The 2019 Tokyo Motor Show is in full swing at the moment. This event is a chance for Japanese automakers, in particular, to debut new models on their home soil. The Lexus LF-30 made its public debut at the 46th hosting on the famous show. Click here to see another new Toyota concept car shown at the same event.

Spearheading Lexus Electrified

The Lexus LF-30 embodies the vision of Lexus’ electrification strategy going forward. LF-30 showcases future design language in its futuristic form while weaving in autonomous driving and other new technologies. Performance is rooted in Lexus Electrified components.

Lexus’ signature “spindle” form has been evolved to span the entire vehicle. The window glass, muscular fenders, and wing-shaped headlights form the contours of the iconic spindle. The opacity of the side windows can be adjusted, providing occupants with views of the surrounding scenery during the day and complete privacy at night. The colour of the face of the vehicle and luminescence patterns help identify from the outside whether the vehicle is being operated in its normal mode or in its autonomous driving mode.

LF-30 Electrified employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality). The resulting interior is one that provides comfort and convenience for both driver and passengers. 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.

Electric power

As expected the LF-30 is powered purely by batteries. These power in-wheel electric motors, one per wheel. Low positioning of the battery enables better handling. Independent control of front and rear drive wheels shifts power from fronts-, to rear-wheels, to all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation. Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology regulates the power output from the electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities. Combined power output is rated as 400 kW with 700 N.m of peak torque. The 110 kWh battery can power the Lexus LF-30 from 0-100 km/h in 3,8 seconds. It has a top speed of 200 km/h and on a full charge can cover 500 km.

Using Lexus’ latest ‘Teammate’ autonomous driving technology, the LF-30 Electrified features advanced driving functions such as a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. A self-parking function and a front-door pickup function in which the LF-30 Electrified autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep provide an especially high level of convenience.