Global debut of LF-Z Electrified signals new era for Lexus

The global online debut of the LF-Z Electrified concept signals future initiatives and the start of a new era of brand evolution for Lexus.

Lexus has gained a unique market position through the concurrent development of the world’s most extensive range of premium hybrid electric vehicles and the production of the LFA supercar and other thoroughbred “F” performance models.

Its hybrid electric strategy has yielded almost two million sales globally, since the introduction of the RX 400h in 2005, while today it offers nine hybrid electric and battery electric models for sale in around 90 countries worldwide.

Its distinguished record as a technology innovator and world leader in electrified powertrains gives it the perfect platform from which to meet new challenges.

The new LF-Z Electrified concept incorporates driving performance, styling and technologies that Lexus plans to realise by 2025. It will further advance the Lexus Driving Signature, bringing together expertise gained in performance car development, with new opportunities offered by electrified powertrains, giving the driver exceptional responsiveness and a sense of being fully connected with their car.

The LF-Z Electrified delivers this through its use of advanced technologies and a dedicated EV platform. For example, it achieves superior dynamic performance, thanks to the ideal location of the battery and electric motor, DIRECT4 all-wheel drive technology and other features that ensure a high degree of mobility freedom, setting it apart from conventional vehicles. It is also set to provide advanced infotainment functions to Lexus customers in the near future.

By 2025, Lexus will introduce 20 new or upgraded models, including over 10 battery electric (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEVs) and self-charging hybrid electric (HEVs) to meet the needs of different countries and regions around the world. It will also strengthen its core sedan and SUV ranges, while exploring the possibility of introducing new vehicle types, including sports models, cars appropriate for chauffeur driving and models in entirely new categories.

Throughout, Lexus will rise to the challenge of delivering new premium values, while exceeding the diverse expectations of its customers worldwide.

Lexus LF-Z Electrified: Principle Features

The LF-Z Electrified augurs the future of Lexus, with design, driving and advanced technologies that will feature in new models, to be introduced by 2025.

• Its use of a dedicated EV platform is a fundamental step in realising the Lexus Electrified goal of “using electrification technology to achieve a significant evolution in basic vehicle performance”. The new DIRECT4 all-wheel drive control system also sets the concept apart from conventional vehicles.
• By combining the electrification and motion-control technologies it has developed over the years, Lexus aims to deliver the Lexus Driving Signature with a driving experience that builds a better, direct connection with the driver.
• The model’s exterior bodywork is deeply sculpted, accentuating an emotional appeal intrinsic to Lexus, while mounting the high-output electric motor at the rear contributes to a dynamic and agile performance.
• The interior is an open, minimalist space, featuring a Tazuna cockpit design tailored to the specific qualities of EV driving and embracing the human-centred philosophy that has been at the heart of Lexus throughout the brand’s history.
• The vehicle’s Artificial Intelligence uses dialogue with the driver to learn their personal preferences and behavioural characteristics, enabling it to make helpful suggestions such as details about route guidance and destination information. The AI will also add to the driver’s peace of mind by considering safety issues throughout the journey.

New Tazuna cockpit and open-interior concept

The cockpit is the heart of the vehicle, while the instrument panel and other elements are positioned relatively low down in relation to the occupants. This creates a refreshing sense of openness and the welcoming omotenashi quality of a hospitality space, where every detail has been carefully considered.

A seamless connection from the cowl to the front and rear doors gives the space a clean and high-quality feel. The glass panoramic roof adds to the feeling of openness throughout the cabin.

Driver information sources, such as the Augmented Reality head-up display,  gauges multimedia touchscreen and other elements, are contained in a single module, while driving system controls are grouped around the steering wheel. This layout suggests the direction next-generation Lexus interior styling will take, with the forward view expanded and the driver’s line of sight naturally drawn forwards.

Advanced features to enrich the driving experience

The LF-Z Electrified’s AI provides constant support and takes an active role by learning the driver’s preferences and behavioural characteristics. Voice communication contributes to the ease of driving. The voice recognition function uses the latest AI to recognise, learn and adapt to the driver’s habits and preferences, offering support with tasks such as planning driving routes and providing destination information. This interactivity will build a dialogue between the AI and the driver, improving the driving experience lifestyle concierge-type support.

Meanwhile, a digital key gives family and friends access to the car without having to share a physical equivalent. Vehicle functions can also be operated using a smartphone, such as door locking and unlocking. By giving service providers access to the vehicle via the digital key, drivers can enable services such as package delivery to the car and car-sharing.