Lexus has unveiled this week the new Lexus UX 300e, an updated version of the brand’s first battery electric vehicle (BEV), boasting an updated battery pack with range increased by 40%.
Two years after Lexus launched the first UX 300e, the luxury brand of Japanese automaker Toyota unveiled what it is describing as “a significant evolution of the brand’s first production BEV model.”
The new UX 300e will mirror some of the same figures as its predecessor, including maximum output of 150kW and maximum torque of 300.
However, the most notable upgrade is the 40% increase in range, up to 450 kilometres, thanks to a new battery pack, increased from 54.4kWh to 72.8kWh.
Billed as a “urban compact crossover”, the UX 300e will come with DC fast charging as standard using the CHAdeMO system. However, it is unclear if charging power will be increased above the 50kW found on the 2020 model.
Modifications to body and performance
In updating the model – which already benefits from a natural performance advantage thanks to the low centre of gravity created by placing the batteries under the floor – a number of modifications were made to the body and chassis.
New performance dampers increase the performance and, in an effort to strengthen the rigidity of the body, an additional 20 spot welding points were made, while the electric power steering (EPS) and shock absorbers were optimally tuned for the new model.
The Lexus UX 300e also includes expanded functionality of the Lexus Safety System+. Meanwhile, and an improved multimedia system including a 12.3” touch display which is mounted closer to the driver.
“As Lexus’ first BEV model and a core part of the UX family, the UX 300e embraces the continual performance development and evolution of advanced technology applied to the UX 200/250h announced earlier this year, while enhancing the attributes unique to an all-electric vehicle,” said Mitsuteru Emoto, Lexus’ chief engineer.
“Most notably, based on an ‘Always On’ philosophy we significantly extended the cruising range to further enrich the lifestyles of our customers. As a leading light for ‘Lexus Electrified’, the refinement of UX 300e is a key step on the path towards a carbon-neutral society.”
The updated UX 300e will join the new UX 250 hybrid announced earlier this year, with both expected in Australian showrooms next year. Pricing and full specifications will be announced closer to release.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.