Lexus LF-30 Electrified concept is our vision of a future EV

In a continued effort to deliver innovative and amazing experiences, we would like to present Lexus Electrified, our vision for a future generation of electrified vehicles. After its world premiere at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the Lexus LF-30 Electrified concept made its European debut at the Kenshiki Forum in Amsterdam.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified: highlights

Embodying the Lexus vision of electrification
The LF-30 Electrified concept embodies the Lexus Electrified vision. Its exterior projects the advanced, futuristic look expected of a battery electric vehicle (BEV), while the interior accommodates autonomous driving and other new technologies.

Lexus Electrified components provide the foundation for the vehicle’s performance, with new technology adding to the company’s established leadership in hybrid vehicle systems. Precise control of the electric motors enable instantaneous adjustments to be made to the vehicle’s posture, something that isn’t possible with conventional vehicles.

Futuristic exterior
The vehicle’s form expresses the energy that streams from the wheels. As a BEV, the LF-30 Electrified does not have a bonnet, so the signature spindle shape has evolved to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which extends continuously from front to rear, the muscular wings and the wing-shaped headlights all form the contours of the Lexus spindle.

The body has an elegant, flowing front that transitions into a linear, sharp rear. Wing-shaped headlights combine with the sharpness of the rear lights and side intakes to achieve excellent aerodynamics and cooling performance, fusing style and function. The opacity of the side windows can be adjusted, so occupants can enjoy the view out or opt for privacy.

The colour of the vehicle’s front face and luminescent patterns signal whether the car is operating in normal or autonomous driving modes, demonstrating our desire to combine styling with functionality. The exterior finish is created using a metal-infused coating, giving a unique quality with a touch of blue-green.

Innovative interior
Taking our human-centred philosophy to a higher level, the cockpit design is based on a new Lexus concept, Tazuna. Inspired by the Japanese word for the use of a single rein to create mutual understanding between horse and rider, there is a high degree of co-ordination between switches on the steering controller and head-up display. This allows the driver to operate the navigation, audio system and driving mode selection using next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control, without having to shift their vision or use manual switches. Vehicle information is then presented using augmented reality (AR).

The front passenger seat has a layout like that of a first class aeroplane seat, while the interior conveys a sense of being both open and enveloping. All controls are within comfortable reach, and there is a large gesture control display for the passenger seat.

The rear seats use artificial muscle technology to mould their form to the occupant in different reclining modes. A Mark Levinson audio system creates a next-generation listening environment in which precise speaker control establishes ideal acoustic listening spaces for the driver and each passenger. Speakers are built into the headrests and have a noise-cancelling feature that contributes to enhanced cabin quietness.

A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control operation and a gesture-controlled display window that uses AR to present media and information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, favourite videos and navigation information.

The interior also signals the future direction of luxury by using sustainable materials. Yakisugi, a traditional Japanese charred cedar, is used in the floor and steering controller, while recycled metal is processed into fibres to create the pleated door trim.

Vehicle dynamics
The LF-30 Electrified employs numerous state-of-the-art technologies to achieve a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment. The in-wheel electric motors in each of the four wheels and positioning of the battery low in the vehicle help secure better inertia handling and high-level driving performance. Autonomous driving and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to 2030 and the greatly expanded value vehicles will be able to offer.

Advanced control technology regulates drive power from the electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in line with human sensibilities. Fully independent control of the front and rear wheels allows for front, rear and all-wheel drive according to driving conditions. The compact and lightweight drive units give greater freedom in vehicle packaging and help the driver enjoy time at the wheel regardless of the road surface or conditions.

A steer-by-wire system eliminates the need for a mechanical connection, allowing flexible turning control and a steering feel that is more precise and aligned with the driver’s intentions. The steering controller can be shifted forwards out of the way during autonomous driving, adding to the open feel of the interior.

Wireless technology is adopted to simplify charging, with AI-based energy management for optimal distribution of electric power to both the vehicle and home, with charging control co-ordinated with the user’s daily schedule.

Onboard AI recognises the voices of different vehicle occupants and uses personalised information stored on the driver’s control key to serve as a partner. It can adjust functions such as air temperature, audio and navigation routes and destinations, and suggest activities when the journey is completed. It also recognises the driver’s preferences, helping them control the suspension and powertrain settings, in real-time according to driving conditions.

The LF-30 Electrified also carries the Lexus Airporter drone support vehicle. Using autonomous control, the Lexus Airporter can carry out tasks such as moving luggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s load space.

The concept features advanced driving support functions – Chauffeur Mode and Guardian Mode – based on the latest Lexus Teammate autonomous driving technology. Occupants can enjoy comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed. Self-parking and a front door pick-up function, in which the LF-30 Electrified autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep, provide an especially high level of convenience.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified: specifications

Read more: History of Lexus Future concept cars