LEXUS is showing off this new flagship concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS 2018) in Detroit. The ‘LF-1 limitless’ luxury crossover is a thumbnail for the future of the company. Hands-free steering, LEDs, a ‘4D’ nav-system that anticipates the needs based on past trips and routines, an in-dash monitor, touchpad center console — technologically, the concept is keeping up with its competitors. In terms of design, the LF-1 may be leading the pack.

You’re looking at ‘Molten Katana,’ molten as in liquid metal, Katana as in a fine Japanese sword: the inspirations for the concept’s design. It is as chiseled as it is smooth, fluid, yet aggressive, carefully proportioned with an exaggerated dash-to-axle ratio, athletic in profile, with 22-in wheels and bulging fenders that hide a low-sitting cabin to zen-out in; it’s free like water and powered by a hidden fire.

Around 2025, LEXUS claims that all of their vehicles will be electric, or, at the very least have an electrified option. ‘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. ‘The LF-1 limitless concept incorporates imaginative technology while creating a strong emotional connection by improving the human experience for the driver and passengers.’


















- DesignBloom