The Lexus NX 450h+ has been named the Plug-in Hybrid of the Year in the prestigious What Car? awards.

It is an auspicious first honour for the all-new mid-size premium SUV, Lexus’s first plug-in hybrid electric model, introduced in late 2021. What Car? has also recognised the Lexus LC 500 Convertible with the award for the Best High-end Convertible.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, expressed warm praise for the Lexus: “The Lexus NX is one of the most compelling reasons to go green that we’ve yet seen, with a long electric-only range which should not only slash motorists running costs, but also makes for tempting company car tax rates. The NX is good to drive, too, and has an interior that’s hard to fault in any respect. In short, Lexus has proved that driving an electrified car without accepting compromises need not be a fantasy.”

Turning to the award for the LC 500 Convertible, he added: “the LC 500’s V8 is an aural delight whether you’re revving it out on the open road or bumbling around town. Moreover, when the roof is in place and you’re cruising at speed, the LC is much better at shutting out wind noise than its rivals. Add in concept car looks and beautiful interior that feels like it’s been built to outlast the Earth and you have an unspeakably desirable package.”

The 450h+ is the halo model of the all-new NX range, a model that opens a new chapter for Lexus, introducing new directions in design, new powertrains and significant improvements in dynamic performance. Technology innovation provides a superior multimedia and connectivity package and new and enhanced Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance systems.

Lexus brought to bear its premium market leadership in hybrid electric technology to produce a new powertrain for the NX 450h+ that excels in all key areas. The full plug-in system, including electric motors and battery, produces a maximum 309 DIN hp / 227kW, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds. At the same time, CO₂ emissions of between 21-25g/km and fuel economy of 0.9-1.1 l/100 km are among the best in the model’s class.

Thanks to its powerful, rechargeable lithium-ion battery and all-round powertrain efficiency, NX 450h+ also provides a substantially higher EV range: at 70 to 74 km in the combined WLTP cycle, rising to 89 to 97 km in the urban cycle, this is as much as twice the range offered by competitors in its segment.

Lexus pursued the theme of “ultimate beauty” in producing the LC 500 Convertible, a car that successfully reinterprets the award-winning design of the flagship LC coupe. Thanks to sophisticated aerodynamics and the crafting of a bespoke folding soft-top mechanism, the car presents powerful, elegant lines and ensures occupants travel in complete comfort – roof up or down. Tuning of the naturally aspirated V8 engine note and the exhaust adds a special aural dimension to the driving experience.

Chris Hayes, Director of Lexus in the UK, said: “The all-new NX 450h+ is a pivotal model for our brand, setting the template for future Lexus vehicles that will raise the level of driver rewards, environmental performance and all-round quality to an even higher level. To have our first plug-in hybrid electric model honoured with this award on its debut is an achievement that is warmly appreciated by everyone at Lexus. Likewise, the award for the LC 500 Convertible reflects the breadth of design and engineering excellence at work in our company.”

The artworks were commissioned from seven artists and designers in different European countries with a brief to capture the driving pleasures and beautiful design of the open-top LC. These were displayed on Lexus’ social media channels during the past month, where people could vote for their favourites, prompting a close contest for the top honour.

In total, 3,459 votes were cast with top three placings taken by Georgia, then Spain, with David de la Heras’ view of the Sierra de Madrid, and then France, with Matthieu Forichon depicting the LC Convertible amid the scenery of the French Riviera.

A prize draw will now select 10 lucky winners at random from among those who voted for the Georgian entry. Each of whom will receive a framed print of the poster and some Lexus give-aways (winners will be notified by email).

Nino Gordeladze, Executive Creative Director of Windfor’s in the Georgian capital, described the design: “The start of an unforgettable summer adventure is around the corner – the sensation of freedom elevated with style and charisma, and in this case, the gorgeous city of Batumi stands waiting on the horizon, offering a rollercoaster of sweet summer fun.”

Born in Corsica, France, his talent blossomed after studying French cuisine under the Master Chef, Michel Troisgros. He then moved to Japan, where his philosophy towards cooking changed as he spent time reflecting on the art. What prompted the change was nature and the earnestness of the farmer-producers interacting with the Japanese landscape. “I used to cook to express myself,” Lionel explains, “but when I encountered the amazing wonders of Japanese nature and the people empowered by it, I realized that it ought to be ingredients that are expressed in the food, not the chef.” Now, he believes that “it is my mission and responsibility as a chef” to embrace and value this connection with nature.

