This story contains independent illustrations made by CarScoops’ artist Josh Byrnes based on the Lexus LF-Z concept. These renderings do not relate to Lexus and are not endorsed by Lexus.
Following much acclaim for its concept debut in March, Lexus LF-Z Electrified looks like a sleek battery-electric vehicle. The mid-sized crossover that is rumored to wear the RZ 450e moniker after Lexus trademarked the name in the U.S., Europe and Australia, spearheads a significant push to electrify the brand’s lineup with many new BEV’s, self-charging hybrids and plug-in hybrid models.
See Also: Lexus LF-Z Electrified Concept Previews Brand’s Styling, Tech And Performance Future
Production LF-Z will be the first Lexus with a dedicated EV platform. This promises improved packaging efficiency and a sleek new design direction. We can expect many other things. Let’s take an illustrated presumption and explore everything else we know to date.
Unique Design
The production version will look stunning, just like the concept. It features futuristic styling, which is sleek, luxurious and well-sculpted. A shark-nosed front ends makes a great Gene Simmons impression. It features a body-colored reverse spindle grille and textured side inlays, which cascade from the LED headslamps.
The side view shows a five-door, low-slung coupe with two-tone roof. A concave character line sweeps up from the front fenders into the rear doors, while pop-out ‘E-latch’ door handles cement the innovative aesthetic. For a bold appearance, the LF-Z has a fully-width LED taillight cluster and an integrated hatchback spoiler.
A Luxurious Outlook
The interiors of Lexus are known for their exceptional craftsmanship. Now, the LF-Z is a stunning example with exquisite detailing and impressive levels in occupant space. While the concept’s yoke steering controls are unlikely to carry over into production, the strategically minimalist styling and human-centered approach to ergonomics will.
Lexus LFZ Electrified Concept will Spawn Production Model within 14 Months
This cabin will host a variety of technology-related goodies. The cabin will include an integrated digital key, wraparound digital instrument cluster and digital key. It also features an augmented reality heads up display (HUD), and an infotainment screen that includes AI-assisted speech commands. The latter can learn preferred routes and commonly frequented places – although, understandably, some may want that feature switched off…
Platform & Performance
The LF-Z, unlike the UX 300e compact crossover which uses an existing hybrid platform and the bZ4X BEV that runs on it, will be the first Lexus to feature a dedicated EV architecture. Shared with Toyota’s bZ4X BEV and its Subaru Solterra twin, the new e-TNGA platform promises a dynamic driving experience due to the underfloor 90kWh lithium-ion battery and its lower center of gravity.
Lexus markets the LF-Z’s powertrain and torque vectoring management under the ‘Direct4’ banner. This system is powered by two electric motors (one for each axle), which can be used to power the rear or front wheels. The system also features advanced steer-by wire technology that changes the steering feel and stability depending on driving speed.
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The concept was powered with 536 HP (400kW) which resulted in an astonishing 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h.) speed of only 3 seconds. While the production Toyota bZ4X is offered with a 201-horsepower single electric motor or a 215-horsepower twin electric motor setup, it’s safe to assume that Lexus will want to stand out with more powerful offerings and justify its premium pricing. The WLTP range is expected to exceed 373 miles (600km), with a DC fast charging capability of up 150kW.
Electrified Rivals & Reveal
Potential battery-electric competitors could include Tesla’s Model Y, Audi Q4 e-tron, Genesis GV60, BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQC, Jaguar I-Pace, Polestar 2 and Cadillac Lyriq.
Lexus confirms that a model very similar to the LF-Z production car will be available in the next few months. This vehicle is expected to go on the market by the end of 2022.
Your thoughts about the LFZ? We’d love to hear your views in the comments below.
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