Lexus has shown its commitment to a sustainable future for decades, and the beloved automaker has never been more ambitiously pursuing the goal of eco-conscious luxury than it is today. Lexus recently made a promise to move toward an all-electric lineup. If you’re curious about Lexus’s plans for EVs and hybrids in the future, read on to learn more about the commitment.
Types of Electric Vehicles
Before we can discuss Lexus’s plans for going entirely electric, it’s important to break down the distinctions between the various types of partially and fully electric models. There are a few different ways automakers power non-gas vehicles, and Lexus has three primary types of electrified vehicles. These three types are:
- Battery electric vehicles (BEVs): These cars source 100% of their energy from long-range battery packs. With BEVs, gas is never necessary
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs): HEVs have both electric batteries and gas-powered engines that alternate in propelling the car forward. You never charge your electric battery with an HEV
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: (PHEVs): PHEVs differ from HEVs in that they have a larger battery pack that delivers more range, and you can charge these batteries manually in advance. This means that with a fully charged battery, you can drive all-electric for longer before engaging the gas engine whatsoever
When Is Lexus Going All Electric?
Lexus plans to go fully electric in North America by 2030 and fully electric globally by 2035. That doesn’t just mean no traditional fuel-burning vehicles. It means no hybrids, either. Lexus’s commitment states that it will sell only BEVs by 2030 and 2035, respectively.
Lexus has long held a commitment to researching and developing electric vehicle technology on the edge of innovation. Back in 2005, Lexus released the world’s first hybrid luxury vehicle, the RX 400h. This model changed the luxury market, and since, Lexus has been the auto industry’s leader in the development of new EV technology without sacrificing the elegance and comfort that’s become synonymous with luxury vehicles.
Lexus also set a goal to sell 1 million BEVs by 2035. There’s currently one BEV in the 2023 lineup, the brand-new RZ, a small electric crossover. There are, however, seven hybrid and plug-in hybrid models available that are helping transition Lexus from the gas engine to the full battery-powered engine. Lexus also unveiled some of its plans for expanding its BEV offerings in the coming years.
The following vehicles are in development:
- An electric sports coupe: Temporarily dubbed “The Electrified Sport,” Lexus will uphold its history of high-performance sports cars with jaw-dropping god looks with a battery-powered sports coupe. This punchy powerhouse will likely feature rapid acceleration, and athletic handling, and it’s possible that a convertible version could be available in the future
- An electric SUV: For growing families and drivers who like having a commanding presence on the road, Lexus is working on a bigger option than the current crossover. The brand has yet to confirm many details about the electric SUV, but industry experts expect it to be a large crossover or a relatively small two-row SUV
- An electric sedan: Lexus released its basic vision for an electric sedan that captures the charm and style of its standard sedans. While prospective designs could be subject t change, the sedan EV features a unique taillight design and a bold body
Benefits of Driving an Electric Vehicle
Opting for an EV presents drivers with a host of worthwhile benefits, such as:
- Cuts spending on gas: Perhaps the most obvious benefit of owning an EV is that you can minimize your gas bill with an HEV or PHEV or eliminate it entirely with an EV. Not only does lowering your gas usage save you money, but it also saves you the time and hassle associated with stopping for gas on your way to your destination
- Requires less maintenance: Thanks to innovative technology and minimal engine design, the maintenance costs of EVs are typically substantially lower than that of traditional gas-power vehicles. The batteries last longer than most traditional car batteries, and they never require oil changes, which is one of the most frequent services required for standard engines
- Lowers your carbon footprint: Many people are becoming more and more eco-conscious, looking for ways to control their individual environmental impact. Swapping your gas-powered car for an EV is one great way to do your part in going green, as these vehicles don’t release the same carbon dioxide emissions as other cars do
- Saves you tax money: Many EV owners can qualify for up to a $7,500 tax break. Hybrid owners are often eligible for a reduced cut, while BEV drivers with qualifying vehicles according to IRS guidelines may be able to deduct the full amount from their taxes
The Brand-New Lexus RZ
The RZ is new in 2023, and it’s Lexus’s first-ever all-electric model. This sharply designed crossover features a chiseled frame, sleek but powerful headlights, suede seating, and futuristic cabin tech to stay connected on the go. The 71.4-kilowatt battery grants the crossover 312 horsepower, and it reaches 60 mph in just 5 seconds. It comes with all-wheel-drive capabilities, and it can reach up to 220 miles of range. With 20-inch wheels, the range is 196 miles.
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Lexus Models
Here are the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models available in the current Lexus lineup:
- UXh: hybrid luxury crossover SUV
- NXh: hybrid luxury SUV
- NXh+: only plug-in hybrid available
- RXh: largest luxury SUV, also available as the ultra-powerful RX 500h
- ESh: hybrid luxury sedan based on the crowd-favorite ES
- LSh: hybrid luxury sedan based on the Lexus classic LS
- LCh: hybrid luxury coupe
Where Can I Buy a Luxury EV or Hybrid in San Jose?
Fortunately, if you’re in the market for an eco-friendly vehicle with all the refinement and quality you trust from Lexus, Lexus of Stevens Creek is eager to help. We have an ever-changing inventory of new Lexus vehicles. Our team can also reserve a vehicle for you, so you can be one of the first to drive a brand-new upcoming Lexus model, like the all-electric RZ that’s new for 2023.
With almost two decades of EV innovation under its belt, Lexus is committing to an all-electric future. If you want to be a part of it, partner with a trusted Lexus dealership. Lexus of Stevens Creek is San Jose’s destination for luxury electric and hybrid vehicles. Visit our conveniently located dealership today to learn how an EV can help power your busy lifestyle.
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