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Lexus has presented the LF-ZL concept which offers a look at a luxury electric flagship SUV that will be available in the future and is intended to deliver a customized experience using cutting-edge technology and software. The LF-ZL concept, revealed at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, carries the LF moniker, standing for Lexus Future, used for recent concept cars.
Lexus LF-ZL Platform and Design
The LF-ZL concept introduces a new design identity for Lexus although it features elements seen on the current RZ electric SUV and it presents a sleek SUV design with a redesigned grille, a long bonnet, and a spacious, rounded cabin leading to a short rear end. Notably, the LF-ZL is 5,300mm long, surpassing the new Lexus LM luxury MPV in length. It boasts dimensions of 2,200mm in width and 1,700mm in height, with a substantial wheelbase of 3,350mm to maximize interior space.
Similar to the LF-ZC and Toyota concepts at the Tokyo Motor Show, the LF-ZL is built on Toyota's next-generation modular electric architecture, offering flexibility in vehicle size, shape, and powertrain layout.
Lexus LF-ZL Interior and Features
The interior of the LF-ZL is truly futuristic accessed through wide-opening front and rear doors. The driver-centric dashboard features a steering yoke, suggesting the use of Lexus's steer-by-wire system. The cabin includes two digital control panels on either side of the dashboard. The left panel manages drive modes and driver assistance systems, while the right panel controls infotainment and ventilation. Passengers in the rear are treated to large, business-class-style reclining lounge chairs with pop-out leg rests and the concept is designed to utilize a next-generation voice recognition system that leverages AI to offer personalized assistance.
Lexus LF-ZL Battery, Range, and Powertrain
The LF-ZL idea combines improved energy efficiency with next-generation prismatic battery cells. Lexus claims it will offer around 960km of range, approximately twice that of a conventional battery electric vehicle (BEV). The smaller LF-ZC is expected to provide a range of 1,000km in production form, with variants offering lower ranges as well.
Lexus plans to implement the Arene OS software in future vehicles which aims to replicate the characteristics, sounds, and vibrations of different vehicle types to suit the driver's preferences. This could work in conjunction with the 'manual' EV transmission that Lexus is developing. The LF-ZL is equipped with onboard sensors to power Interactive Reality in Motion a system that uses digital data from the car's surroundings to provide information about places of interest during a journey when a driver points to them.
While Lexus has not disclosed specific details about when a production vehicle based on the LF-ZL might arrive the concept showcases a promising vision of what the future of premium electric SUVs from the brand could look like.