Lexus’s Electric Future: Sneak Peek at the Aggressive LF-ZC Concept Coming in 2026

Lexus to Launch EV in 2026
Concept Model Based on Bold Design
Aggressive Design Catches the Eye

Lexus aims to achieve full electrification by 2030. As the global automotive market rapidly shifts towards electric vehicles (EVs), Japanese brands known for their hybrid expertise have faced criticism for lagging behind.

In response to this shift, Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, has taken a proactive step. In 2023, the brand introduced a concept model with plans to launch a production EV by 2026. This move highlights Lexus’s commitment to catching up in the evolving EV landscape.

“We wanted a more expressive vehicle”
Presenting the future design vision with the LF-ZC

At the Japan Mobility Show held in Tokyo in 2023, Lexus unveiled the LF-ZC and LF-ZL concepts, which present the future design of EVs. The LF-ZC, slated for mass production in 2026, represents Lexus’s commitment to creating a distinctive and dynamic EV. Simon Humphries, head of Lexus design and brand, emphasized, “We wanted to give Lexus its own personality and create a more expressive vehicle.”

The LF-ZC, which will be the basis for the mass-produced model, features a bold and aggressive design that is hard to find. Its front fascia is composed of only body panels with sharp lines and no other elements. Since the front comprises only a minimum of elements, some black high-gloss was applied to add visual elements.

Aerodynamic-focused design
Targeting drag line of less than 0.2cd

The LF-ZC features a sporty design with sharply angled headlamps extending towards the front fender. The bonnet boasts voluminous lines that transition smoothly into a streamlined shape, while the roofline flows seamlessly from the gently rising A-pillar to the rear in a fastback silhouette.

This design allows for an expansive front glass area. Lexus emphasizes that this bold exterior represents a forward-looking design philosophy and aims to enhance aerodynamics. The company targets a drag coefficient of less than 0.2cd for this latest EV model.

By applying a slim battery module, the center of gravity has been extremely low

When viewed from the side, it features very short front and rear overhangs, as no engine exists. The body ratio with a sense of length creates a unique feel. Also, despite being an EV, the height has been extremely low, and it is said that this has improved handling and responsiveness by lowering the center of gravity.

To achieve this, Lexus said it used a very slim battery module that prevents the battery installed in the bottom of the vehicle from touching the ground. As the transition to electrification accelerates and each automaker presents various future designs and visions, attention is being paid to what Lexus’ upcoming EV will look like.