Lexus debuted its new GX SUV this night, although we have recognized for a while it is going to be a rugged, body-on-frame automobile primarily based on the Toyota Land Cruiser. However what we did not know till right now is that the brand new automobile’s ladder body may be the premise for future EVs. 

“With modifications, that is one thing that was thought of through the unique structural improvement of the [GA-F platform],” stated Lexus Chief Engineer Koji Tsukaski. “You are going to begin seeing completely different applied sciences, plug-in hybrids, going additionally into battery EVs. So the use circumstances may require sure modifications to [the ladder platform], nevertheless it was thought of and the bottom design does account for the doable use [as a BEV.]”

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The ladder body development on the Lexus GX gives a number of benefits for EVs. Not solely does the body configuration present loads of house to deal with heavy battery packs, nevertheless it offers flexibility within the placement of these batteries permitting for higher weight distribution. Moreover, the body-on-frame design permits the ladder body to underpin different automobiles, together with vans just like the Toyota Tundra or giant SUVs just like the Land Cruiser and Sequoia.   

The present Lexus GX platform dates again to the 2010 mannequin yr, and the brand new model is anticipated to have a equally lengthy life cycle, one thing confirmed by Tsukaski. “This base platform that we developed. It is one thing that we’re gonna use for some time.” He additional added, “It’s fully completely different from a monocoque platform.”

Not like monocoque or unibody platforms, that are designed with a set battery location, the ladder body on the Lexus GX may permit for various drivetrain configurations. It could additionally imply the battery pack might be mounted in a number of areas, together with underneath the third-row seats on hybrid automobiles or between the axles for full BEVs. The mix of flexibility and longevity ought to permit Lexus to proceed refining its mobility technique whereas offering a big platform for EVs forward of future all-electric mandates in Europe and a number of other US states. 

The Lexus RZ 450e is presently the one absolutely electrical automobile within the automaker’s product line, despite the fact that it was an early adopter of hybrid know-how. Its lineup presently contains a wide range of hybrid automobiles, nevertheless, together with the RX crossover, ES sedan, LS sedan, and LC flagship coupe.