09
July
2015
|
02:00
Europe/Amsterdam

Get ready to race with new lexus rc f virtual reality driving experience

• 360˚digital experience gives users the thrill of sitting in on a high-speed chase, set at the world famous Ascari race track in Marbella

• Pioneering app works with Oculus Rift headset, Google Cardboard VR viewer and YouTube's VR streaming function

The exhilaration and excitement of driving the Lexus RC F is captured in a new virtual reality experience designed to give everyone the chance to enjoy a taste of what makes the latest thoroughbred addition to Lexus' exclusive F performance portfolio so special.

Using the latest virtual reality technologies, Lexus has created an action-packed scenario in which the user embarks on a high-speed pursuit around a race track in the new RC F coupe.

To ensure a truly immersive experience, the action was filmed live on the exclusive Ascari circuit in southern Spain, using a battery of cameras inside and outside the car as well as trackside to capture high-quality, 360-degree digital footage.

The result is as close as you can get to enjoying the authentic speed, handling and sound of the 475hp RC F without actually sitting in the cockpit. You can even choose between a smooth or aggressive driving style, to suit your personal preference.

The experience is being offered as a smartphone app for iOS and Android which can be used stand-alone or with the Google Cardboard VR viewer. For even greater immersion, there is also an Oculus Rift VR version available. Additionally, you can also experience the 360° RC F film with the newly introduced 360° YouTube video streaming function (currently only working with Chrome browsers). Lexus launched the RC F experience at the Geneva motor show 2015 and will be giving people the chance to put themselves in the virtual race experience at key events across Europe this summer.

Lexus has also designed a branded version of Google Cardboard that will be publically available soon.

Spiros Fotinos, Lexus Europe's Head of Marketing, said: "At Lexus we are determined to push the boundaries in everything we do, whether that's in the design of our cars or the way we market our products to customers. For the RC F, we have created an amazing virtual reality experience that can be enjoyed and shared by anyone, anywhere — without the traditional hardware limitations. The combination of realism, multi-platform availability and YouTube 360° video streaming makes it truly a world first."

The RC F smartphone app is available for download now on the App store and Google play store (search: Lexus RC F). For more information please also visit http://www.lexus.eu/vr.

Launched at the end of 2014, the RC F is a premium sports coupe, born and bred at Japan's famous Fuji Speedway and inspired by the advanced technologies and performance-focused character of the Lexus LFA supercar.