The Lexus LF-Z Electrified Concept ends complex mesh patterns in their spindle grilles



Lexus begins its journey into fully electrified vehicles with the reveal of the more-conventional looking Lexus LF-Z concept.   

The new LF-Z Electrified concept incorporates driving performance, styling and technologies that Lexus plans to realise by 2025. It will further advance the Lexus Driving Signature, bringing together expertise gained in performance car development with new opportunities offered by electrified powertrains to give the driver exceptional responsiveness and a sense of being fully connected with their car.

The Lexus spindle grille that seems to have become too complicated especially with the mesh pattern has now been evolved into a simple spindle body, sans texture and in body colour.

Key performance targets for the 2.1-tonne LF-Z include 544 hp and 700 Nm of torque to complete the century sprint in three seconds. The company is also aiming for a 600-kilometre range under WLTP test method with a 90 kWh battery pack.

While having dual-motors in EVs is the norm, Lexus is focusing on the controls and delivery of motion of each motor. Dubbed “DIRECT4”, the system precisely controls the delivery of drive torque from the front and rear electric motors and braking force to all four wheels.

The “DIRECT4” system adapts the driving conditions to the driver’s intentions, changing the driving feel and giving the car the best driving posture.

Lexus also announced that it will open a new business and technology base in Shimoyama, Aichi Prefecture in March 2024 to accelerate the planning and development of next-generation products.

The new Lexus IS had its handling honed at the new Shimoyama Technical Centre

More test courses are also currently added together with the existing 5.3 km country route, rising through 75 metres and featuring a range of different bends, making use of the natural contours of the topography. There will be around 10 different test tracks in all, including a high-speed evaluation course and others which replicate different road surfaces from around the world.

President and Chief Branding Officer of Lexus International, Koji Sato, said not one but two new models will be released this year. Something to look forward to then!

By 2025, Lexus plans to introduce 20 new or improved models, including over 10 electrified models such as BEVs, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and HEVs which could also include sports models.

Varying the degree of electrification, in line with the needs of each country and region around the world and based on the concept of offering the right products in the right place at the right time. Lexus also expects the sales ratio of electrified vehicles exceeding that of petrol-engine vehicles.


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