toyota has announced plans to transform Lexus into a battery EV brand by 2035, with the future EV lineup expected to include a production version of the LF-ZC concept. These new electric vehicles represent a significant step forward from the current Lexus RZ and the electric version of the UX crossover sold in other markets.
Despite delays in production, Toyota has made progress in preparing for their electric transformation. In 2022, the brand’s engineering boss confirmed that an 800-volt electrical system for future EVs was ready. Earlier reports also indicated that Toyota was building a new battery plant in Japan specifically for Lexus vehicles. While Toyota has delayed the production of a new three-row electric SUV in Kentucky, the company has plans to ramp up EV production globally to at least one million units by 2026, which is a significant increase from 2023 levels.
Overall, Lexus appears to be on track to enter the electric vehicle market with the delayed launch of the LF-ZL and other future electric models. The decision to delay production was made to ensure that the model meets the high standards set by the luxury brand. With parent company Toyota’s commitment to transforming Lexus into a battery EV brand by 2035, the future lineup of electric vehicles is expected to offer customers more options and represent a significant step forward in the brand’s electrification efforts. Toyota’s plans to increase EV production globally show a strong commitment to sustainability and advancing towards a greener future in the automotive industry.
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