LF-ZC Concept is a sneak peek at Lexus' next-gen EV luxury sedan
The LF-ZC Concept by Lexus could be gunning against the BMW i4
The 2023 Japan Mobility Show saw manufacturers reveal futuristic-looking concepts that preview what's to come in the next several years. From sleek jet-like EVs to go-anywhere vehicles powered solely by electricity and sustainable fuels, Japanese brands highlighted the newest and latest technologies that are set to become reality in the near future.
Also present during the show was Lexus which revealed two EV concepts. Let's start with the LF-ZC which actually stands for “Lexus Future Zero-Emission Catalyst”. This stylish four-door EV concept from the Japanese automaker is a sneak peek of an upcoming battery electric vehicle (BEV) from the luxury brand.
Measuring 4750mm long, 1880mm wide, 1390mm tall, and having a 2890mm wheelbase, the LF-ZC is almost similar in size to the Lexus IS. But instead of having a V6 or electrified inline-four powering the vehicle, the LF-ZC will be powered by a low-profile battery that supplies energy to electric motors complete with a Direct4 AWD system. Exact performance figures have yet to be revealed but Lexus says the concept is set to deliver exhilarating dynamics.
Style-wise, the LF-ZC appears to combine the looks of a sedan and a coupe thanks to its rakish windshield, sloping roofline, and liftback-like rear. Combined with its massive alloy wheels, sharp LED headlights & taillights, and a drag coefficient of only 0.2 Cd, the LF-ZC concept is both sleek and aerodynamic.
Hop inside and the concept invites occupants into a high-tech cocoon complete with a panoramic glass roof that lets more light into the cabin. On the dashboard are a plethora of digital displays along with a steering yoke. Place in front of the passenger is the touchscreen media system while the driver gets a multi-info display. There's also a small touchpad to the left of the driver which acts as the vehicle's gear selector.
Since the concept is aimed at being sustainable, the interior makes generous use of bamboo. Not only is it more eco-friendly to use, but bamboo grows at a much faster rate compared to wood gathered from trees. More importantly, bamboo has significant CO2 absorption capacity – leading to Lexus using bamboo fibers, bamboo fabrics, and bamboo thread in the LF-CZ concept.
Also worth mentioning about the LF-CZ is its unique production assembly. According to Lexus, the LF-CZ does away with traditional factory line assembling thanks to a new EV architecture that features a modular structure formed through gigacasting.
The body itself is split into three parts; front, center, and rear. This unique setup allows for a state-of-the-art self-driving assembly line where the car can autonomously drive itself with just the battery, motor, and tires via the wireless terminals. This negates the need for a conveyor-style assembly line which will simplify production processes.
Once the LF-ZC concept becomes a reality, this particular Lexus will likely go up against the likes of the BMW i4. In fact, the automaker has already announced that come 2026, the LF-ZC concept will be launched in production form. Let's hope the production model will be as sleek as the concept version.
