It is an off-road vehicle with Lexus interior luxury.
Lexus’ off-road vehicles are not well-known, except for the LX. However, the Japanese luxury brand Lexus has now introduced a concept for a hydrogen-fueled side by-side utility vehicle. The machine is called the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle. The ROV’s 1.0-liter combustion engine burns hydrogen rather than gasoline. This layout, Lexus claims, allows for the classic sound of an ICE with virtually no emissions – a mill burning oil while driving produces a negligible amount. The hydrogen is stored in a high-pressure tank and then injected into the combustion chamber using a special injector. This is not mentioned by Lexus in the ROV’s announcement. However, the hydrogen co-combustion technology likely came from Toyota. Rumours suggest that the production engine could go on sale in 2025. The ROV combines Lexus design elements and the traditional appearance of an off-roader side-by-side. The front features the brand’s L-shaped driving lights and spindle-shaped grille.
You can see the suspension through the holes in your hood. The wheels protrude from the bodywork. The windshield is removable and Lexus-branded. The best way to see the ROV’s creased body panels, dark bronze paint and other details is from the side. The roof’s front is fitted with an LED light bar. Protective protection for the occupants is provided by a rollcage.
A great view of suspension is also available from the rear perspective. One exhaust outlet is located in the middle. The taillamps are also L-shaped, just like the headlights.The instrument cluster inside combines an analog tachometer with a digital display. The steering wheel, which is made of synthetic leather, has paddle shifters and is sporty. There are switches to control the interior lamp and light bar. You can choose between Drive, Neutral, or Reverse positions for the gearshift. The console has dials that control the drive mode as well as the headlights.
Sporty seats are available that are also covered with synthetic leather. The passengers are held in place by harnesses. Lexus has not indicated that it actually builds the ROV. This is the way the brand showcases the hydrogen-combustion engines. It is interesting, however. Lexus does not make side-byside off-roaders so this machine’s appeal is a bit muddled.