by A New Approach to the Flagship
Lexus unexpectedly announced a new LS concept for the Japan Mobility Show. The model departs from the traditional sedan and transforms into a luxurious minivan with six wheels, three rows of seats, and a fully electric powertrain. Even more unexpected is that the company wants to develop the concept into a production car, although a lot of work is required to achieve this.
Official Teaser and Design
The official teaser titled “Discover” signals a new era for Lexus. We see the profile of the new LS concept with large front wheels and two pairs of smaller wheels at the rear. The concept features a one-box minivan silhouette with short overhangs and a long wheelbase. Overall, it appears larger than the LM, which is based on the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire.
Besides the unusual number of wheels, other features include vertical LED headlights and taillights that extend onto the profile, as well as an illuminated roof spoiler. A large sliding door opens to reveal a spacious cabin with ambient lighting and a six-seat layout with three rows of seats.
Serious Production Intentions
Although a six-wheeled minivan seems too bold for series production, Chairman Akio Toyoda made it clear that this is not just a concept. In his message from two years ago, he challenged the team to propose something new for the Lexus flagship:
“If we think of the LS as an electric chauffeur-driven car, wouldn’t it become a new pillar for Lexus with a new package that no one has thought of? Lexus doesn’t copy anyone, so that is our motto, so please start thinking about it… The LM is still an evolution of the Alphard, but… Will it evolve further from the LM, or… a completely new form.”
LS was initially conceived as an acronym for “Luxury Sedan,” but now Toyoda translates it as “Luxury Space,” allowing it to be used for a three-row electric vehicle. The goal was to create a chauffeur-driven car that would remain spacious even with six people inside.
Implementation Prospects
When asked if the concept would turn into a production model, Toyoda initially replied: “No, I’m not sure if they can do it.” However, a little later he added:
“It’s still a long way to go, but everyone is taking it seriously. So I’m sure it will definitely become a reality.”
The team faces challenges regarding ensuring the level of quietness and comfort expected from a Lexus vehicle and adapting it for roads. When asked if the presence of six wheels means all-wheel drive, Toyota’s design chief replied: “Maybe.”
Future Design and Plans
Furthermore, the Toyota chief wants Lexus to “dismantle the spindle grille for a while” because it “has no potential for development.” Instead, designers are trying to “assimilate the spindle throughout the body” of the car.
The Lexus LS concept will be fully unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. It is unknown whether the team can quickly transform it into a production car to replace the outdated LS sedan. The latter is expected to cease production next year, as Lexus officially announced its future departure from the American market.
It is noted that the only other six-wheeled vehicle produced by Toyota is the Lunar Cruiser, designed for driving on the Moon, with Toyoda remarking: “I’m starting to think that maybe I want to drive it on Earth.”
The transition from a classic sedan to a six-wheeled electric minivan may seem radical, but it reflects the growing need for more versatile and environmentally friendly solutions in the premium segment. If Lexus manages to implement this project, it could open a new direction for the development of luxury electric vehicles, combining space, comfort, and innovation. Success will depend on technical excellence and market acceptance of such an unusual design.
