THK LSR-05 premieres in Paris with wireless charging and tri-motor power

Showcasing the Japanese firm’s latest tech advancements and boasting styling by former Nissan GT-R designer, Shiro Nakamura, the LSR-05 looks to put THK on the map. Keep reading to find out what this crossover concept brings to the table.

Toughness, high quality, and know-how. That’s what THK stands for — both figurately, and literally. So why have you never heard of them before? Well, why while the Tokyo-based firm is no stranger to the automotive industry — it specialises in the design and manufacture of all the nuts, bolts, and bearings that modern cars are made of — it’s yet to build an entire vehicle. 

That makes this, the LSR-05, its first crack at tying all those innovative parts together. To look at, you’d certainly never know it was an inaugural effort. From the two-tone paint which emphasises a strong shoulder line and masks the SUV’s vast overall dimensions, to the slimline LED head and taillights, it’s no surprise it was penned by the same man who styled the eye-catching Nissan Cube, GTR, 350Z, and many more. 

The glossy looks are great for exposure, but it’s what’s under the skin that THK really wants to highlight. If you hadn’t already guessed, it’s an EV, but the powertrain isn’t like many other electric SUVs. Utilising variable-flux in-wheel electric motors at the rear, and a further single motor on the front axle, the THK should be good for over 500 bhp combined and a sub-4 second 0-60 sprint. And, though it will never be a mud-plugging monster with that relatively modest ride height, the all-wheel drive layout should afford excellent traction in poor conditions.

Keep reading the spec sheet and the innovations start coming thick and fast. ALCS (active level control suspension) adapts to the road conditions and can lower the vehicle for better aero efficiency when driving at high speed or when charging. Then there’s the special fluid active damper tubes which use ball screws and a viscous element to reduce vibrations in the cabin. Oh, and don’t forget the brake by wire system which reduces weight, or the wireless charging pad which renders pesky charging cables redundant. 

As we’ve already reported, inside, the THK is a masterclass in sumptuous luxury. Hopping in feels like an event in itself, thanks to the vast, pillarless, opposing rear doors. Once nestled into the spacious chairs with adjustable ‘Stealth Seat-Slide System’, you’ll be able to stretch out and find the perfect position given that the vast wheelbase and flat floor both maximise legroom. Or, if you prefer to be in the driving seat, the THK’s four-wheel steering system should make this 5m-long SUV surprisingly agile.

As with many of the boldest designs on offer at the Paris Motor Show, the LSR is concept only — there are no plans to put this luxo-barge into production, either. But, given its clamorous reception, we don’t think this is the last time we’ll see the THK badge on a new model. 

Is the LSR-05 a classic case of beginner’s luck, or should THK branch out into road car production? Let us know how you feel about their first effort.

Hero image credit:  Blackcircles.com