Lexus is preparing an electric version of its legendary LFA supercar, which should retain the emotional nature of the original model, but without simply copying the sound of a gasoline engine, Autocar reports.

The prototype of the new LFA was first shown in motion at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The car will become the electric equivalent of the V8-powered Toyota GR GT supercar and will be built on the same lightweight aluminum architecture.

The new LFA is expected to become the first production Lexus with a solid-state battery. This technology enables increased energy density compared to modern lithium-ion batteries, and potentially improve the characteristics of the electric vehicle (EV).

Lexus designers have sought to maintain the philosophy of the original LFA: minimalism, functionality, and an emphasis on engineering solutions. According to the developers, the new car should not resemble an aggressive racing bomb, but rather continue the idea of the first LFA as an "artistic" and technically meticulously designed car.

The main task of the project is to change the attitude of supercar fans towards EVs. Lexus admits that many drivers consider electric sports cars artificial due to attempts to imitate the sound and feel of cars with an internal combustion engine.

They do not want to simply copy the sound of the engine; they want to create a new sound, a Lexus representatives noted.

The carmakers’ engineers believe that electric engines have advantages that are impossible to achieve with traditional engines: instant response to the accelerator pedal, high smoothness, and precise power control.

At the same time, Lexus recognizes that EVs lose some of the emotional component: sound, vibrations, and mechanical sensations. Therefore, the developers want not to artificially reproduce the old sensations, but to create a new format of interaction between the driver and the car.

The new generation of the serial Lexus LFA is expected to be launched next year. The carmaker hopes that this model will become proof that an electric sports car can be not only fast, but also emotional.