Lexus e-Latch Door System Is Some Next-Level Tech

Old Task, New Take

For many years, opening a car door was a relatively simple task - just pull a lever and push, and that was pretty much it. However, as vehicles get more and more technically advanced, we're starting to see some new takes on this ages-old process, and that includes a pair of brand new Lexus models as well.

Photos: Lexus

Mechanical to Electric

Officially known as e-Latch or Digital Latch, Lexus' new door opening system debuted on the 2022 NX but is also present in the brand new 2023 RX as well. It's a bit different than many of the other newfangled door openers we've seen in other makes and models too, as it replaces the old mechanical process with one that's electronic in nature.

Photos: Lexus

Convenient and Safe

Passengers in those particular vehicles merely have to push a button to exit, at which point the system pops the door open on its own accord. There's no door handle present inside the cabin either - just the button - which is designed to make the process of getting out of the vehicle a bit more convenient and also safer.

Photos: Lexus

Intuitive Operation

There's also a small, button-like handle inside that the passengers use to open the door, making for a pretty seamless and simple operation. Granted, this isn't quite as convenient as some ultra-luxurious vehicles that actually open the entire door for you, but it's still a pretty intuitive operation.

Photos: Lexus

Safety Tie-In

While this may seem like a simple and relatively unexciting piece of tech, there's more to the e-Latch than simply the act of making opening a car door a bit easier. In fact, Lexus pairs its blind spot monitoring safety system and the new safe-exit feature to ensure that passengers can't open the door when there's oncoming traffic. 

Photos: Lexus

Potential Downside?

Of course, this begs the question - what happens if the battery dies? Well, the system won't function as it should, of course, though it's still possible to gain access to it by prying off a panel that's located on the side of the door handle and using the physical key to open the door. There's also a manual release lever inside the cabin in case this happens while passengers are inside.

Photos: Lexus

Way of the Future?

There are many systems out there that are similar to the Lexus e-Latch, and we imagine that in the coming years, the traditional door handle as we know it might be heading the way of the dinosaur. For now, however, only new NX and RX buyers will be enjoying this particular feature.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the Lexus e-Latch Door System right here at ClubLexus.com.

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