Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept unveiled at Detroit show

Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept unveiled at Detroit show

Teased prior to its debut, the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept makes its official debut at in Detroit during the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The concept serves as a preview for a new flagship crossover for the carmaker, one that features electrified powertrains and autonomous driving capabilities.

Lexus says the powertrain possibilities for the LF-1 Limitless are, well, limitless, as it could be powered by fuel cell, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, or even all-electric. This is in line with the company’s ambition of having every Lexus model around the world be available either as a dedicated electrified model, or have an electrified option by 2025.

The crossover also comes with a chauffeur mode that offers hands-free driver assist, and the navigation system introduces an extra dimension – time. As Lexus explains, the system should act as more of concierge instead of just being a map screen. Therefore, it is capable of anticipating the needs of the driver and passengers based a variety of factores (traffic and road conditions), suggesting fuel stops, rest breaks and restaurants and offering to make hotel reservations.

All that fancy tech is packaged in a striking body, which was created at CALTY Design Research in California. The design language you see here is part of a concept that Lexus calls “molten katana,” where organic shapes of liquid metal are in harmony with the sharp edges of a traditional Japanese sword. Dimension wise, the LF-1 measures 5,014 mm long, 1,986 mm wide and 1,605 mm tall, with a 2,974 mm wheelbase.

Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept unveiled at Detroit show

“This is our vision for a new kind of flagship vehicle that embraces crossover capability without giving up the performance and luxury delivered by today’s top sedans. The LF-1 Limitless concept incorporates imaginative technology while creating a strong emotional connection by improving the human experience for the driver and passengers,” said Kevin Hunter, president of CALTY Design Research.

The proportions feature an exaggerated dash-to-axle ratio, resulting in a long bonnet akin to classic grand touring cars. Also visible is a clearly defined line that originates from the front fender, extending towards the bottom of the D-pillar and rear taillights. The line is accompanied by other details like a creased front fender that leads into a scalloped section involving the doors and fenders.

Familiar Lexus cues are included here as well, most notably the large, three-dimensional spindle grille at the front. There’s no chrome used here, as the LF-1 uses the complex-looking LED lighting setup around the grille to “greet” its passengers.

The rear fascia is equally as striking, with a split spoiler on the roof being a highlight on its own. Further downwards, there’s a huge glass panel so passengers can have a better view out, and the taillights are designed to extend past the bodywork. Those openings in the corners of the bumper are actually vents for the air coming past the rear wheels.

The cabin follows the Japanese tradition of omotenashi, or hospitality, welcoming all who enter “with equal enthusiasm.” Luxurious comfort is the goal here, and there’s plenty of it on show inside the LF-1.

A blend of rose gold and copper is used for the finish you see on some of the interior trim, although instead of a metallic finish like on the exterior, a satin one is used to create a warmer ambience. Additional metallic accents throughout the interior contrast with the dark Cocoa Bean leather trim and seats covered in Chiffon White perforated leather.

Complementing the craftsmanship is an array of technologies, starting with an ambient lighting system that initiates a dramatic sequence on when starting the car. The wooden door trim has features tiny holes for light from LEDs to shine through, a la Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner.

No shortage of screens either, as there as in-dash monitor for the driver, rear entertainment screens and several other touch-enabled units scattered throughout the cabin. Lexus decided to remove analogue knobs and buttons in favour of motion-activated controls and touch inputs, as they were deemed too distracting. If you’re looking for the powertrain controls, they have now been shifted to the steering wheel.

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Gerard Lye

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

 

Comments

  • 12yrsold on Jan 16, 2018 at 3:28 pm

    When the 1st Lexus came out, it look handsome & debonair in its skin. I’m talking LX 400. It was competing with the S-class, 7-series & JLR.

    Fast forward to this Lexus LF1. This SUV have too many sharp edges that may look modern in this era but I think it will not aged well compare to the German equivalent. What do U think john ??

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 3
    • P1, Mesidis, Geely, VolvoCar, VolvoTruck, Lotus > all

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 3
    • Johan Abdullah on Jan 16, 2018 at 4:08 pm

      Lexus make beautiful designs. This is because their designers work hard in opis and not goyang kaki.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
    • AutoFrenz (the original) on Jan 16, 2018 at 10:08 pm

      By far the best looking suv in the planet…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • heybadigol (Member) on Jan 16, 2018 at 7:17 pm

    I like the long hood and short overhang look. Sort of like the previous gen Infiniti FX/QX70. Makes em look like they are leaping forward even when standstill.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • i wonder what the car actually looked like before lexus crashed it

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
 

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