Lexus, known for its commitment to pioneering technology, has unveiled a series of new battery electric concept models at the first Japan Mobility Show. With the theme “Pushing the Boundaries of the Electrified Experience,” Lexus offers a glimpse into its plans to maximise the potential of electrification and new technologies for delivering innovative mobility experiences.
LF-ZC
Among the featured concepts, the Lexus LF-ZC, a battery electric saloon concept, takes center stage. This concept provides a preview of an upcoming production model scheduled for release in 2026. The LF-ZC is joined by the LF-ZL, a flagship battery electric SUV concept that showcases the brand’s vision for a sustainable and integrated future.
LF-ZL
As a brand with a rich history of challenging luxury car conventions and exceeding customer expectations, Lexus is committed to becoming a battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand in Europe by 2030 and globally by 2035. To achieve this goal, the company plans to introduce a revolutionary modular vehicle structure, adopt advanced production technologies, and revamp its vehicle software platform.
Lexus aims to offer BEVs that balance functionality and beauty, without compromise. The next-generation Lexus BEVs will benefit from versatile packaging, downsizing, weight reduction, and continuous refinement of the “Lexus Driving Signature,” offering an exhilarating driving experience.
Intro Synergy Sdn. Bhd., the exclusive distributor of NETA models in Malaysia, has officially introduced the NETA V electric vehicle (EV) in the Malaysian market. The NETA V was initially shown to the public back in May when bookings were available.
Intro Synergy announced that the NETA V can be reserved in Malaysia at an on-the-road (OTR) price of RM100,000. The NETA V is the company’s debut EV offering in the passenger car segment and comes with a range of warranty options to ensure peace of mind for customers. These warranties include:
– 5-year or 150,000 km warranty for general components.
– 8-year or 180,000 km warranty for EV High Voltage Components, including the battery and on-board charger.
– 10-year or 200,000 km warranty for the vehicle’s body.
The NETA V is available in five distinct colours which are Sakura Pink, Sky Blue, Moonlight Green, Midnight Gray, Cyan, and White Storm.
The official launch event also unveiled the NETA V’s exclusive Malaysian body kit, which enhances the car’s sporty appearance. The redesigned front skirts extend the NETA V’s frontal profile, while the rear and side skirts create a sleek and aerodynamic exterior.
The NETA V boasts an electric motor that produces up to 127hp of power and a maximum torque of 160Nm, resulting in swift acceleration. It can go from 0 to 50km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 120km/h in actual tests. The car supports both fast and slow charging and is equipped with a battery management system that optimises charging times, allowing a 20% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes through DC Fast Charging. It also features the HEPT 3.0 Thermostatic Battery Management System with liquid cooling to maintain battery efficiency while conserving cooling energy.
To encourage drivers to make the switch to EVs, the NETA V offers two package options. The first option includes a free EV Starter Package with essential accessories such as a home charger and installation, V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), body kits, auto tailgate, tint film, CO2 eliminator, and insurance. The second option is an interest-free package with up to 7 years of financing, subject to terms and conditions.
NETA has established a network of dealers and service centers in the Klang Valley, northern, southern, and eastern regions of Peninsula Malaysia, and also in Sabah. The brand has plans to further expand its network as it aims to gain momentum in the Malaysian market.
NETA’s introduction to the Malaysian market represents a commitment to contributing to the national agenda of carbon neutrality by 2050. GoAuto Group Executive Chairman, Dato’ SM Azli SM Nasimuddin Kamal, emphasized the group’s role in helping consumers transition to electric-based transportation modes.
NETA’s Vice-President, Mr. Alan Zhou, expressed excitement about the rapid growth of interest in electric vehicles within Malaysia and highlighted the company’s commitment to offering environmentally-friendly technology while providing excellent value to Malaysian consumers. NETA aims to make a positive contribution to the local market through its partnership with Intro Synergy.
This launch aligns with the broader industry trend toward sustainable mobility and supports Malaysia’s efforts to adopt green transportation solutions.
