Lincoln is marking its 100th anniversary this year, not by celebrating its founding in 1917 but by honoring its acquisition by Ford in 1922. To celebrate, the luxury brand is unveiling the Star concept at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, a glimpse into its electrified future with a striking new electric SUV.
The Star concept is a major departure from Lincoln’s current lineup, showcasing the company’s new “flexible battery electric architecture.” This innovative platform, distinct from previous plans to base their EVs on Rivian or Mustang Mach-E platforms, supports both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. It’s one of two EV-specific architectures developed by Ford, highlighting the brand’s commitment to electric innovation.
Though Lincoln hasn’t yet disclosed specific details about the Star’s battery technology or powertrains, the concept itself provides a tantalizing preview. The Star appears to be a larger SUV, comparable in size to the Aviator, with the flexibility to fit three rows of seats if needed. The design reflects a sleek, modern aesthetic, moving away from Lincoln’s traditional upright SUV look. Its smooth exterior includes a wide, flat front with an illuminated logo and a distinctive, curved daytime running light that also conceals the projector headlamps.
The concept features a sharply sloping roofline, with a small LIDAR unit at the front, and a 3D metallic lattice structure that provides a unique visual effect. The rear of the vehicle includes innovative cargo solutions: a forward-sliding fascia and a vertically lifting hood for the front storage, and a drop-down rear section that transforms into an outdoor seat, while the top lifts up like a conventional liftgate.
One of the standout features is the electro-chromatic glass hood that switches from transparent to dark, allowing light into the front footwells while driving and hiding stored items when parked. The interior, while not fully functional in the displayed model, promises a high-tech experience with a wide “coast to coast” touchscreen display, similar to the one in the Ford Evos, and backseat displays with a briefcase that doubles as a mobile workstation.
The cabin will emphasize sustainability with alternative materials and features three rejuvenation moods—Coastal Morning, Mindful Vitality, and Evening Chill—using screens, ambient lighting, and scents to enhance the experience.
Lincoln is aiming for half of its sales to be electric vehicles by the mid-2020s, with plans to introduce three fully electric models by 2025 and a fourth by 2026. While exact details and timelines remain vague, the Star concept offers an exciting glimpse into the future of Lincoln’s electric lineup.