Lexus has introduced the concept of an unusual SUV with a hydrogen engine

Lexus, being a division of Toyota, is known as a manufacturer of premium executive cars – but it is no less successful in the SUV market. Her latest achievements are the chic LX600 and GX460 based on the Land Cruiser. However, even in this abode of automotive luxury, the winds of change are blowing.

The company has introduced the concept of a recreational SUV (ROV) with a hydrogen engine – a curious alternative to fully electric SUVs actively capturing the automotive market.

Toyota has been developing hydrogen internal combustion engines for quite a long time (as a result, it is almost a serial Toyota Mirai – ed. TechCult.ru). However, Lexus decided to use a new experimental ICE technology developed by Toyota for sports applications.The ROV has a liter engine powered by a tank with high-pressure compressed hydrogen. Lexus does not disclose specific engine indicators, but they assure that it provides an instant increase in torque – an important advantage for an SUV.

So far, unlike silent electric vehicles, the ROV hydrogen engine emits a powerful hum. However, the reduction of noise, according to Lexus, is only a matter of time.

The dimensions of the ROV are 312 x 173 x 180 cm . Inside the cabin, a slight shade of luxury is left in the form of a leather-covered steering wheel and a seat suspension system that dampens road shaking. According to the developers, they have not yet managed to get rid of local emissions associated with a small amount of burned oil. At the same time, the power of the engine itself is still kept secret. According to the head of Lexus Europe Spyros Fotinos, “Lexus ROV is our response to the desire of luxury consumers for nature and the spirit of adventure.”