Lexus debuts two electric concept cars with next-gen long range batteries

Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota, has debuted two next-generation electric vehicle (EV) concept cars at the inaugural Japan Mobility Show 2023, the LF-ZC and the LF-ZL.

Both concept cars are on display at the Lexus booth at the Japan Mobility Show and have been designed to offer a glimpse into the brand’s future of electric cars.

Interestingly, even though they are both described as concept cars, Lexus promises that the LF-ZC at least will enter production in 2026.

While the majority of Lexus’ press information around the two cars was based on exterior and interior design language, there were a few hints as to what make the cars actually “go”, including the use of next-generation prismatic high-performance batteries in the LF-ZC.

Lexus believes that these new batteries will be capable of achieving approximately twice the range of conventional EVs.

The LF-ZC will be based around a new battery EV (BEV) architecture that positions front occupants in a low, forward position, and combined with a fully flat and panoramic roof will create a specifically spacious interior.

Functionality will be consolidated in two digital pads: vehicle functions like shifting, ADAS, and drive mode selection will be accessible on the left digital pad, whereas convenience features such as music, climate control, and AI functions have been grouped together on the right digital pad.

Information will be projected onto the front windshield using the same concept as a head’s up display to prioritise an “eyes on the road” principle, while digital mirrors are installed on both sides of the vehicle.

According to Lexus, “By projecting images of the vehicle’s surroundings, shifts in the driver’s gaze, focus, and head movement during driving are minimized, achieving an unobstructed cockpit view that promotes concentration.”

The LF-ZL, on the other hand, is a much more mysterious beast, with Lexus giving away very little for the car it bills as it’s “Flagship BEV Concept with a Vision of the Electrified Future”.

All we know is that the LF-ZL “represents a future Lexus flagship luxury model” and that it too will be based on “next-generation BEV architecture” and will incorporate software advancements from the new Arene OS.

What we do know is that Lexus is aiming to include virtual reality components which will allow drivers to point to objects or places of interest during their journey, to which the car’s display will deliver information along with voice guidance.