Lexus begins a new era in electrified motoring with the opening of online reservations for the new UX 300e, an all-electric version of its compact urban SUV. It is the first battery electric model from Lexus, a brand associated with hybrid electric vehicles for more than 15 years.

Reservations are being accepted

Indicative pricing has been announced, starting at £43,900 for the UX grade model. Customers can also specify either of two option packs: Premium Plus, taking the anticipated price to £47,400, and Takumi, at £53,500. Confirmed prices will be announced in October, from when customers will be able to place orders for the new model.

The new model qualifies for a zero per cent benefit-in-kind rate for 2020/2021 and one per cent in 2021/2022. With no CO₂ emissions, there is also no Vehicle Excise Duty to pay.

Lexus says the UX 300e is currently the only premium SUV that meets the eligibility criteria for the £3,000 plug-in vehicle grant from OLEV, the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles. Any grant would be subject to an application for funding and funding being available at the time the customer places their order.

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.”

Technical specifications

The UX 300e is powered by a 150kW electric motor and is equipped with a 54.3kW/h lithium-ion battery. The system produces a maximum 221 ft lb of torque and enables acceleration from rest to 62mph in 7.5 seconds. The driving range on a full charge is expected to be up to 196 miles. Using a 50kW DC charger, an 80 per cent charge should take 52 minutes to complete. Connection using a dedicated domestic AC charger should allow a full recharge in eight hours.

Dimensions and weights