FUTURE VISION AT THE JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW

The Lexus booth hosted the public debut of the LF-ZC, a battery electric sedan concept which points towards a new production model scheduled for release in 2026, and the LF-ZL, its vision for a flagship battery electric SUV.

Lexus has been a technology pioneer ever since the brand was founded in 1989 and it has a proud heritage of challenging the conventions of the luxury car market and consistently delivering new value to customers. Now established as a global luxury lifestyle brand, it continues to take up the challenge of creating cars and experiences that exceed customer expectations.

Lexus’ aim is to be a battery electric vehicle brand in Europe by 2030 and globally by 2035. To achieve this goal, it will introduce a completely new modular vehicle structure, adopt cutting-edge new production technologies and totally revise its vehicle software platform.

Both concept vehicles feature a next-generation fully digital intelligent cockpit that provides intuitive, quick access to essential controls in an immersive driving environment. The new Arene OS interface software will enable progressive feature updates to keep pace with the evolution of safety systems and multimedia functions.

DRIVING PERFORMANCE

In its development of next-generation BEVs, Lexus seeks to enhance the pleasure of the driving experience, making the driver feel at one with the vehicle. This includes leveraging the inherent inertia characteristics of BEVs and adding the smooth drive force control of the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system (as featured on the current RZ 450e) and the intuitive, linear feel of a steer-by-wire system.

As the Arene OS evolves, Lexus is also committed to providing a driving experience personalised to each individual with a focus on delivering an ideal balance of acceleration, cornering and braking. The goal is to create the ultimate vehicle for each customer through a synergy of hardware and software. To explore the individual, next-generation features of both the LF-ZC and LF-ZL, read on.

NEW MODULAR STRUCTURE

Lexus’ next generation BEVs will feature a new modular structure which divides the vehicle body into three parts: front, centre and rear. This will be made possible through gigacasting, a process which will provide greater freedom of form. Meanwhile the integration of parts will increase rigidity, contributing to linear, natural vehicle dynamics.

Locating the battery in the centre section ensures there is no structural effect on the front and rear. It also allows for simple integration of advances in battery technology, making future development more agile.

The production process will use a self-driving assembly line, where cars will move autonomously through each stage of the manufacturing process. The vehicle can drive itself, using just its battery, motor, wheels and wireless terminal components. Eliminating conveyor belts from the production line will allow for more flexible factory layouts, reduce the lead-time for mass-production and save on investment costs.