Lexus LF-1 Limitless, a concept that speaks for itself…

With this model, Lexus has won a prominent position in the prestige SUV sector. The performance of a crossover combined with the refinement of a sedan…

Unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show, this large SUV, a concept car above the RX, competes directly with the BMW X7, Audi Q7 and Mercedes GLS. 198 cm wide and 501 cm long, its interior boasts avant-garde design and luxurious appointments. With autonomous-driving capability and a navigation system incorporating the time component into the guidance system, the future is well on its way. Imagined by Calty Design Research in southern California, the silhouette “fuses the organic shapes of liquid metal with the sharp edges of a traditional Japanese sword”. Special care has been lavished on the car’s proportions and athletic profile, more evocative of a sports car than a station wagon. Borne along on its 22-inch wheels, the SUV has prominent front wings and LED lighting surrounding the huge trapezoidal-shaped grille. Above the tail lights, a huge expanse of glass extends over the rear passenger seats. Information is displayed on the monitor on the dashboard, but also on screens at the rear, usually dedicated to entertainment, smartphones and tablets. Steering is entrusted to the LF-1’s Chauffeur Mode, ie. hands-free driving. Acceleration, braking, signals and even lighting are decided “by wire”, in other words, by computer with no physical link. Controls and pushbuttons have disappeared so as not to distract the driver. For sporty, hands-on driving, paddles mounted on the steering-wheel control acceleration. As for powertrains, the possibilities are limitless. The LF-1 could be powered by a gasoline, electric, hybrid or plug-in hybrid engine, and/or a fuel cell. No diesel for this vehicle potentially acclaimed by the Chinese and American markets. The height of luxury, the Lexus LF-1 Limitless, which certainly deserves its name, provides a conciergerie service suggesting coffee breaks, fuel stops, restaurants, and even hotel reservations. While the introductions have been made, enthusiasts will have to be patient before obtaining technical and financial details.