Lexus Electrified AE86: The Electric AE86 with a Stick Shift

The Electric AE86 Project

• 💡 The Toyota AE86 Levin BEV is an electric restomod created by Lexus Electrified Development Division, blending heritage with high voltage.
• 🎯 The primary goal was to ensure a future for iconic cars like the AE86 by utilizing electrification technology.
• 🔑 The project aimed to preserve the driving fun and the unique dialogue between driver and car, which is central to the AE86's appeal.

Engineering and Powertrain

• ⚡ The AE86 BEV uses a 36-kilowatt motor from a Tundra hybrid bolted directly to a current-generation six-speed manual transmission from a GR86.
• 🔋 Powering the vehicle is an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery from a Lexus NX 450h plug-in hybrid, located in the trunk.
• ⚖️ The converted car weighs just over 2,300 lbs, maintaining a similar power-to-weight ratio to the original AE86.
• 🔊 A key engineering challenge was recreating the sound and vibration of the original 4A-GE engine, using recorded audio mapped to throttle position.

Driving Experience and Innovation

• 🚗 The electric AE86 retains its manual transmission, allowing for real gear shifts and an intuitive driving experience.
• 🧠 The engineers focused on preserving the analog feel and lightweight characteristics of the original car, despite the added weight of the EV components.
• 🚀 The car features instant torque, offering a classic driving feel with modern electric punch, surprising drivers with its responsiveness.
• 🛠️ While not a production vehicle, the project explores concepts like hot-swappable batteries for motorsports and the potential for future electrification of enthusiast cars.

Future of Enthusiast EVs

• 💬 Feedback from this prototype could inform future BEV sports cars from Lexus, with a focus on crafting fun, analog-feeling electric vehicles.
• 📈 Lexus is studying customer feedback and demand for manual transmissions in future EVs, potentially leading to production models.
• 💡 The project highlights Lexus's commitment to preserving automotive heritage through innovative electrification, demonstrating that EVs can maintain the soul of classic cars.
• 🌟 Kenji Arai, Chief Engineer, has a 40-year career in powertrain engineering, with this project representing a unique challenge and a successful endeavor.