Lexus showcased some upcoming electric vehicles and technology at the 2023 Tokyo auto show. One of the main attractions was the Lexus LF-ZC concept, a stylish hatchback set to enter production in 2026.
The LF-ZC concept, short for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst,” Sizing is similar to the current Lexus IS compact sedan. However, its dedicated EV platform provides ample internal space, comparable to that of a larger car.
Mega Casting:
Both Lexus and Toyota will utilize a modular design for their electric vehicles based on this platform. The bodies of these EVs will be formed using mega casting, a technique that eliminates the need to cast numerous small parts and instead focuses on casting a few major parts. Tesla has already employed this method, simplifying production and increasing rigidity. For Lexus EVs, there will be three main parts for the front, center, and rear of the body.
The initial batteries used in these EVs will feature a prismatic structure. This design enhances battery efficiency compared to cylindrical structures, striking a better balance between efficiency and power delivery. In April, Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota’s chief technology officer, mentioned during a presentation that the more efficient batteries are expected to double the range compared to the current EVs offered by Toyota. For instance, the RZ crossover, Lexus’ sole EV in the U.S., currently has a range of only 220 miles.
Aerodynamic designs will also contribute to the increased range of future Lexus EVs. The production version of the LF-ZC is targeting a drag coefficient of less than 0.2 cd, making it one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars on the market. As a result, Lexus EVs will boast distinctive styling compared to new models equipped with internal combustion engines.
Hello Arene:
Toyota introduced its upcoming operating system, Arene, in the LF-ZC concept. Arene will have its own apps, as well as the ability to incorporate third-party apps. Scheduled for launch around 2025, it will also have a version specially developed for Lexus EVs. Lexus mentioned that the system will include an AI that can learn a driver’s driving style and adjust performance characteristics, such as acceleration and handling, accordingly.
Steer-by-wire technology and all-wheel drive with advanced torque-vectoring systems are among the other notable features that will be present in the upcoming Lexus EVs.
Lexus LF-ZC concept
Lexus also presented the LF-ZL, an electric flagship SUV concept, at the Tokyo auto show. It is highly likely that this concept will also serve as the basis for a future production model.
Prior to the release of their next-generation EVs, Lexus plans to introduce more EVs based on their current technology. One of these upcoming models is speculated to be a three row SUV.
By 2030, Lexus aims for zero-emission vehicles, including hydrogen powered vehicles, to make up 100% of its sales in the U.S., Europe, and China. The rest of the world is expected to follow suit by 2035.
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