During the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, Lexus showcased the LF-ZL, a concept vehicle that signals the brand’s intent to introduce a premium electric SUV in the future.
The LF-ZL concept—whose acronym stands for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Luxury”—has dimensions measuring 208.6 inches in length. This makes it approximately eight inches longer than Lexus’s existing LX SUV and two inches longer than the LS, its current flagship sedan. Utilizing a platform engineered specifically for electric vehicles, the LF-ZL concept optimizes packaging capabilities and maximizes interior space within its expansive dimensions.
The construction of the LF-ZL, as well as upcoming Lexus electric models, will leverage a modular architecture consisting of three large “gigacastings” that make up the vehicle’s front, center, and rear. This manufacturing technique, originally popularized by Tesla, eliminates the need for multiple smaller components traditionally welded together. The result is a streamlined production process and an increase in structural rigidity.
Lexus LF-ZL Concept
Future electric vehicles from Lexus will employ cutting-edge battery technologies, including prismatic cells. These cells are claimed to offer enhanced energy density and reduced weight, thereby extending driving range. Moreover, the specific form factor of these cells will facilitate slimmer battery packs, making it possible to achieve more aerodynamic vehicle designs, Lexus states.
The LF-ZL concept incorporates an additional innovation: Toyota’s new operating system called Arene. This system can analyze data from both the vehicle’s internal sensors and its external surroundings. For instance, it can automatically generate navigation directions when either the driver or a passenger specifies a location of interest. Furthermore, Lexus cited the “use of big data” to optimize the vehicle’s charging strategy, thus enabling more efficient interaction with electrical grids.
Unveiled alongside the LF-ZL was the Lexus LF-ZC concept, a stylish hatchback slated for production in 2026. Although Lexus refrained from announcing a specific timeline for the LF-ZL, they did provide some context about their broader electrification strategy.
Lexus LF-ZL Concept
Before these next-generation electric models make their debut, Lexus intends to roll out additional electric vehicles based on its existing technology. Among these will likely be a three-row SUV. At present, the brand’s only electric offering for the U.S. market is the RZ crossover, although an electric UX crossover is available in certain markets.
Looking ahead, Lexus aims to transition completely to zero-emission vehicles in the U.S., China, and Europe by the year 2030, and globally by 2035. This will encompass both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lexus LF-ZL concept
What is the Lexus LF-ZL concept?
The Lexus LF-ZL is a concept vehicle unveiled at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, intended to preview Lexus’s future flagship electric SUV. The acronym LF-ZL stands for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Luxury.”
What are the dimensions of the LF-ZL concept?
The LF-ZL measures 208.6 inches in length, making it approximately eight inches longer than the current Lexus LX SUV and two inches longer than the LS, Lexus’s existing flagship sedan.
What is unique about the LF-ZL’s construction?
The vehicle employs a modular architecture consisting of three large “gigacastings” that make up the front, center, and rear of the vehicle. This technique, initially popularized by Tesla, streamlines the production process and enhances structural rigidity.
What kind of battery technology does the LF-ZL feature?
The LF-ZL will use advanced prismatic cells, which are claimed to offer higher energy density and lower weight compared to traditional batteries. This technology aims to extend the driving range of the vehicle.
What is the Arene operating system?
Arene is Toyota’s new operating system integrated into the LF-ZL concept. It can process data from the vehicle’s onboard sensors and external environment, offering features like automatic navigation based on points of interest.
What other electric vehicles does Lexus plan to introduce?
Before the arrival of next-generation models like the LF-ZL, Lexus intends to launch more electric vehicles based on its current technology, including a likely three-row SUV.
What is Lexus’s broader electrification strategy?
Lexus aims to sell only zero-emission vehicles, including both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell models, in the U.S., China, and Europe by 2030 and globally by 2035.
Was the LF-ZL the only concept vehicle unveiled by Lexus at the Tokyo Motor Show?
No, the LF-ZL was showcased alongside another concept vehicle, the LF-ZC, a sleek hatchback that Lexus plans to put into production in 2026.
What is the current Lexus electric offering in the U.S. market?
As of now, Lexus’s sole electric offering for the U.S. market is the RZ crossover. They also offer an electric version of the UX crossover in select markets.
Does the LF-ZL concept have a launch timeline?
Lexus has not specified a launch timeline for the LF-ZL as of the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show.
More about Lexus LF-ZL concept
- 2023 Tokyo Motor Show
- Lexus Official Website
- Tesla Gigacasting Technology
- Prismatic Cell Technology Overview
- Toyota’s Arene Operating System
- Lexus Electrification Strategy
- Current Lexus Electric Models
- Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Technology
6 comments
Wow, Lexus really stepping up their game with the LF-ZL. Those dimensions are huge, but the modular architecture sounds like a game changer. Tesla’s influence maybe?
Arene OS by Toyota? Sounds intriguing, but what else can it do? Just directions and big data for charging seems like the tip of the iceberg.
prismatic cells for the battery tech? That’s promising for sure. Wonder how far it’ll actually go on a single charge tho.
lexus going full electric and hydrogen by 2030? this could shake up the luxury car market big time.
Finally, some serious commitment from Lexus on zero-emissions. 2030’s not far off. they better move fast.
LF-ZC in production by 2026 and nothing on LF-ZL yet? cmon Lexus, spill the beans already.