Luxury automaker Lexus announced that it is in the middle of efforts to develop a software-based manual transmission for its upcoming battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Lexus is working on equipping its future electric vehicles with a manual transmission
According to a report by insideevs.com, the company bared the details at Toyota’s Kenshiki media forum in Brussels, Belgium, where it highlighted the designs and engineering that customers can expect on next-generation offerings from Lexus.
One of these that Lexus promises will “reinvent the driving experience” is the concept of a manual gearbox for BEVs. Far from being just an idea on paper, the carmaker says it is already conducting tests on a research prototype based on the UX 300e compact SUV, complete with a simulated gearshift lever and clutch pedal.
The UX 300e is reportedly the basis of the current prototype being used for development
“From the outside, this vehicle is as quiet as any other BEV. But the driver is able to experience all the sensations of a manual transmission vehicle,” said Lexus Electrified Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe. “It is a software-based system, so it can be programmed to reproduce the driving experience of different vehicle types, letting the driver choose their preferred mapping.”
Lexus explains that it decided to develop the stick shift for EVs as many drivers would like to retain the control and engagement made possible by this type of gearbox, which has been traditionally associated with combustion engines. EVs typically use a single speed transmission expanded by a reduction gear system for power transmission, which results in instantaneous torque delivery but is frowned upon for being ‘too sterile.’
The production version of the Lexus Electrified Sport concept could be the first to receive the simulated gearbox
The automaker has yet to disclose when this manual gearbox for BEVs will be made available to the public. However, it notes that the feature will work with Direct4 torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive, One Motion Grip steer-by-wire, and brake-by-wire systems, all of which are software-based.
“(These) will provide new opportunities for performance customization to provide a personalized experience for each driver,” Lexus added.
See more unlikely yet promising automotive ideas at Philkotse.com.
Know more about Lexus UX 2024
The Lexus UX is a premium subcompact crossover designed to suit the urban lifestyle. Though considered to be the smallest vehicle in the stable of Lexus, this versatile automobile will exceed your expectations. Available locally is the 250h Premier priced at Php 3,098,000, and the 250h F Sport for Php 3,838,000.
Under the hood of the Lexus UX is a 2.0-liter hybrid gasoline engine. At maximum, this four-banger can produce up to 181 horsepower and 188 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to its front wheels via a continuously variable transmission.
Size-wise, the current version of the Lexus UX is 4,495mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,520mm in height.
Locally, the UX competes against the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Porsche Macan, Audi Q3, Mini Countryman, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, etc.
>>> New and used Lexus UX 2024 for sale in the Philippines
Lexus UX Launch
The Lexus UX, or “Urban Explorer,” was launched at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. It's the first model in the stable of Lexus to utilize the Toyota New Global Architecture. Locally available variants include the Lexus UX 250h Premier, and the 250h F Sport.
Lexus UX Exterior
Both variants of the Lexus UX measure 4,495mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,520mm tall. Its sleek and sporty body is engineered with the right amount of curves, and lines to assist its reliable aerodynamic power. Exterior highlights include the Japanese premium carmaker’s iconic spindle grille with block-shaped mesh. It also has a pair of sleek and compact LED headlights, L-shaped daytime running lights, door mirrors with heater and LED signal, air vents on the contemporary-shaped bumpers, LED rear combination lamps, and a wheel arch with aero stabilizers to lessen wind resistance and improve its unstoppable performance.
Lexus UX Interior
Though belonging to the subcompact category, the cabin of the Lexus UX is roomy. The Lexus UX 250h F Sport is designed with a High Feel interior trim. It features synthetic leather seats, power lumbar support in the driver’s seat, an eight-way power-adjusted front seat with a heater, and a back door with sensor.
Standard on all variants is the air conditioning system with odor removal function and filter.
Technology & Safety Features
The Lexus UX comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is then linked to a 10-piece speaker system. In terms of safety, both variants come with a generous number of SRS airbags, traction control, vehicle stability control, an anti-lock brake system, a brake assist system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an immobilizer system.
Platform & Chassis
The Lexus UX series is built with a MacPherson Strut suspension at the front and a Trailing Wishbone suspension at the rear. Its braking power is assisted by a ventilated disc at the front and solid rotors at the rear.
Engine & Drivetrain
Both variants are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with a Direct-Shift CVT transmission. At maximum, it can produce up to 181 horsepower and 188 Newton meters of torque.
Available colors for the Lexus UX in the Philippine market include Black, Madder Red, Sonic Titanium, Celestial Blue Glass Flake, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Terrane Kahaki Mica Metallic, Sonic Quartz, and Blazing Carnelian.
The current version of the Lexus UX is on-par with its competitors when it comes to offering a comfortable, and also practical interior. It might not be the most powerful in the segment, but it is a decently beefy hybrid. It also has an exterior that balances sleekness and sportiness. This might also be found on other luxury crossovers, but the UX is particularly eye-catching.
Lexus UX 2024 Price List
Let's check out the Great 2024 price in the Philippines.
| Variants | Price |
|---|---|
| Lexus UX 250h Premier | ₱3,098,000 |
| Lexus UX 250h F Sport | ₱3,838,000 |
Lexus UX 2024 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Eye-catching exterior design
- Plush interior
- Peppy engine
Cons
- Rear seats can be tights for larger individuals
Lexus UX FAQs
1. How much are the 2 variants of the 2024 Lexus UX?
There is a considerably different price: Lexus UX 250h Premier is priced at ₱3,098,000 and Lexus UX F Sport 200 2.0 AT is ₱3,838,000.
2. How fast is a 2024 Lexus UX?
The 2024 Lexus UX 200 top speed is 190 Km/h/118 mph.
3. Is 2024 Lexus UX safe?
The 2024 Lexus UX is equipped with high standard safety features including 6 SRS airbags, traction control, vehicle stability control, an anti-lock brake system, brake assist system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an immobilizer system. With four stars in the frontal collision and rollover tests and five stars in the side crash test, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Lexus UX a five-star overall safety rating.
4. Is the 2024 Lexus UX the smallest Lexus SUV?
Yes. The Lexus UX is positioned as the smallest vehicle in the Lexus crossover lineup and fitted the urban lifestyle.
5. What exactly does Lexus UX mean?
UX indicates Urban Crossover.
₱ 3,058,000 - ₱ 3,798,000
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