Lexus UX Electric SUV India Launch Plans Shelved

Lexus India has announced big ambitions for the Indian luxury car segment with its upcoming electric vehicle range. The brand also shared that it has abandoned plans to launch the UX electric SUV in the country and directly move on to the next generation of electric vehicles that will aim to out-tech its German rivals.

Lexus UX Launch Cancelled

Lexus cars smallest SUV on sale currently, the UX all-electric was first launched in 2021 with an India launch planned for 2023. But due to its cramped rear seat space and the high entry price point (Rs 60 lakh), the company has decided against its launch. Also, the UX’s design and technology have now started to show age and are overshadowed by the modern designs of the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the KIA EV6.

Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL Concepts

At this year’s Japan Mobility Show, Lexus cars showcased the LF-ZC sedan and the LF-ZL SUV concepts. Built on a common architecture these next-generation concept vehicles will spawn a range of models that are expected to arrive in showrooms starting 2026. This move fits in well with the company’s overall aim to become an EV-only luxury car brand by 2035.

The new Lexus LF-ZC concept is the first of the lot to enter production in the form of a state-of-the-art luxury sedan. Expected to measure 4.75 metre in length and 1.88 metres in width, this new sedan will have a range of around 1,000 km. Overall, the new model will be shorter but wider than the Lexus ES sedan while offering a longer wheelbase of 2.89 metres.

Compared to the LF-ZC concept, the new Lexus LF-ZL concept will spawn a flagship SUV that will be larger than the current Lexus LX SUV measuring 5.3 metres in length, 2.02 metres in width and featuring a wheelbase of 3.35 metres.

In terms of exterior design, both models will feature a brand-new design philosophy with short overhangs, a new digital spindle grille and smooth body lines that help cut through air with ease.

On the inside, the new futuristic cabin features a new yoke steering wheel with a steer-by-wire system, a triple screen layout with one screen each for the instrument cluster, infotainment and passenger display. The car will also feature two digital pads next to the steering wheel that help control all vehicle controls including ADAS, climate, music, navigation and more. Furthermore, a new AR-enabled HUD will provide important information at a glance as part of the company’s ‘eyes on the road’ principle.
 
While details about the concepts are still scarce, we can expect a new industry leader to be born from the Japanese manufacturers' research facility.

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