First-ever all-electric Lexus breaks cover at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China, boasting a 201bhp motor and a claimed range of 250 miles
Lexus has revealed an all-electric version of the UX SUV badged 300e at the Guangzhou Motor Show in China. It’s the Japanese brand’s first EV, which has been designed as an upmarket alternative for the Kia e-Niro, Hyundai Kona Electric and MG ZS EV. The UX 300e will go on sale in China next year, before reaching the UK market in 2021.
The UX 300e is powered by a 54.3kWh lithium-ion battery, which feeds a front-axle electric motor. The drivetrain develops 201bhp and 300Nm of torque – and offers support for 50kW fast-charging. Lexus also claims that its new electric SUV will cover 250 miles between charges, although that figure is according to the outmoded NEDC test regime. A WLTP figure has not been revealed, but around 200 miles under the newer, tougher procedure seems likely.
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It’s based on an adapted version of Toyota’s TNGA GA-C platform, which is also found under the petrol hybrid UX and recently revised Toyota C-HR. Lexus has fitted a range of additional chassis bracing and a redesigned suspension system to support the extra weight of the electric powertrain.
Inside, the all-electric UX 300e is the same as the hybrid model, with the exception of a new automatic gear selector and some EV-specific displays for the SUV’s digital instrument binnacle and infotainment system.
However, behind the identical interior trim, Lexus has fitted additional sound dampening to help suppress external intrusions, such as wind noise, gravel impacts and tyre roar, which it says would be more noticeable with the absence of an internal combustion engine.
Exterior styling revisions are equally minimal, stretching to a subtly reworked radiator grille, new badges highlighting the electric powertrain and a more aerodynamic front bumper with smaller air intakes. Lexus has also fitted the UX 300e with an active sound generator, which produces an ambient noise at low speeds to warn pedestrians of the car’s presence.
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