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News

Lexus LBX’s sub-£30,000 price won’t harm the brand, says UK boss

The challenge of ensuring the refinement expected of a Lexus in the LBX was addressed by taking a different approach to the traditional use of sound-insulating materials, according to Endo, who spoke with Autocar.

He explained that using more sound absorbers to reduce noise would increase costs, so they focused on eliminating the sound itself to create a quieter car without relying on excessive materials.

The LBX’s TNGA-B platform was also modified to ensure it drives like other Lexus models, with Endo highlighting the influence of the LS saloon from 1989.

Changes to the LBX’s dimensions include a 20mm longer wheelbase, reduced overhangs, and a wider track. The crossover now measures 4190mm in length, 1825mm in width, and 1545mm in height, with the wheelbase measuring 2580mm.

The front suspension was redesigned to optimize the LBX’s handling, with input from Toyota chairman, Akio Toyoda, known for his passion for driving, being incorporated at key stages of the process.

Furthermore, a new system automatically adjusts the brake balance to minimize body pitch and roll under heavy loads, such as emergency braking or tight bends.

Lexus LBX interior

The LBX’s interior has been designed with the driver in mind, featuring a seating position lower than that found in most crossovers. The dashboard and center console have been simplified, with important controls assigned to physical switches.

Standard equipment includes a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, as well as a 12.3-inch digital instrument display.

Lexus LBX trims

There are six trims available for the LBX, starting with the entry-level Urban model priced at £29,995. This trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a rear-view camera.

The Premium trim level adds features such as heated front seats, rear privacy glass, and blindspot monitoring, among others.

News

New Ford Explorer launch postponed until mid-2024

Ford’s upcoming model, the new Explorer, will now be launched in mid-2024, according to Leenarts, a representative from the company. While the new Explorer differs significantly from its predecessor, it is important for Ford that it maintains the same adventurous character. Leenarts also mentioned that Ford plans to reintroduce other well-known vehicle names to new products, aiming to highlight the firm’s heritage. He expressed that the public appreciates this strategy of expanding nameplates to new territories.

The design team of the new Explorer has made use of various techniques to ensure the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency and interior space, while still maintaining a minimalist and upright two-box silhouette reminiscent of the original Explorer, as well as Ford’s iconic USA models, including the Bronco and F-150. Noteworthy design features include a bold front end with a larger logo, a beltline that wraps around the entire car, generous wheel arches, and a floating roof with contrasting black A-pillars.

The designers are keen to highlight that while the Explorer breaks away from the established conventions of Ford design, future models will not adopt the same cues and proportions. Each car will have its own unique character and design. The design team prioritized increasing interior space compared to similar-sized internal combustion engine vehicles. This was made possible by the flat floor and modularity of the MEB platform, which allows the Explorer to offer large car qualities in a relatively compact size.

Notably, the new Explorer does not have storage space under the bonnet. However, it features a hidden load bay under the boot floor, similar to the Puma model. Additionally, the Explorer is equipped with a 17-litre ‘Megaconsole’ cubby located between the two front seats, which is one of the largest in any production car. The boot space is sized at 450 litres with the seats up, surpassing the capacity of the Mustang Mach-E, and expands to 1400 litres with the seats folded. The load floor can also be adjusted according to one’s needs.

News, Technology

Women Accuse Contracting Firm of Intrusive Pre-Employment Questions at Bill Gates’ Ventures

According to a recent statement, a spokesperson from Gates Ventures denies any knowledge of inappropriate questions being asked during the screening process in their 15+ years of operation. They confirm that no job offers have been rescinded based on such information.

The security company named in the report is Concentric Advisors, accused of conducting these alleged applicant assessments. In response, Concentric Advisors states that while applicants may provide such information voluntarily, they never requested those details. The Wall Street Journal, however, claims to have reviewed documents, including one that describes a consent form for a “behavioral assessment” covering previous drug and alcohol use. The document states that the assessment would help determine the applicant’s “suitability for employment.”

The core concern revolves around the potential violation of employment laws if such questioning did occur. Concentric Advisors asserts compliance with pre-employment screening regulations and an internal email leaked to Gates Ventures employees reportedly indicates that the company was unaware of any such questions being asked.

News

2026 Lotus Type 135: Electric Elise still in works after Alpine split

Lotus is continuing its legacy of excellence in dynamics, aerodynamics, and lightweighting with the upcoming release of the Type 135, an all-electric sports car. Although it will have a different propulsion system, Lotus aims to maintain its signature qualities while also benefiting from features like instant torque, easier cooling, and better packaging. As a result, the Type 135 will offer ample storage and packaging benefits.

The E-Sports platform, which will underpin the Type 135, will support both single- and twin-motor powertrains. The power output is expected to range from 469bhp to 872bhp, offering significantly more power than the current Elise models. The higher-powered versions of the Type 135 could even fill the gap left by the track-focused Exige.

The E-Sports platform is designed to accommodate both rear- and four-wheel-drive powertrains. Although the showcased concepts have so far featured rear-mounted drive systems, Lotus remains open to the possibility of offering a torque-vectoring setup similar to the one found in the flagship Evija. As a result, certain defining features from the Evija may find their way into future Lotus sports cars.

Lotus is also focused on making the Type 135 as aerodynamically efficient as possible. Taking inspiration from the Venturi tunnels of the Evija, the car will feature aerodynamic aids that run throughout its design. This design approach takes advantage of the compact nature of an electric drivetrain. However, while the Type 135 will have similarities to the hypercar, it will be far more accessible and affordable.

Lotus plans to leverage the efficiencies within the broader Geely group, which includes Volvo, Polestar, Lynk&Co, and LEVC, to keep development and retail costs down. By utilizing components and systems from other brands, Lotus aims to deliver affordable performance. While it may not be possible to offer the Type 135 at the same price as the entry-level Elise, the cost of necessary materials and components is expected to decrease significantly. This could potentially position the Type 135 in the price range of the retired Exige line-up, estimated to be between £80,000 and £100,000.