Lexus, under new global boss Takashi Watanabe, is embracing the era of fully electric vehicles (EVs) and looking to accelerate its presence in the EV market. Watanabe, who took over as president of Lexus in April, acknowledges the need to learn from industry leaders like Tesla as the luxury brand seeks to expand and transform. Lexus plans to introduce its next-generation battery EV in 2026, revolutionizing vehicle modular structure, production methods, and software platforms. The brand aims to sell 1 million EVs annually by 2030, working toward an all-electric lineup by 2035. However, despite its ambitious goals, Toyota and Lexus combined only sold 24,466 EVs in 2022, accounting for just 0.26% of their total sales. With around 7,400 EVs sold in the first seven months of 2023, Watanabe acknowledges the need for faster adaptation and intends to take inspiration from Tesla’s achievements. Toyota is also investing in advanced EV battery technologies, design improvements, and manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency and lower costs. Lexus seeks to differentiate itself through unique design, software operating systems, and an enriched EV product lineup.
Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, is preparing to embrace the electric vehicle (EV) revolution under the leadership of its new global president, Takashi Watanabe. Watanabe, who assumed the role in April, is committed to accelerating Lexus’ transition to EVs, and he acknowledges that the brand has much to learn from industry frontrunners like Tesla. In 2026, Lexus plans to introduce its next-generation battery EV, which will bring innovations in vehicle structure, production processes, and software platforms. The brand is targeting the sale of 1 million EVs annually by 2030 as it progresses towards a fully electric lineup by 2035. However, despite its ambitions, Lexus and Toyota combined sold just 24,466 electric vehicles in 2022, representing a mere 0.26% of their total sales. In the first seven months of 2023, the brands have sold approximately 7,400 EVs.
Watanabe’s leadership is expected to drive Lexus towards greater electrification, leveraging Toyota’s advancements in EV battery technology, design enhancements, and manufacturing efficiencies. To stand out in the competitive EV market, Lexus aims to offer unique design elements, software systems, and a diverse range of EV models.
