Japan Mobility Show 2023: Lexus LF-ZC Concept Previewed

In a much-anticipated reveal at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, Lexus has introduced the world to its LF-ZC Concept, which is poised to redefine the landscape of electric vehicles (EVs). This concept car offers a vision of what the future holds for luxury electric transportation.

The LF-ZC concept is a four-door coupe, with a traditional low roofline and distinct angular features. At the front, a closed-off grille, as is the norm with EVs, is flanked by angular headlamp units, identical to high-performance cars. The fenders rise above the base of the windscreen, adding to the vehicle's aerodynamic stance. The angular lines on the front door soften as they extend over the rear door and into the C-pillars. At the rear, a full-width lightbar element just below the boot lid lip is prominent.

Stepping inside the LF-ZC, one is immediately struck by the futuristic and sophisticated interior. Positioned on either side of the steering wheel are a pair of displays that provide convenient access to a range of functions, from gear selection to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features and drive mode selections. For the passenger, a large screen dominates the view, offering control over music, climate settings, and phone functions. Completing the high-tech interior, a heads-up display enhances the driving experience. Lexus also introduces an AI-enabled voice assistant called the "Buttler.”

The most compelling aspect of the LF-ZC is its pledge to deliver twice the range of existing EVs. Lexus revealed that the concept will employ next-generation prismatic high-performance batteries that are lighter and offers superior energy density, resulting in improved aerodynamics and an extended range for the vehicle. However, the Japanese luxury carmaker did not reveal the exact range on the vehicle.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there, as the LF-ZC features an advanced gigacasting production process, which enabled the Lexus engineers to divide the vehicle body into three distinct parts: front, centre, and rear. This approach streamlined the integration of the battery while ensuring the structural independence of the front and rear sections.

Lexus has announced plans to bring the LF-ZC Concept into production by 2026, as the automaker set its sights on an all-electric vehicle lineup by 2035.