Toyota, Lexus planning next-gen EVs with Tesla inspiration

Lexus is preparing for an electric vehicle push from 2026, using Tesla as a benchmark to fast-track manufacturing and lower costs.

As part of parent Toyota’s new ‘battery-electric first’ strategy, the Japanese luxury brand will lead with next-generation EVs that will be previewed next month.

Lexus International president Takashi Watanabe told Automotive News [↗] it is “important to humbly look at and learn from” Tesla by adopting a modular structure.

“We need to make it easier to build and simplify as much as possible,” Watanabe said.

“One of our first steps will be modifying and rethinking our production methods.”

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This references Tesla’s ‘giga casting’ technique, which uses a machine to fuse metal and produce larger body parts to fast-track production efficiency, cut costs and reduce weight.

Toyota has already debuted a ‘giga casting’ prototype, which pours molten aluminium into a single die-cast machine, chilled and solidified to make one-third of the vehicle body in around three minutes.

Normally, it would take 86 separate parts, 33 steps and several hours to assemble, according to Nikkei Asia [↗].

Hyundai has also reportedly benchmarked Tesla’s ‘giga casting’ method and may use it in its factories from 2026, reports Hankyung [↗].

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Watanabe added its next-generation EVs will feature a new design theme, a performance driving focus, and models targeted at different countries.

As per most other carmakers, it will also adopt a software-driven approach, which may include unlocking upgrades via a subscription or purchase.

Toyota and Lexus have been developing a simulated manual transmission for EVs, and there have been rumours of a spiritual LFA electric sports coupe revival.

The company plans to offer an electrified option for every model by 2030, ahead of going EV-only by 2035.

Lexus currently sells two pure EV options in Australia – the UX300e small SUV and RZ medium crossover, with the latter sharing the same dedicated electric platform with the upcoming Toyota BZ4x and Subaru Solterra.