On the 2023 Tokyo auto present, Lexus unveiled the LF-ZL idea previewing a future flagship electrical SUV.

The idea, the identify of which stands for “Lexus Future Zero-emission Luxurious,” measures 208.6 inches lengthy, or about eight inches longer than the present Lexus LX SUV and two inches longer than the LS flagship sedan. An EV-specific platform permits for better packaging flexibility and helps maximize inside area inside that beneficiant footprint.

The LF-ZL and different next-generation Lexus EVs could have a modular construction composed of three massive “gigacastings” comprising the entrance, heart, and rear of the car construction. Pioneered by Tesla, this course of eliminates some smaller elements that may ordinarily be welded collectively to kind a fundamental car construction, simplifying the manufacturing course of and rising rigidity.

Lexus LF-ZL idea

Future Lexus EVs may also characteristic new battery tech, together with prismatic cells that may supply increased vitality density and decrease weight to assist improve vary, the automaker claims. The bodily form of the cells may also permit for thinner battery packs, permitting for sleeker styling that may assist enhance aerodynamics, in response to Lexus.

One other new expertise characteristic showing within the LF-ZL idea is Lexus father or mother Toyota’s new working system, often called Arene. It will likely be capable of course of knowledge from the automotive’s onboard sensors and the encircling setting, permitting the automotive to, for instance, robotically deliver up instructions when a driver or passenger identifies a focal point. Lexus additionally talked about the “utilization of huge knowledge” to handle the charging course of, serving to to combine EVs with the grid.

The LF-ZL was unveiled alongside the Lexus LF-ZC idea, a glossy hatch that Lexus mentioned will enter manufacturing in 2026. The automaker did not focus on a timeline for the launch of the LF-ZL, nevertheless.

Lexus LF-ZL idea

Earlier than the arrival of those next-generation fashions, Lexus will introduce extra EVs primarily based on its present expertise, possible together with a three-row SUV. For now, Lexus’ sole EV for the U.S. market is the RZ crossover. The automaker additionally sells an electrical model of the UX crossover in some markets.

Lexus finally plans to promote solely zero-emission automobiles—together with each battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell fashions—within the U.S., China, and Europe by 2030, and the remainder of the world by 2035.