And so to experience the power of nature directly, the LC Convertible was the partner of choice. “The natural, flowing design makes it look as if it had been born that way. What it symbolizes is similar to what I look for in a dish,” according to Lionel, giving his first impressions of the LC Convertible. Lionel begins his journey behind the wheel of the LC convertible, a car that resonates with his own philosophy.

Lionel, eager to discover the true meaning behind his cuisine, heads back to Oita Prefecture in southern Japan, a region he has visited in the past. This is a place energized by the earth’s power, nestled as it is, in the bosom of Mount Aso, one of Japan's most famous volcanoes. It is a locale where water is pure, plants are fresh, the air is clean, and the people live in harmony with nature. For Lionel, this is a special place that once helped him connect with nature and changed his views on cooking.

 “People say that my cuisine is unique because I possess both French and Japanese viewpoints, allowing me to show two different sides. So, experiencing Japan again through this drive is great for shaping my mentality and philosophy as a chef,” he says.

He takes the wheel and starts driving along the highland route. With the roof open, he can experience the mountain air directly; the steady acceleration releases all five senses to connect with nature.

“You feel at one with the car.” The drive creates a profound sense of freedom, as if the mind were blending into nature. While driving through the magnificent landscape, an image of wild birds, leisurely flying in the sky, occurs to Lionel. He feels as if he too could fly freely to wherever he desired. “Liberté absolue (absolute freedom)” were Lionel's words to describe the drive in the LC Convertible.

When Lionel returned to Tokyo after his trip, he prepared a dish based on his driving experience. One of the key ingredients was the wild bird that came into his mind as he drove through the highlands. “Free and wild, yet graceful and elegant. That is the shared image I had in my mind when I thought of the LC Convertible and wild birds,” Lionel explains. “What you discover through traveling enriches you and, in my case, is food for thought as a chef,” says Lionel as he reflects on his trip.

Food and cars. At first they may seem unrelated but Lionel explains that there are definite similarities: “Eating and driving are both physical sensations. They both need to appeal to the five human senses.” Those words signify the determination of a man set to satisfy the endless desires of the "human senses". Lionel concluded that, "There is no final goal to creating things. So, just as LEXUS continues evolving, I hope to take on further challenges myself."

We called upon professional driver Paul Swift to take on this unique challenge. Firstly, Paul had to safely drive the frozen Lexus LC out from the freezing climatic chamber with zero visibility. And then, ice still dropping from the LC Convertible, he put the open-top Lexus through its paces around a challenging test circuit.

Discover Paul's impressions from the driver's seat - both of the LC Convertible's awesome V8 power and its luxurious Climate Concierge system - in our short film.

It was a frosty start to the day - inside the car at least. "This morning I got in the freezer and sat inside the car which was quite crispy," explains Paul. "The steering wheel was freezing, and it was all completely dark."

"This morning I... sat inside the car which was quite crispy"

Professional driver Paul Swift on our frozen Lexus LC Convertible

Darkness wasn't the only challenge inside the chamber. The frozen Lexus LC had a coating of ice on the windscreen, just as with a normal vehicle defrost test. Combine that with an instant cloud of condensing cold air around the car once the chamber opened and Paul was driving blind. "It's quite unnerving not being able to see anything," he continues. "The screen was completely frozen up, so I was guided by the team over the radio for the first part... You could hear the crispness of the tires on the ground as I was turning the wheel. It's like nothing I've ever experienced before."

With the car running, the situation in the sculpted leather driver's seat rapidly improved. Our LC Convertible's Climate Concierge includes a heated steering wheel, heated seats and the optional neck heater. These features would be welcome on any chilly day, especially if you enjoy open-top motoring no matter the temperature. For Paul, they were a blessing in the conditions: "[I] started the engine and immediately I could feel the steering wheel warming up and [heat] coming through from the seat... There's even some vents behind your neck to keep that warm." His verdict on Climate Concierge? "Considering it was minus 18, immediately I felt quite comfortable in the car."

"Considering it was minus 18, immediately I felt quite comfortable in the car."

Professional driver Paul Swift on Lexus Climate Concierge

The windscreen completely defrosted within minutes so Paul and the team could head out onto Millbrook's famous Alpine Test Track. Paul highlights the challenges from a driver and vehicle perspective: "The Alpine Route's quite testing because it undulates quite a lot. It's got some quite fast-flowing corners into some tight hairpins, so you can feel the chassis. You're really asking a lot of the car as you're dipping into these corners and then turning in."

