Lexus’ press conference at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 focused on the LF-ZC production process, without giving away too many details about the car’s specifications – Photo: Lexus
LF-ZC stands for Lexus Future Zero-Emission Catalyst, which is basically the model for Lexus’ future zero-emission vehicle model.
The Lexus LF-ZC Concept utilizes a new electric vehicle architecture through Gigacasting manufacturing, a monolithic casting technology pioneered by Tesla.
Basically, the LF-ZC production process is divided into 3 main parts: front, center and back. Lexus says the LF-ZC structure allows the front and rear of the car to be virtually independent, so new batteries and innovations can be quickly integrated.
The commercial version of the Lexus LF-ZC Concept will be produced on a modern “self-driving assembly line”, where assembled cars can automatically move to the next step. This allows the car to drive itself with only the battery, motor, tires and wireless front-end units in the front, center and rear sections.
This also eliminates the need for conveyors, reducing production costs and time.
In addition to the production improvements, the Lexus LF-ZC Concept also impresses with its modern equipment and features.
What’s in the Lexus LF-ZC Concept?
The dimensions of the Lexus LF-ZC Concept are similar to the BMW i4 and Tesla Model 3, with parameters 4,750 x 1,880 x 1,390 (mm) and wheelbase 2,890 mm – Photo: Autoblog
Lexus aims for a drag coefficient of less than 0.2. At that time, the LF-ZC would become one of the cars with the best aerodynamics – Photo: Autoblog
To achieve this the size of the vehicle plays an important role. The Lexus LF-ZC concept is a combination of sedan and estate (rather than an extended sedan), somewhat similar to the Kia EV6, but sits lower and has none of the traditional crossover characteristics. Using the provocative Simplicity design language, the car features a low hood and long wings that taper the cabin at the rear – Photo: Autoblog
The battery used has a prismatic structure, which according to the company will increase the operating range while reducing weight – which is a major negative point of electric vehicles. Although no specific numbers have been disclosed, Lexus says the LF-ZC can achieve twice the range of a conventional electric car – Photo: Autoblog
Lexus has not provided detailed operating specifications, but has revealed that the car uses the company’s Direct4 4-wheel drive system and electronic steering system (steer-by-wire), similar to the RZ. The technology promises to deliver “compelling and exciting dynamics, where driver and car become one” – Photo: Autoblog
The cabin space of the Lexus LF-ZC concept is quite large. The front seats are low, contrasted by the panoramic windshield (sliding glass up to the roof), which adds to the feeling of luxury. Some notable features include an information display on the windshield and technical mirrors. The numbers are installed on both sides of the car – Photo: Lexus
The styling of the steering wheel is futuristic. Controls for vehicle functions such as gear shifting, ADAS and drive mode selection are all located in the left digital panel. The entertainment screen on the right controls the speakers, air conditioning and AI functions. The number of switches on the steering wheel has been kept to a minimum to reduce weight and complexity. In front of the passenger seat is a large touch screen with entertainment functions. The front spec is very similar to the Toyota FT-SE concept that was introduced earlier – Photo: Lexus
The vehicle is equipped with “Eren OS” interface software with advanced feature updates, including advanced safety and multimedia technologies in line with evolving trends. In addition, the car also has a new generation voice recognition system that is expected to be called “Lexus AI Butler”. The system will provide route and mode recommendations tailored to the driver’s preferences by considering their daily activity patterns and emotional state – Photo: Lexus
Most of the cabins are made of bamboo. Bamboo was chosen as the featured material to reflect its commitment to effectively recycling valuable environmental resources. Decorative elements combining bamboo fiber and textiles will reveal beautiful effects under the influence of light – Photo: Lexus
(TagstoTranslate)Lexus(T)Electric Car Lexus(T)Japan Mobility Show 2023(T)New Car News
