This is the Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept, created
by the Japanese car manufacturer as a vision for an upcoming generation of
electrified vehicles. It will premiere at this week’s Tokyo Motor Show.
Immediately distinguishing the LF-30 Electrified
Concept from most other EVs, whether they are production models or concepts, is
the fact that it features in-wheel electric motors at all four corners to
deliver a combined 536 hp. The use of in-wheel electric motors provides superb
handling characteristics aided by Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology
that regulates the driver-power output from the high-power electric motors. The
car can also be driven in front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and rear-wheel
drive modes depending on the driving conditions.
The Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept imagines a world
where chunky charging cables are no longer required for EVs as it features
advanced wireless charging technology. Another technology found is an advanced
autonomous driving system that includes a self-parking function and a
front-door pickup function similar to Tesla’s Summon system.
Because the concept features small in-wheel electric
motors, designers have a great deal of freedom with the car’s overall shape. As
such, there is a glass canopy that stretches from over the front wheels all the
way back to the rear decklid. Lexus has also altered the look of its spindle
grille while fashioning a set of large wheel arches.
Move to the inside and things get even more
impressive. The driver and front passenger sit in futuristic-looking seats
designed to mimic the openness of a first-class seat on an airliner. These
seats also include artificial muscle technology to mold to the occupant. An audio
system from Mark Levinson is also featured.
