2025 Lexus and EV tech previewed in LF-Z Electrified concept
Lexus has given a glimpse into its electric future with the LF-Z concept.
The futuristic four-door previews a 2025 production car that promise to catapult the hybrid-focused brand into an EV future.
Brimming with advanced technology, the sleek, angular four-seater showcases a bold new look that Lexus says “strongly accentuates the uniqueness of Lexus design and expresses the dynamic and agile driving sensation delivered by high-output electric motors”.
While the LF-Z Electrified – complete with an illuminated “Electrified” badged across its rump – is clearly focused on performance, there’s also a crossover element to its stance, with a raised ride height and contrasting wheel arch surrounds.
At 4880mm long, 1960mm wide and 1600mm while riding on a 2950mm wheelbase it’s a sizeable mid-to-large car that should deliver impressive interior space; the back seats appear to blend race car-like support with modern comfort.
Lexus hasn’t detailed the drivetrain of the LF-Z Electrified concept, although a cutaway shows two electric motors driving all four wheels through the brand’s Direct4 all-wheel drive system.
The total output is 400kW and 700Nm and the 0-100km/h dash is claimed to take 3.0 seconds on the way to a top speed of 200km/h.
A 90kWh battery promises 600km of WLTP range and it can accept a DC charge of 150kW.
There’s no mechanical link with the steering, with a steer-by-wire system claimed to offer more precise steering and adjustability depending on the driving conditions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is designed as a “lifestyle concierge” that can learn the driver’s preference, suggest better routes and even make restaurant bookings.
While Lexus has not gone into details, a smartphone app with a Summon feature suggests it’ll be capable of self-parking, no doubt part of a next-generation semi-autonomous system.
Like Teslas, the LF-Z has a digital key that can be sent to family and friends and Lexus says “it will be possible to provide vehicle-linked services such as package delivery to the car or car sharing, making life with a car even richer”.
Sensors are also designed to stop door dings or opening a door on other vehicles.
There’s also a “next-generation Mark Levinson” sound system; that incorporates active noise cancelling. Given Lexus is already well at the pointy end of car audio with its Mark Levinson systems, we’re looking forward to hearing the latest and greatest.
While Lexus is set to deliver the UX300e within months, the Japanese luxury brand has been slow to the EV market, like its parent company Toyota.
The Lexus rides on an architecture designed from the ground up only as an EV. Best guesses are it is Toyota’s e-TNGA platform that will also underpin the upcoming BZ range of electric vehicles. The first BZ Toyota – a mid-sized SUV – will be unveiled within weeks at the Shanghai motor show.
