Lexus is set to make a big splash at this year’s SEMA show with a trio of off-road SUV builds that promise rugged adventure and style. Alongside these exciting off-road vehicles, Lexus has also revealed some valuable insights into the challenges that the automotive industry faces in the electric vehicle (EV) market. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Lexus’s off-road offerings and delve into the current state of the EV landscape.
Lexus 2024 GX 550 Overtrail+:
Let’s kick things off with the 2024 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+. This build is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The 550 Overtrail+ is decked out with a range of Lexus-branded accessories, including rock rails, an on-board tire compressor, and sleek accessory black badging. To enhance its off-road capabilities, the GX features a Prinsu roof rack, Pelican BX90R and BX55S cargo cases, Prinsu rear window accessory panels, and a convenient Prinsu ladder to the roof. In case you find yourself in a sticky situation, the vehicle is equipped with rotoPax two-gallon containers, a DMOS Delta shovel, and ARB Tred Pro recovery boards. While this GX doesn’t receive substantial performance upgrades, it’s worth noting that Lexus is still in the early stages of showcasing its off-road prowess, hinting at potential modifications in the future.
2022 Lexus GX 460 Premium AAP Build:
For those looking for an off-road experience that goes beyond appearances, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 Premium AAP Build is a standout choice. This GX sports a striking Matte Yellow Saffron exterior and is equipped with 34-inch Toyo Open Country all-terrain tires, CBI Offroad rock sliders, and a full skid plate to ensure protection in rough terrain. It also offers a comprehensive storage solution, including a Prinsu roof rack that accommodates a Kammock Outpost Overland Hammock Stand and a spacious 10-foot-long Kammock Roo Double Hammock. Inside the vehicle, you’ll find a 63-quart ARB Elements weatherproof fridge/freezer, an ARB Fridge Slide, and a Goose Gear rear plate system that securely holds the fridge in place.
2023 Lexus LX 600 Premium AAP Build:
The 2022 Lexus LX 600 Premium AAP Build stands out with its captivating Aquamarine wrap and factory blacked-out appearance package. While the modifications on this model are relatively subtle, they add to the vehicle’s overall appeal. The car boasts a Kammok Crosswing car awning, a Yakima EXO OpenRange Deluxe camp kitchen, and a Yakima EXO SwingBase mounted on the hitch to transport the camp kitchen. At the top, you’ll notice a Prinsu roof rack carrying a Yakima SupDawg rooftop stand-up paddleboard and surfboard mount.
Electric Vehicle Challenges:
Despite the excitement surrounding off-road vehicles, the automotive industry is facing significant challenges in the electric vehicle market. General Motors CEO Mary Barra, a long-time advocate of electric vehicles, has expressed concerns about meeting EV production targets. GM’s recent announcement of postponing its EV production goals underscores the complexities of transitioning to electric mobility. Even Tesla’s Elon Musk has acknowledged economic concerns that could lead to a decline in EV demand.
Mercedes-Benz’s CFO Harald Wilhelm has also shared insights into the competitive nature of the EV market, stating, “This is a pretty brutal space.” Automakers are grappling with growing inventory, slowing sales, and the need for substantial discounts to entice buyers. Some EVs are being sold below their sticker prices, with manufacturer incentives of nearly 10%. Dealerships are experiencing longer selling periods for EVs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, as buyers assess costs, infrastructure challenges, and lifestyle barriers.
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Conclusion:
Lexus’s captivating off-road builds at the SEMA show reflect the brand’s commitment to adventure and innovation. However, the challenges in the electric vehicle market serve as a stark reminder of the intricate path to full electrification. As industry leaders reevaluate their ambitious EV plans in response to economic and market realities, the automotive landscape is evolving.
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