Toyota Motor looks set on building its next-generation SUV in China under Lexus. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the new SUV will be made at Lexus’ manufacturing plant in Shanghai and will target producing 1,000 vehicles per month in its first year, with a substantial increase annually.
The new SUV will be made using gigacasting technology to mold the entire frame into a single piece. The process is said to decrease the frame’s weight by up to 20%, improving driving range and performance. Additionally, the new manufacturing process develops a stiffer body while also simplifying the whole assembly, leading to faster production.
With Toyota and Lexus introducing more electrified lineups, it looks like more of their BEVs could be made in China, considering the country’s swift growth in the global EV industry. Currently, most of Lexus’ cars are made in Japan, including the NX, LX, IS, LS, and LC models available in the Philippines.
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Lexus hasn’t specified a model name or powertrain details for its upcoming EV. But if the unfortunately cancelled LF-ZC concept is anything to go by, expect a sharp-looking SUV with large infotainment screens. While we’re at it, add long range and Lexus’ Sensory Concierge technology into the mix, too.
So far, the new SUV is set to begin production in 2027. We’ll give you more updates when the brand reveals more. What features would you like to see in the Japanese manufacturer’s upcoming EV? Let us know in the comments.
