Marque’s sustainable new site
A new, standalone Lexus dealership is being built in central Christchurch with plans to open the site in the first quarter of 2024.
The showroom at 72 Tuam Street, which has been designed by Warren and Mahoney, will operate across two levels with 572 square metres of showroom, customer lounges, offices and carparking.
Aaron Frazer, Lexus of Christchurch general manager, says the marque has been represented in Christchurch since the early 1990s, first with a sales and service outlet at Ilam Toyota before moving into its own building at the corner of Tuam and Montreal streets in 1994.
“We represent a brand that is focused on delivering the next great luxury experience, and our new dealership will revolutionise luxury automotive in our region, seamlessly blending opulence with our commitment to sustainability,” he adds.
Miles Group operates the Lexus franchise in Christchurch and the new dealership has been designed using thermal modelling to optimise glazing, shading elements, thermal mass, daylight levels and passive ventilation to minimise energy input.
The concrete mix being used at the site utilises Golden Bay Cement’s Eversure cement, which delivers a 24 per cent reduction in carbon footprint compared to industry standard.
There will be electric vehicle charging stations for customer and retail vehicles, with much of the power coming from 39 solar panels on the roof that will supply about 20,000kWh of electricity per year to the showroom.
Compliance with the New Zealand Construction and Demolition Waste Reporting Criteria has also been achieved during construction and 70 per cent of building waste from the site has been diverted from going to landfill.
Lexus adds that, wherever possible, preference has been given to materials and finishes with environmental quality certifications, such as recycled, carbon neutral carpet.
Andrew Davis, Lexus New Zealand vice-president, says the development comes as the company’s sales grow with record year-to-date registrations at end of November 2023.
“Lexus has secured its position with its brave design and unique driving experience at the premium end of the market. This investment by the local franchisee, Miles Group, shows their absolute commitment to the brand and to their customers,” he adds.
