Lexus opens reservations for UX 300e electric vehicle (EV)

Lexus is accepting online reservations for its first fully electric vehicle (EV), the UX 300e crossover.

Based on the existing UX, the new electric model is expected to cost from £43,900 when orders begin in October.

It is powered by a 201PS electric motor and is equipped with a 54.3kWh battery, giving a range of 196 miles.

With 300Nm of torque, the UX 300e can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds.

An 80% charge can be delivered in 52 minutes, using a 50kW DC charger.

Its key rival will be the upcoming Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge.

Ewan Shepherd, director of Lexus in the UK, said: “Anticipation has been high for the arrival of the UX 300e, the first production model in our Lexus Electrified global vision for creating high-quality cars that deliver the low emissions benefits of electric power together with strong performance and a genuinely rewarding driving experience.

“Lexus has unparalleled experience in electrified vehicle technology, having been a pioneer in the global premium market since the launch of the RX 400h SUV in 2004, the world’s first luxury hybrid. We will continue to develop the performance of our self-charging hybrid technology, offering our extensive range of models alongside new, all-electric vehicles, led by the new UX 300e.”

Standard features include Lexus Safety System+, Bi-LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, heated, power-adjustable front seats, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, illuminated entry, smartphone integration, power steering wheel adjustment, automatic wipers, 17-inch alloy wheels and aluminium roof rails.

Customers can also specify two option packs: Premium Plus, taking the anticipated price to £47,400, and Takumi, at £53,500.

The Premium Plus Pack includes smooth leather seat upholstery, heated steering wheel, ventilation function on the front seats, heated outer rear seats, smart keyless entry, wireless smartphone charger, card key and illuminated door handles with puddle lights.

The Takumi Pack adds even more equipment, including a 13-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound audio system, Lexus Navigation with 10.3-inch display, power-operated tailgate with hands-free function, 360-degree Panoramic View Monitor, head-up display, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, triple-eye LED headlights with Adaptive High-beam System, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto brake.

Lexus says the UX 300e is currently the only premium SUV which meets the eligibility criteria for the £3,000 plug-in vehicle grant from OLEV, the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles.

Customer deliveries are expected to commence in March 2021.