Lexus' Vision for the Future: Sustainable Bamboo Designs
Recent studies show that the average person spends more than four and a half years of their lives in vehicles.
This figure causes a shift that is driving innovations in design, if people have to spend to be in vehicles that long then they might as well do it aesthetically and as sustainably as possible.
Lexus is at the forefront of these innovations, integrating sustainability, aesthetics and functionality to redefine automotive designs with bamboo, adapting to a rapidly evolving world.
Inspiring the automotive world
At the forefront of Lexus' sustainable design philosophy is Sellene Lee, Chief Designer at CALTY Design Research studio – finding inspiration in fashion, home interiors and lifestyle.
Sellene aligns her inspirations with the idea that cars are more than just vehicles, they’re personal spaces.
The chief designer notes a growing emphasis on "sensorial design", where emotional and sensory connections take precedence, incorporating that into Lexus’ designs.
Sellene comments why she is inspired by incorporating lifestyle into vehicle designs: “Let’s imagine you go to a really nice hotel, even if it doesn’t have extravagant or ornate decorations.
“It makes you feel good, but you don’t know why, that’s what great colour material finish (CMF) design does.”
This approach now extends to digital elements, integrating CMF with UX design to create cohesive, tactile experiences.
The sustainable bamboo challenge
Although an innovative idea, sustainability poses a challenge for CMF designers, especially when Lexus are attempting to integrate bamboo into their vehicles.
Sellene explains: “There was a time when we thought everyone would appreciate sustainable materials for their credentials.
“Customers need to love them at first impression. I believe the luxury market appreciates craftsmanship more as it becomes more high-end”
Lexus’ design philosophy is deeply rooted in Omotenashi, the Japanese principle of thoughtful consideration, linking closely to its sustainability-conscious designs.
For the LF-ZC (Future Zero-Emission Catalyst) concept car, Lexus will use innovative sustainable materials like:
- Bamboo fiber with copper yarn – for interactive surfaces
- Bamboo chips – mixed with recycled carbon
- Kenaf plants – for door trims
- Sugarcane-based plastic – trunk luggage lining
Heather Updegraff, Lexus’ General Manager of International Strategic Communications, highlights: “We are a very human-centric brand, and we put people at the center of everything we do.
“While some companies have said, ‘We’re going 100% battery electric,’ that is not our approach. We’re exploring and investing in the future, which won’t look like our world today.”
Lexus aims to adapt to varying infrastructure possibilities worldwide, investing in technologies like flying vehicles and car-sharing programs to reduce emissions and expand sustainable mobility options.
About Lexus’ sustainability
Lexus has taken significant steps to integrate sustainability into its operations and design, implementing eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
The vehicle company has already created "green" factories with zero discharge, reducing waste and increasing recycling in offices, factories and sales facilities.
In vehicle design, Lexus prioritises better recyclability by considering recycling throughout the entire lifecycle of a car with renewable energy sources, such as solar power and LED lighting, being adopted in dealerships to further reduce emissions.
The company already uses high-recovery materials, easily recyclable parts and reduces/eliminates heavy metals – already becoming successful sustainable advocates.
Lexus offsets its carbon footprint through tree-planting initiatives and educates people about environmental issues via eco-parks and training programs.
The company demonstrates that sustainability goes beyond adopting eco-friendly materials or EVs—it involves rethinking mobility entirely.
By combining thoughtful design, innovative technologies and a dedication to craftsmanship, Lexus is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the automotive industry.
For Lexus, this future extends beyond vehicles, encompassing a holistic approach to sustainable living and mobility solutions.
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