Lexus has unveiled the LS+ Concept, which serves as a glimpse into the future of its LS flagship sedan. This concept showcases a more advanced version of the already modern LS, featuring one of the boldest expressions of the brand’s signature predator-grille front.
According to Lexus, this vehicle previews the technology expected in the 2020 LS and signals a design trend that will influence all Lexus models across various price ranges moving forward. This design strategy appears to emphasize the brand’s famously debated front ends and distinctive checkmark-shaped headlights. At the rear, Lexus seems to be following a trend set by Volkswagen Group, incorporating a long, continuous horizontal taillight, similar to those found on the recently refreshed Porsche Cayenne and Audi A7. Is the trend of long single taillights the hottest in automotive design for 2017? It looks that way.
Beneath the surface, Lexus is promoting “advanced, AI-backed, automated driving” capabilities. The LS+ is reportedly able to autonomously drive from on-ramp to off-ramp, merging with traffic and changing lanes without human intervention. Furthermore, the Lexus concept connects to a data center, allowing it to update its software, introduce new features over time, and continually enhance its self-driving functions by learning the routes it navigates.
While Lexus promises that these innovations will be available in just three years, we remain skeptical until we see it materialize.
.
