TOKYO: Lexus has unveiled its LF-30 Electrified Concept at the this year’s 46th Tokyo Motor Show as part of its “Lexus Electrified” vision that aims for a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment.
Powered by in-wheel electric motors, the LF-30’s form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the vehicle body streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface.
At 2,400kg, the LF-30 has a 3,600mm wheelbase for its 5,090mm-long, 1,995mm-wide and 1,600mm-tall body.
A 110kWh battery powers the electric motors that provide 536hp (400kW) and 700Nm of instant power – allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 3.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 200kph.
The familiar spindle grille design has undergone a transformation and now widens to the front sides of the car.
Entry into the car is easy, thanks to two large gullwing-type doors and the absence of B-pillars.
Its four wheels get in-wheel motors and this will allow more cabin space for driver and passengers.
The car also adopts next-generation autonomous driving and augmented reality technology.
The steering wheel is the steer-by-wire-type and can be drawn into the dashboard when in autonomous cruising mode.
With steer-by-wire technology and independently powered wheels, the LF-30 Electrified claims better driving dynamics and agility compared with other conventional drivetrain vehicles.
In addition, the steering wheels is not the usual round-type but shaped like handles to give a feel like reins on a horse or ‘Tazuna.’
The LF-30 Electrified will feature an Advance Posture Control for more ride comfort, control and confidence.
The concept also gets an autonomous Lexus Airporter drone that can transport baggage from a house’s doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.
Charging is of the wireless-type to simplify daily charging.
Featuring the latest concepts and automotive technologies from Japan, North America and Europe, the show is held at Tokyo Big Sight from Oct 25 to Nov 4.
A Mark Levinson audio system creates a next-generation listening environment.
Miniature speakers provide ideal acoustic spaces for music listening pleasure for the driver and each passenger, with speakers built into the headrests not only provide an optimal audio environment but also a noise-cancelling feature to enhanced quietness.
A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture-controlled “SkyGate” display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favourite videos, and even navigation.
In addition to its unique design, the cabin also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden.
Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibres for use in creating the pleated door trim.
The in-wheel electric motors for each of the vehicle’s four wheels and low positioning of the battery enable better handling of inertia and high-level driving performance.
Autonomous driving technologies and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to the year 2030 and the widely expanded value that vehicles can offer.
Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology regulates the drive-power output from high-torque electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities.
Completely independent control of the front and rear drive wheels allows the appropriate provision of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation.
Compact and lightweight drive-power units expand freedom in vehicle packaging and are used to enable the driver to enjoy ideal driving, regardless of the road surface or driving conditions.
Positioning Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology as a core element of the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, Lexus intends to widely apply this technology throughout its lineup of electrified vehicles.
The steer-by-wire system eliminates a mechanical connection to allow more flexible turning control depending on driving conditions and more precise steering feel aligned with the driver’s intention.
It also contributes to a greater sense of openness by allowing the steering controller can be shifted forward and out of the way during autonomous driving.
As a next-generation BEV, the LF-30 uses wireless charging technology to simplify daily charging, and AI-based energy management to enable the optimal distribution of electric power to both the vehicle and the home, and charging control coordinated with the user’s daily schedule.
Onboard AI distinguishes the voices of vehicle occupants and uses personalized information stored on the driver’s control key – serving as a partner.
This facilitates the adjustment of elements of the interior environment, such as air temperature and audio, and the setting of navigation routes and destinations, while also making proposals for activities after arrival.
Also, it understands the driver’s preferences and helps them control the suspension and powertrain settings in real-time according to the driving scene.
The LF-30 also carries the ‘Lexus Airporter’ drone-technology support vehicle which uses autonomous control.
The Lexus Airporter is capable of such tasks as independently transporting baggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.
Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 also features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and Guardian mode.
Furthermore, a self-parking function and a front-door pickup function is available – allowing it to autonomously move from driveway to doorstep.
Keyword: Tokyo Motor Show 2019: Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept