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.

Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen. It’s my pleasure to welcome you to Lexus!

It has been nearly 30 years since we launched our brand. If you think about it, Lexus was a disrupter at that time, demonstrating that we could build innovative vehicles, with great performance and incredible quality. Of course at the centre was and always will be our commitment to providing a personalized and exceptional customer experience.

Over the years we have leveraged our disrupter mindset and our DNA of product innovation by introducing industry-first technologies in many fields such as active safety, car manufacturing and on-board premium features.

Other innovations include bringing the first premium crossover to market with the RX.

And of course our industry leading self-charging hybrid has been nothing short of amazing. Since we introduced this new technology to the premium market back in 2005, we have sold more hybrids than all of our competitors combined.

Today we have the largest range of premium self-charging hybrids on the market with over 1.3 million sold globally, and more than 350 thousand in Europe.

Our disruptor mindset and Lexus DNA have extended to the design of our vehicles. The Lexus signature grille has become a hallmark in the industry and we collected many awards for innovation in design, such as with the recently launched LC.

Now let’s take a look at some of the vehicles we have with us today.

10 years ago we introduced the F marque … combining muscular design, authentic sports performance and cutting-edge technologies. Today we present here in Geneva the car that brings this milestone to life: the RC F 10th anniversary edition. This will be a limited run of only 350 units globally … and European customers can expect to take delivery by the end of the summer.

Now let’s look further into the future. At the recent Detroit Motor show we have revealed our vision of a new type of flagship crossover with the Lexus LF-1 Limitless Concept, and today it’s making its European Premiere here in Geneva.

This amazing vehicle signals our future design direction. It’s combining crossover capabilities with outstanding performance, innovative features and Lexus true quality.

The LF-1 Limitless Concept is like a co-pilot, anticipating the needs of its driver and passengers. For example, it has a virtual assistant with links to navigation, radar and cameras to provide advanced predictive capabilities.

As a further proof of our disruptor mind set and commitment to innovation, this vehicle is capable of hosting any powertrain: self-charging hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric or even fuel cell.

Limitless is more than just the name of the concept vehicle; it’s also how we see our opportunities for the coming years. Already today, 98% of our sales in Western Europe are electrified, and we will continue playing a leading role in the electrification trend in the global automotive industry.

Now let’s turn to more immediate product news.

Our next launch is just around the corner: it’s the RX L, our first seven-seater to be offered in Western Europe. The RX L retains the stylish and elegant design of the RX, while offering even more space and versatility.

This has been achieved by optimizing vehicle packaging with only 110 mm additional length. Third-row passengers also benefit from great comfort and luxury, for example thanks to a 3-zone climate control system. On top, the RX L offers great luggage space flexibility behind the third row.

Ladies and Gentlemen, with close to 75 thousand Lexus sales in 2017 in Europe - the highest ever - we achieved our 4th consecutive year of sales growth. But our ambition is to get to 100 thousand vehicles in Europe by 2020.

One model will strongly contribute to this objective and to the growth of the Lexus brand globally. It’s covered here on my right, it’s one of our most exciting product launches ever.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to introduce now in world premiere the new Lexus UX.

Thank you! This is a new type of crossover and I can tell you, everyone at Lexus was excited to reveal it to the world today. Among us, there’s one person who is probably even more passionate than everyone else.

Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome

Ms Chika Kako, Lexus Executive Vice President and chief engineer of the new UX.

Good morning Lexus Guests. Thank you for joining us on this special occasion.

The Lexus UX introduces a new genre crossover. It is built for modern adventurers who prefer an imaginative, refined lifestyle, and who are on a non-stop adventure to experience it. We call them Creative Urban Explorers.

The aim for the UX was not to conform to the established, solid crossover look, but to achieve a compact design that is both strong and stylish, breaking with the conventions of the segment to deliver something more distinctive and dynamic.

The vehicle’s interior was very important to me, because that is where driver and car connect. The UX cabin is very stylish, with high quality materials designed by the best Japanese craftsmen and an ‘inside-out’ philosophy inspired by a traditional style of Japanese architecture which blurs the boundary between the inside and outside of a house.

The foundation for the vehicle’s dynamic performance focuses on enabling nimble and instant response to driver inputs, while maintaining a sense of stability and safety.

For more on what’s under the UX’s hood, here’s Pascal…

Pascal Ruch

Thank you, Kako-san, for such a great vehicle.

In terms of powertrains, of course our self-charging hybrid technology will play a key role in the UX line-up, especially in Europe! The UX 250h will feature a new-generation 2 litre petrol engine combined with a compact electric motor, or even two in the all-wheel drive version. This powertrain will bring segment-leading fuel efficiency as well as a smooth and dynamic driving experience.

The UX will also be available as UX 200, with a brand new 2 litre petrol engine and transmission, delivering superior energy efficiency and direct acceleration feeling.

So, Ladies and Gentlemen, as you can see, with this UX, the other models here on display and our ongoing commitment to innovative powertrains, Lexus will continue to disrupt the market.

Let me now also introduce the Chief Designer of UX, Mr. Tetsuo Miki and Chief Branding Officer, Mr. Tokuo Fukuichi. And now I would like to invite on stage the president of Lexus International, Mr. Yoshihiro Sawa for the photoshoot.

Thank you very much for your attention. Please take some time to discover UX and the other new models and enjoy your day in Geneva.

Lexus Europe newsroom: http://newsroom.lexus.eu

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, premiered at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, 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.

Limitless in its potential and possibilities, this concept caters to the diverse lifestyles of our customers. Likewise, the possibilities for powertrains are limitless. The LF‑1 concept could be powered by fuel cell, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, or even all-electric. By around 2025, every Lexus model around the world will be available either as a dedicated electrified model, or have an electrified option.

The innovative spirit of the LF‑1 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.

“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.”

It starts with the right proportions. The Lexus LF‑1’s exaggerated dash-to-axle ratio gives it an athletic profile that evokes classic grand touring cars rather than an estate wagon. Combined with a cabin that sits deep within the rear-wheel drive chassis and aggressive 22‑inch wheels barely contained under bulging fenders, the LF‑1 has a powerful stance that conveys its performance intensions at a glance. The low roofline and elevated ride-height further emphasize that this is a crossover designed for performance with practicality.

Like all current Lexus models, the spindle grille on the LF‑1 is a core element to the overall design. On the LF‑1 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 instead uses LED lighting around the grille that greets you on arrival.

“Lexus models such as the RX have helped drive the global popularity of the luxury SUV category. This new crossover concept captures a future that involves a high level of dynamic capability and utility matched by a more exciting, emotional design that we hope challenges expectations in the category,” said Yoshihiro Sawa, President of Lexus International.

In profile, the LF‑1 has a clearly defined flow from front to rear starting with the fender line that extends from the hood all the way to the bottom of the D pillar. That line contrasts with the more complex surfaces below it like the wide, crisply creased front fender that transitions to the smooth, deeply scalloped front door. From there, the bodywork slowly builds back out again to envelope the rear wheel giving the LF‑1 a coke-bottle shape evocative of classic muscle cars.

A split spoiler grabs your eye at the rear of the Lexus LF‑1 roof, but there are interesting curves and details along every inch of the rear fascia. The beautifully sculpted openings at each corner might look like exhaust pipes but they’re actually vents for the air coming past the rear wheels. The shoulders above those wheels provide sturdy mounts for the sculptural taillights that extend well past the metalwork. Above the lights is the huge expanse of glass that extends over the rear seats to offer an uninterrupted view of the scenery thanks to the split spoiler on each side.

Luxurious comfort for every passenger was CALTY’s goal for the cabin. The LF‑1 adheres to the Japanese tradition of omotenashi, or hospitality, welcoming all who enter with equal enthusiasm. The cockpit is designed to allow the driver to concentrate on the task at hand by removing distracting analog knobs and buttons in favor of motion-activated controls and a minimalist display directly ahead. 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.

The interior trim is adorned in a metallic finish that’s a perfect blend of rose-gold and copper similar to the exterior color, but with a satin finish for a warmer feel. Accents around the instrument panel and on the steering wheel further enhance the cockpit feel for the driver. Additional metallic accents throughout the interior contrast with the dark Cocoa Bean leather trim and seats covered in Chiffon White perforated leather.

Lighting also plays a key role in the look and feel of the interior. 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 in a variety of colors that complement the more direct overhead lights.

Technology enhances the luxurious feel of the LF‑1 by expanding the options offered to the driver. It starts with the LF‑1’s Chauffeur mode, which allows for hands-free operation thanks to the vehicle’s by‑wire steering, braking, acceleration, lights and signals. For engaged driving, all powertrain controls and mode displays are on the steering wheel to keep the driver focused on the road. The result is smooth, carefree driving with maximum efficiency and reduced risk of accidents.

There is also a four-dimensional navigation system which builds on traditional systems by adding the element of time to the equation. It acts as a concierge for the occupants by anticipating the needs of the driver and passengers based on the progress, traffic and road conditions along the programmed trip, suggesting fuel stops, rest breaks and restaurants, even offering to make hotel reservations. Navigation and route information are displayed on the in‑dash monitor, the rear seat entertainment screens, or wirelessly connected to passengers’ tablets and smart phones.

Touch-responsive haptic controls easily reached from the steering wheel interface with the 4D navigation system and integrated comfort and entertainment systems. A touch-tracer pad embedded in the leather-covered center console supports character recognition for data entry. An additional haptic controller in the rear seat center console allows passengers to make their own comfort and entertainment choices.

With its innovative technology and captivating styling, the Lexus LF‑1 Limitless concept represents the potential for an amazing experience for future luxury customers.

Specifications

# # #

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.

Now, 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.

Limitless in its potential and possibilities, this concept caters to the diverse lifestyles of our customers. Likewise, the possibilities for powertrains are limitless. The LF‑1 concept could be powered by fuel cell, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, gasoline, or even all-electric. By around 2025, every Lexus model around the world will be available either as a dedicated electrified model, or have an electrified option.

The innovative spirit of the LF‑1 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.

“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.”

It starts with the right proportions. The Lexus LF‑1’s exaggerated dash-to-axle ratio gives it an athletic profile that evokes classic grand touring cars rather than an estate wagon. Combined with a cabin that sits deep within the rear-wheel drive chassis and aggressive 22‑inch wheels barely contained under bulging fenders, the LF‑1 has a powerful stance that conveys its performance intensions at a glance. The low roofline and elevated ride height further emphasize that this is a crossover designed for performance with practicality.

Like all current Lexus models, the spindle grille on the LF‑1 is a core element to the overall design. On the LF‑1 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 instead uses LED lighting around the grille that greets you on arrival.

“Lexus models such as the RX have helped drive the global popularity of the luxury SUV category. This new crossover concept captures a future that involves a high level of dynamic capability and utility matched by a more exciting, emotional design that we hope challenges expectations in the category,” said Yoshihiro Sawa, President of Lexus International.

In profile, the LF‑1 has a clearly defined flow from front to rear starting with the fender line that extends from the hood all the way to the bottom of the D pillar. That line contrasts with the more complex surfaces below it like the wide, crisply creased front fender that transitions to the smooth, deeply scalloped front door. From there, the bodywork slowly builds back out again to envelope the rear wheel giving the LF‑1 a coke-bottle shape evocative of classic muscle cars.

A split spoiler grabs your eye at the rear of the Lexus LF‑1 roof, but there are interesting curves and details along every inch of the rear fascia. The beautifully sculpted openings at each corner might look like exhaust pipes but they’re actually vents for the air coming past the rear wheels. The shoulders above those wheels provide sturdy mounts for the sculptural taillights that extend well past the metalwork. Above the lights is the huge expanse of glass that extends over the rear seats to offer an uninterrupted view of the scenery thanks to the split spoiler on each side.

Luxurious comfort for every passenger was CALTY’s goal for the cabin. The LF‑1 adheres to the Japanese tradition of omotenashi, or hospitality, welcoming all who enter with equal enthusiasm. The cockpit is designed to allow the driver to concentrate on the task at hand by removing distracting analog knobs and buttons in favor of motion-activated controls and a minimalist display directly ahead. 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.

The interior trim is adorned in a metallic finish that’s a perfect blend of rose-gold and copper similar to the exterior color, but with a satin finish for a warmer feel. Accents around the instrument panel and on the steering wheel further enhance the cockpit feel for the driver. Additional metallic accents throughout the interior contrast with the dark Cocoa Bean leather trim and seats covered in Chiffon White perforated leather.

Lighting also plays a key role in the look and feel of the interior. 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 in a variety of colors that complement the more direct overhead lights.

Technology enhances the luxurious feel of the LF‑1 by expanding the options offered to the driver. It starts with the LF‑1’s Chauffeur mode, which allows for hands-free operation thanks to the vehicle’s by‑wire steering, braking, acceleration, lights and signals. For engaged driving, all powertrain controls and mode displays are on the steering wheel to keep the driver focused on the road. The result is smooth, carefree driving with maximum efficiency and reduced risk of accidents.

There is also a four-dimensional navigation system which builds on traditional systems by adding the element of time to the equation. It acts as a concierge for the occupants by anticipating the needs of the driver and passengers based on the progress, traffic and road conditions along the programmed trip, suggesting fuel stops, rest breaks and restaurants, even offering to make hotel reservations. Navigation and route information are displayed on the in‑dash monitor, the rear seat entertainment screens, or wirelessly connected to passengers’ tablets and smart phones.

Touch-responsive haptic controls easily reached from the steering wheel interface with the 4D navigation system and integrated comfort and entertainment systems. A touch-tracer pad embedded in the leather-covered center console supports character recognition for data entry. An additional haptic controller in the rear seat center console allows passengers to make their own comfort and entertainment choices.

With its innovative technology and captivating styling, the Lexus LF‑1 Limitless concept represents the potential for an amazing experience for future luxury customers.

Specifications

Tune in tomorrow for the full reveal at the 2018 North American International Auto Show during the Lexus Press Conference at 8:35 am EST.

Get front-row access via the Livestream at https://livestream.com/LexusInternational/Detroit2018.

Set to debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the flagship crossover will be revealed at the Lexus Press Conference on January 15, 2018 at 8:35 am EST / 14:35 pm CET

Can’t make the show? Get your front row access via the Livestream at: https://livestream.com/LexusInternational/Detroit2018.

The Lexus LF-1 Limitless will be revealed at the Lexus Press Conference taking place at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.