Lexus has given us our first look at its future flagship luxury electric SUV, debuting the LF-ZL concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.
This concept, also known as Lexus Future Zero-emission Luxury, is built on a cutting-edge and bespoke battery electric vehicle (BEV) platform powered by high-performance batteries with a prismatic structure, which, according to Lexus, provides exceptional energy density through a simplified and compact design, thereby promising a significantly improved range compared to current EVs.
Unique design, modular structure
The LF-ZL, although embracing a more conventional SUV facade, distinguishes itself from the current Lexus SUV offerings with a distinctive design and groundbreaking module structure achieved through gigacasting. This technology allows the vehicle to be effectively divided into front, centre, and rear segments. It also enables autonomous movement along the assembly line using only its battery, motor, tires, and wireless controllers.
Future-forward interior
Inside, the LF-ZL features a completely flat floor, contributing to a spacious cabin. The driver's zone is equipped with a yoke steering wheel complemented by a small vertical display on the left, controlling shifting and various driving modes, including human-driven and self-driving options. A corresponding screen to the right of the wheel handles media controls, with a digital instrument cluster positioned at the base of the windshield. The passenger side is dominated by a sprawling touchscreen display housing all entertainment systems and vehicle controls. Small circular screens have been integrated into the centre console.
Although radical and subject to change in a production model, the front seats offer ample legroom, and the cabin's spaciousness extends to the rear, where the LF-ZL Concept is configured as a four-seater. Rear passengers can enjoy reclined lounge-style chairs with leg rests and a discreet bamboo partition between them. The LF-ZL also features an innovative operating system called Arene, which learns and anticipates the driver’s preferences.
The future of Lexus
Despite the enthusiasm, Lexus has kept the production fate of the LF-ZL under wraps, referring to it as a “glimpse into a future where mobility, people, and society are seamlessly connected.”
Unlike its sibling, the LF-ZC, whose production is set for 2026, the LF-ZL remains an intriguing peek into what could be the future flagship luxury model for Lexus.
