By Steve & Tamami Laser
Last year Lexus sold about 305,000 vehicles in the U.S. More than 108,000, or about one-third of the total, were the midsize RX crossover followed by the NX compact crossover with some 59,000 units. The new LF-1 Limitless concept that made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show points the way to a future flagship crossover positioned above the RX.
Lexus says the gorgeous new concept was created at CALTY Design Research in Calif. with the styling theme of “molten katana.” Imagine the fusion of molten metal with the sharp edge of a traditional Japanese sword. It’s a smooth, flowing shape that likely predicts the design direction for future Lexus vehicles.
The long hood with a stretched dash-to-axle ratio signals a rear-drive chassis is employed underneath (unlike the RX that sprang from front-drive hardware). In other words, if the new Lexus LS flagship sedan had a crossover sibling, the LF-1 would be it. The signature Lexus spindle grille on LF-1 features a three-dimensional design surrounded by LED lighting instead of chrome.
The LF-1 adheres to the Japanese tradition of “omotenashi,” or hospitality (customer service) welcoming those who enter (whether it’s a concept vehicle, a car dealer or a department store). In this case, the futuristic cockpit has replaced knobs and switches with motion-activated controls for the driver.
Sporty bucket seats for four passengers are covered with Chiffon White perforated leather while metallic accents around the cabin contrast with dark Cocoa Bean leather trim. Rear seat passengers are treated to the same seats used up front with lots of legroom along with twin displays and individual climate and entertainment system controls.
Lexus loaded LF-1 with high-tech goodies including a “Chauffeur mode” that “allows for hands-free operation thanks to the vehicle’s by-wire steering, braking, acceleration, lights and signals.” Steering-wheel-mounted powertrain controls allow the driver to manually operate the transmission and engage drive modes including “park” and “reverse.”
A four-dimensional navigation system is said to add the element of time, acting as a “concierge for the occupants by anticipating the needs of the driver and passengers based on progress, traffic and road conditions along the programmed trip. Thus, it could suggest things like fuel stops, rest brakes, restaurants or hotel reservations.”
News source and photos courtesy of Lexus Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., and Lexus International
Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com