At the center of the LF-Z Electrified is a four-wheel driving force control technology called Direct 4. This gives the LF-Z Electrified the brand’s Lexus Driving Signature by freely controlling the four wheels independently. Together with the near-instant torque of electric motors and a steer-by-wire system (it doesn’t have a conventional steering shaft), it’ll offer power acceleration, exhilarating cornering performance, and precise driver control.

The LF-Z Electrified previews a dedicated battery electric vehicle platform for Lexus as well. The battery assembly is mounted longitudinally allowing it to increase its rigidity while further lowering the center of gravity. Plus, because it is mounted under the floor of the car, it helps mitigates vibrations and unpleasant noises, too. 

In terms of design, the LF-Z Electrified shows the new direction of Lexus design. It aims for simpler lines, relying on proportions to give it a distinct appearance. The iconic spindle grille evolves into a spindle body giving it a transformative design. At the back, the “L” logo is gone and in its place is the word “Lexus” spelt out in the continuous slender rear combination lamps.

Inside, the LF-Z Electrified features the concept of “Tazuna” or “rein.” This is inspired by the relationship between horse and rider, who communicate through a single rein. With that, the steering wheel, heads-up display, and even various other controls are coordinated in a way that everything can be operated without movement of the driver’s line of sight.

The LF-Z Electrified also debuts Lexus’s version of a digital key allowing owners to operate it using their smartphones. Furthermore, an advanced on-board AI system can learn and adapt to a driver’s habits and preferences.

At this point, the LF-Z Electrified is a flight of fancy for Lexus, but expect bits and pieces of technology and features they’ve shown here to make its way to upcoming models. And fans won’t have to wait long.

By 2025, Lexus plans to introduce 20 new or improved models, including more than 10 electrified models such as BEVs, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), HEVs, 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.

In addition to strengthening and expanding its core sedan models and SUV lineup, Lexus will pursue the possibility of rolling out models such as sports models that continue to provide the fun of driving, a car that redefines the concept of having a chauffeur, and even new genres that have never before existed.

What do you think of Lexus’s future direction?