Mazda Motor Corporation has debuted its new concept car, the Mazda Iconic SP, for the first time at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. This concept is designed as a compact sports car, tailored to adapt to the evolving era while resonating with customers who have a passion for cars and seek the pure joy of driving.
The Mazda Iconic SP introduces a cutting-edge powertrain, featuring Mazda’s distinctive two-rotor rotary EV system, which remains compact and offers versatile layout flexibility. This design choice ensures a low centre of gravity, thereby enhancing driving performance. The vehicle’s batteries are charged using a recyclable energy source, and a two-rotor rotary engine, utilised for power generation, is powered by carbon-neutral fuel. The striking Viola Red colour highlights the concept model, embodying Mazda’s corporate philosophy of “enriching life-in-motion for those we serve.”
Mazda aimed for proportions with a low centre of gravity, creating the impression of excellent driving performance. The innovative approach of placing the lightweight and compact rotary engine in the car’s centre results in a low hood.
The two-rotor rotary EV system, employing a highly scalable rotary engine capable of burning various fuels like hydrogen, generates electricity using carbon-neutral fuel. When the battery is charged with electricity from renewable sources, driving in a nearly carbon-neutral state becomes possible.
High output from the two-rotor rotary EV system, combined with a low centre of gravity, a weight distribution ratio of about 50:50, and low proportions, deliver excellent driving performance. Despite its sports car classification, the vehicle can serve as a power source during outdoor activities and during disasters.
The exterior body colour, Viola Red, was meticulously developed to reflect Mazda’s commitment to “cherishing the colour red” and aligns with the corporate philosophy of “enriching life-in-motion for those we serve.” The goal was to create a vivid colour with shaded elements accentuating its shape.
During the ongoing Japan Mobility Show, Honda surprised enthusiasts with the unveiling of the new-age Prelude Concept. While Honda has not yet confirmed whether the Prelude Concept will lead to a production model, this move follows Acura’s revival of the Integra nameplate, leaving the door open for Honda to make a similar comeback.
The Prelude concept stands out from its predecessors, as it departs from the traditional compact two-door coupe design. Instead, the new model is considerably larger, in line with contemporary vehicle sizes.
From the front, the Prelude Concept could easily be mistaken for a new Toyota model, possibly part of the new Crown family. It features sharp headlights connected by an LED light bar located just above the space where a license plate would be situated. The lower bumper section is adorned in black with a mesh pattern and a small vertical design element finished in blue.
The side profile aligns more closely with the Prelude legacy. It displays small black wing mirrors, flush door handles, angular rocker panels, and gloss black wheels with blue brake calipers hinting at its performance potential. The roofline tapers towards the rear, although Honda has yet to reveal the full rear view of the concept.
Honda has provided limited details about the Prelude Concept. It describes the model as “sporty” and promises to deliver “the joy of driving” and “provide extraordinary excitement that you have never felt before.” While Honda has confirmed that the model is electric, it has not disclosed further information about its powertrain.
As it stands, Honda’s Prelude Concept represents a bold step into the future, embracing the evolving design language and technology to deliver an electrifying driving experience.
Additional specifications and the production future of the Prelude Concept have not been confirmed by Honda at this early stage.
Mercedes-AMG expands its model portfolio with the new GLE 53 hybrid 4MATIC+, available as both an SUV and a Coupe. This plug-in hybrid vehicle offers impressive performance and a significant electric range, making it a well-rounded choice for daily use.
The heart of this sporty hybrid is a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine, known as the conventional GLE, has been extensively modified for the hybrid variant. With 449hp, it now produces 14hp more than the previous version. The upgrades include reprogrammed software and an additional nose cooler. In the hybrid version, the electric motor takes over the task of the electric additional compressor, which leads to an extremely spontaneous and dynamically responsive 3.0-litre engine.
