Meet the Lexus ROV, a luxurious recreational ATV with a conscience

Lexus has revealed a new concept vehicle, and no, it’s not one of the typical extravagant models we see from Toyota’s luxury division. Meet the Lexus ROV (Recreational Off-highway Vehicle) Concept, a unique hydrogen-powered vehicle offering near-zero-emissions driving combined with extreme off-road capability.

According to Lexus, the ROV Concept reflects the brand’s commitment to ensure that exhilarating driving can coexist with a carbon-free society centered on responsible mobility.

The Lexus ROV Concept bears all the true hallmarks of an off-road vehicle and features exposed suspensions, a protective cage, and chunky off-road tires — for driving along muddy tracks, of course.

It provides an openness that lets its passengers feel one with the environment while offering decent protection.

Lexus said it  “designed a body that could protect passengers, incorporate the iconic Lexus signature grille and preserve enough travel for the front suspension.” In addition, the automotive brand said that the front fenders were conceived to offer protection against any stray rocks and mud.

The suspension cover, connected to the rear hydrogen fuel tank, protects functional parts as well as conveys the sense of durability inherited from Lexus SUVs.

The Lexus ROV Concept is built with a lightweight body — painted in dark bronze paint — and suspension designed for both comfort and fun off-road driving.

Inside, the concept ATV features a cockpit based on the Tazuna concept with carbon fiber trims and sports a simple meter that instantly reads the information the driver needs while the driver concentrates on driving.

It boasts a leather steering wheel and a sculpted shift knob and seats which feature suspension elements that smooth bumps out of the ride. The seats are upholstered in hard-wearing synthetic leather.

Power will come from a 1.0-liter hydrogen engine that works pretty much like a conventional gasoline power plant, but with a high-pressure tank for compressed hydrogen which is delivered precisely by a direct hydrogen injector.

More importantly, the new hydrogen engine produces close to zero emissions, with a negligible amount of engine oil burned during driving.

“The Lexus ROV is our response to the growing passion for the outdoors and adventurous spirit of luxury consumers. As a concept, it fuses our desire to also develop lifestyle-oriented products with our ongoing research into new technologies that contribute to carbon neutrality. As well as delivering a concept that is thrilling to drive, it has near-zero emissions thanks to its hydrogen-powered engine,” stated Lexus Europe Head, Spiros Fotinos.

Photos from Lexus

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