The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo will mark a significant milestone for Lexus, as the brand will feature heavily in new technology initiatives from parent company Toyota, who will provide a fleet of 3,000 passenger vehicles for official use.
Here’s what we can look forward to:
- With the overarching goal of “mobility for all”, certain Toyota/Lexus vehicles at the summer games will be equipped with SAE Level 2 automation, allowing for hands-off driving on highways. There will also be demonstrations of SAE Level 4 automation, where all driving functions are performed by the vehicle.
- Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be used extensively throughout the Olympics, with every possibility of a Lexus vehicle featuring the technology.
- Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrids will play a large role in shuttling athletes and dignitaries, and may include a new Lexus plug-in.
- Most significant of all, Toyota promises Battery Electric Vehicles will be part of the Olympic fleet.
At this point, there is no indication of what vehicles will be introduced and what technologies they will feature — the LS+ Concept from last year’s Tokyo Motor Show could be an earlier preview of what to expect. Regardless, it’s clear that Toyota sees the 2020 Olympics as a major technology showcase, and that can only be exciting for Lexus enthusiasts.
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