This inline six-cylinder is mated to a 100 kW electric motor, a 31.2 kWh traction battery, and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The hybrid system delivers a maximum power output of 544hp and a peak torque of 750Nm, translating into impressive driving performance. The GLE 53 hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. It can travel purely on electric power at speeds of up to 140km/h.
The hybrid model offers a remarkable electric range of 80-86km for the SUV variant and 82-87km for the Coupe, according to WLTP standards. For charging, an 11 kW AC charger is included, and a 60 kW DC fast charger can be equipped upon request, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.
Design-wise, it inherits the design changes introduced in the conventional GLE models. It stands out with open cooling air inflow in the centre of the front guard, which accommodates an additional nose cooler. The exterior features hybrid-specific badges on the fenders and rear to denote its electrified drive. Standard equipment includes 21-inch alloy wheels and the AMG high-performance brake system with large brake discs.
Inside, the MBUX infotainment system incorporates hybrid-specific displays and features, providing information on the battery’s status, temperature, and electric range.
The chassis has been extensively upgraded, with new passive stabilisers, stop buffers in the front struts, and fresh dampers on the rear axle. The AMG ride control air suspension with adaptive damping offers a comfortable ride and sporty handling, designed for a balance between electric driving and sporty performance.
The GLE 53 hybrid features AMG dynamic select driving programs, offering various driving modes to suit different scenarios. It includes hybrid-specific driving programs, such as “Electric” for electric-only driving and “Battery Hold” to maintain the battery’s charge level for future use.
The legal Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) warns pedestrians of the approaching performance hybrid by broadcasting a specially composed low-frequency AMG sound, which is audible both inside and outside the vehicle, ensuring safety and compliance.
The GLE 53 hybrid 4MATIC+ offers a dynamic and efficient plug-in hybrid option, enhancing the brand’s electrified portfolio. It combines Mercedes-AMG’s renowned performance with eco-friendly driving, offering a versatile solution for a wide range of driving scenarios.
Specific availability and features may vary based on market and regional regulations.
Ferrari’s Special Projects division has revealed the latest creation from its atelier, the one-of-a-kind SP-8 roadster. Commissioned by a wealthy customer from Taiwan, the SP-8 is based on the Ferrari F8 Spider but with a key modification – it’s a true roadster, as its electrically retractable hardtop has been removed to create an open-top experience.
This unique SP-8 roadster boasts a striking two-tone exterior. It’s painted in matte Argento Micalizzato with carbon fibre sections finished in glossy iridescent Blue Sandstone. The open-air design showcases a unique and refreshed look compared to the donor car.
The SP-8 differentiates itself further from the F8 Spider with several bespoke elements. It features all-new headlights with unique masks and lenses, while the taillights are inspired by the Ferrari Roma but come with custom lenses. The windscreen and exhaust tips are borrowed from the Ferrari 296 GTB. It rides on retro-inspired five-spoke alloy wheels with a matte gray finish, reminiscent of the iconic F40’s wheels.
The SP-8 also showcases an imposingly wide aluminum front grille, created from a single 3D-printed mold, with classic vertical strakes. The grille theme is extended to the engine cover with longitudinal strakes, a nod to Ferrari’s classic models with side strakes, like the Testarossa.
Ferrari paid special attention to the SP-8’s body design to ensure it remains comfortable and quiet despite the absence of a roof. Extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were used in its development.
Inside, the roadster features a change in the gear selector, harkening back to the days of gated shifters. The interior incorporates cloth material, a unique choice for a Ferrari, combined with laser-etched Navy Blue Alcantara. The carpets are made from twill fabric with an iridescent effect.
Under the SP-8’s hood lies the same mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 engine as the F8 Spider, delivering a potent 710hp and 770Nm of torque to the rear wheels.
The Ferrari SP-8 is currently on display at the Mugello track in Italy and will remain there until the end of the Finali Mondiali Ferrari 2023 event on October 30. Afterwards, it will move to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where it will be exhibited from November 16 until March 2024.
