Lexus LF-1 limitless concept. 4 BRAVE DESIGN facts about Lexus' Flagship crossover

Lexus established the luxury crossover segment two decades ago with the global debut of the RX 300 at Detroit. It remains the top-selling luxury crossover despite nearly 50 competitors that have since entered the segment.

The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept introduces a new genre of luxury vehicle: the flagship crossover. Combining high performance with unrestrained luxury, the Lexus LF-1 Limitless is a showcase of technology, innovation and the latest evolution of design at Lexus.

The innovative spirit of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept was created at CALTY Design Research in California. The design language is rooted in the simple yet elegant design concept dubbed “molten katana”. This design visualization fuses the organic shapes of liquid metal with the sharp edges of a traditional Japanese sword. Imagining that shift from a smooth, flowing mass into a solid, chiseled shape formed the basis for the fluid, yet aggressive design of the LF-1 Limitless concept.

BRAVE DESIGN FACT #1

CABIN DESIGN: COMFORT IS KING

“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,” said Kevin Hunter, President, CALTY Design Research Inc. “The LF-1 Limitless concept incorporates imaginative technology while creating a strong emotional connection by improving the human experience for the driver and passengers.”

Maximum comfort for every passenger was CALTY’s goal for the cabin. The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept adheres to the Japanese tradition of omotenashi, or hospitality, welcoming all who enter with equal enthusiasm.

The front passenger space is far more open, with even fewer controls and a wide unobstructed dashboard. Those in back get the same seats as those in front with expansive legroom and individual display screens for adjusting the climate control or entertainment options.

BRAVE DESIGN FACT #2

INTERIOR LIGHT: TWINKLE, TWINKLE, IT'S A STAR!

Lighting plays a key role in the look and feel of the interior of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept. Engaging the START button initiates a dramatic lighting sequence of ambient light based on which of the several available driving modes is engaged.

For a more subtle effect, the wooden door trim has tiny perforations that allow indirect light from miniature LEDs to shine and twinkle in a variety of colors. This lighting creates beautiful movement in the interior that complement the more direct overhead lights.

BRAVE DESIGN FACT #3

SPINDLE GRILLE: LET ME SEE YOUR GRILLE!

Like all current Lexus models, the spindle grille on the LF-1 Limitless concept is a core element to the overall design. On the LF-1 Limitless concept it’s been taken even further, with details that suggest the start of the spindle form at the rear of the vehicle that then continues forward toward the nose.

The grille itself features a three-dimensional design with colors developed in house by CALTY. Ridges radiating away from the central emblem suggest magnetism guiding metal filings into shape. There is no chrome, as the LF-1 Limitless concept instead uses LED lighting around the grille that greets you on arrival.

BRAVE DESIGN FACT #4

GLASS SURFACE DESIGN: THE ROOF TO INSPIRE  

The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept takes the popular crossover genre and heightened sense of performance while challenging traditional crossover SUV proportions and styling. The concept’s long hood and powerful stance give it the look of a performance sedan while maintaining the higher ride height and versatile functionality that have made crossovers the preferred choice for so many of today’s customers.

Using a large glass surface as the roof, helps enhance the appeal of this concept and draws attention to the interior design. The interior involves bright, modern metallic finishes and LED lighting treatments to create an enticing cabin. Gazing through the large glass roof reveals a realm of imagination and inspiration that is driving the future of the luxury crossover category. As the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept has not been confirmed for future production development, the use of glass on this model is entirely exploratory.