Lexus unveiled Direct4 technology for the brand’s EV future

Toyota’s luxury arm, Lexus has unveiled a new electric drive control system DIRECT4. The system has been crafted to offer unique dynamic performance to the luxury brand’s EV and hybrid lineup. Takashi Watanabe, Lexus Electrified Chief Engineer, unveiled the new system in a short film interview. 

The film provides a practical demonstration of the advantages of DIRECT4 with concept vehicle track drives. The film also offers a snapshot of Lexus' potential design thought, showing drawings and photos of a new concept car to be launched in the first quarter of 2021.

The teaser image reveals the vehicle's profile, which includes a revised version of the carmaker's iconic spindle grid that looks similar but is revised to appear sharper and even more violent. It also gets slimmer headlamps, while the absence of a combustion engine causes haunches to be made more conspicuous.

Talking about the DIRECT 4, it specifically controls the transmission of the torque from the front and rear electric mills and the stopping power to all four wheels. It automatically modifies the alignment of the front and rear-wheel drive; the machine adopts the driving style according to the driver's requirements, improves the driving feel, and gives the vehicle an optimal driving position.

According to the brand, this system is highly responsive, “giving the driver a genuine sense of being fully connected with the vehicle.” Moreover, it offers an ideal combination of predictability and enthusiasm, with strong linear acceleration, quietness, exhilarating cornering,  and comfort that are crucial to the legacy of the brand.

The DIRECT 4 mechanism uses the front and rear e-axle, each having a high torque motor along with a transaxle, concentrating on the optimal distribution of the driving power. It runs without delay because the mill is directly attached to the wheels via a single drive shaft.

It is a key technology promoting Lexus Electrified Vision, aimed at a significant leap in vehicle efficiency, handling, and driver pleasure. 

Also read: 2021 Lexus IS arrives in Japan with a comprehensive makeover