 Lexus Unveils LF-C Luxury Sports Coupe Concept
Third in a Series that Reflects Company's New Design Direction
04/08/2004 New York, NY
Lexus introduced its third new concept design within a year when it unveiled
the LF-C luxury sports coupe concept car at the New York International Auto
Show today. The LF series of concept vehicles is designed to define and
launch an entirely new direction in styling for the Lexus brand. The LF-C
provides a hint of the direction Lexus is
 considering for the next
generation IS 300 sports car.
"Design is among the most important differentiating factors between any
two products and the LF-C expands the current IS 300 sport sedan into a new
category previously not addressed in the Lexus lineup," said Lexus Group
Vice President and General Manager Denny Clements. "The LF-C concept is
designed to target an extremely young, affluent buyer with a strong element
of surprise."
The surprise is provided by stylists from the Calty Design Research
Center in the form of a 4-position retractable hardtop in the LF-C. The
unique hardtop design allows the car to transform itself at the touch of a
button from a coupe to a convertible, to a targa or to a speedster,
depending on the driver's mood. The powered top stows neatly into the trunk
through a surprisingly minimal rear-deck opening.
A large rear wheel drive platform utilizes a high-output, front-mounted
V8 engine with a six-speed sequential automatic transmission as the basis
and motivating force for the LF-C. With an expanded wheelbase of 5.1 inches,
the LF-C is only slightly longer overall than the current IS 300.
Significantly, the LF-C sits about 2.0 inches lower and is nearly five
inches wider than the current IS 300. The broad stance and short overhangs
strike an aggressive pose with ample dimensions to comfortably
 accommodate
four adult passengers.
"We used a combination of convex and concave surfaces to control the
balance of light and shadow on the car which creates this beautiful contrast
of having sharp lines within the sculpted exterior surfaces," said Kevin
Hunter, vice president of Calty Design Research, Inc. "The idea was to
create a sense of strength and softness at the same time, adding an air of
mystery."
Calty used long, integrated lines to simplify the overall form of the
LF-C. The distinctive roof rail tapers
 as it moves forward from the rear,
mimicking the sculpted theme of the main body. The extreme tapering of the
main body shape from front to rear, which is then wrapped and interlocked by
the rear fenders, is designed to show strength and power from every angle.
The interior communicates performance with drive-by-wire steering and
Formula One inspired shifter and steering wheel with the gauges stacked
along the steering column axis, ascending toward the base of the windshield.
The gauges are transparent, with needles moving from the ring, rather than
the center.
A dynamic and flowing center console, in a solid tapered form, runs the
length of the interior. Displays
 and controls are hidden beneath this
transparent console surface that is multi-layered, which creates a
sophisticated, high-tech look and feel. The console is flanked on each side
by arched, wing-like instrument panels situated low in front of the driver
and passenger to create a feeling of openness.
Four lightweight individual bucket seats use slender shapes inspired by
modern stemware to create a contrast of sport and elegance. The effect
provides roominess along with a snug and secure feeling.
"We've known for some time that if Lexus ever prioritized styling the way
we have product quality and
 advanced technology, we would once again change
the luxury car playing field," said Clements. "The LF-C is a stunning
example of how Lexus will address the future and change it at the same
time."
Specifications
Wheelbase: 110.0 in.
Length: 178.7 in.
Width: 73.0 in.
Height: 53.5 in.
Engine: High-Output Double Overhead Cam V8
Transmission: 6-Speed Sequential A/T
Layout: Front engine, rear drive
Tire - Front: 245/35 ZR20
Rear: 285/30 ZR21
Wheel Size - Front: 20 x 9 in.
Rear: 21 x 10.5 in.
|
Talk about
other cars on our message board
with other car fans like you.