How would our luxury soft-top respond to this test? "It does everything you want from a performance point of view, but also it's comfortable," Paul relates. "There was no problem with understeer, the gear change is effortless, and it has the blipper as you're going down so you get that little [blip of revs] which is quite appealing." And as well as looking stunning from every angle - roof up or roof down - the LC Convertible sounds the part: "It's a 5.0-litre V8 engine," he explains, "You can give it full power and...you can hear the exhaust opens up and you could hear the full V8."

So, what was Paul's verdict after experiencing the frozen Lexus? "I've never really experienced anything as dramatic as this where you're going from such extreme cold back to sort of normal temperatures for the UK in May," he reveals. "In regular UK May temperatures, it's still not St. Tropez [but] I felt comfortable in the car, so it does exactly what it's meant to do: keeps you up to temperature." Paul continues: "It does everything you want from a performance point of view, but also it's comfortable. I'd like to keep it..."

Blue skies and sunshine are the ideal backdrop for a great drive in the Lexus LC Convertible, but this is a car that’s just as capable of dealing with much harsher weather conditions, as an icy endurance test has proved.

To demonstrate the LC Convertible’s depth of quality, Lexus subjected a standard car to 12 hours inside an industrial-scale refrigeration unit at -18°C. More than that, the four-layer roof was stowed for the sub-zero marathon, exposing the interior, and the test was followed by an immediate high-power drive around a demanding test track.

The gruelling trial is the subject of a new Lexus short film, available to view here.

The venue for the event was the Large Climatic Chamber at the Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK. The 468m3 unit is regularly used to test the endurance of defence equipment as well as road vehicles, at temperatures between +85 and -60°C, with up to 98 per cent relative humidity.

For the LC Convertible’s visit, the mercury was set at -18°C – cold enough to freeze rubber and the industry standard for assessing defrosting performance. Taking the test a step further, the Lexus was given a preliminary water spray so that a sheet of ice would form over the vehicle body.

Greg Fleming, the senior engineer overseeing the trial, said: “With the roof down, the interior components would be in an extremely stressed condition and it would not be a nice place for anyone to be – the hope was that the air conditioning system, the heated seats and steering wheel would all still operate as they should.”

Once the Lexus was parked inside the chamber, it took about an hour for the powerful gas conditioning system to bring the temperature down to the required level. Then the car was left untouched overnight.

Paul Swift, a professional stunt driver, was recruited to put the Lexus to its post-freeze test. On the call of “action” for the film crew, the 457bhp V8 engine fired up first time and the car’s displays and gauges sprung instantly to life, showing no adverse impact from the extreme cold.

As Swift discovered straight away, the Climate Concierge responded immediately to heat the cabin. “I could feel the steering wheel and the base of my back warming up and the vents in the head rest behind my neck. It was actually quite pleasant, considering it was minus 18, I felt quite comfortable in the car right away,” he said.

His driving skills were then called into play as he piloted the Lexus out of the chamber to take on Milbrook’s hill course, an alpine-style test route of challenging curves, climbs and descents.

Here the LC Convertible demonstrated exhilarating performance to match its styling and comfort, shedding dramatic shards of ice from its bodywork as it gathered speed.

“I didn’t really know what to expect but pressing the start button she started right away,” said Swift. “The route is testing, so you are asking a lot of the car and you can feel the chassis,” Swift explained. “There was no problem with understeer, the gear change was effortless and there is an appealing blip of the revs as you change down. This is a lovely car and does exactly what you need it to do.”

The Lexus LC range has all the qualities befitting a flagship range, representing the best in Lexus design, engineering and craftsmanship. Established with the introduction of the LC Coupe in 2017, it has now been extended to include an all-new soft-top model of equal status, the LC 500 Convertible.

The Convertible shares the Coupe’s beautiful design and exhilarating dynamic performance, while adding the specific rewards associated with top-down driving. Where the Coupe’s focus is an “ultimate beauty” design and performance imbued with the heritage of the Lexus LFA supercar, the Convertible enriches the sensory experience. Driving with the top down makes the driver feel even more closely connected to their car, the road and the world around them.

The LC Coupe – both the LC 500h hybrid and the V8-powered LC 500 - benefits from a series of improvements and innovations for the 2021 model year. These changes are also incorporated, as appropriate, in the Convertible. The result is an evolution in the model’s luxury motoring qualities, from its ride, handling and responsiveness to its comfort and multimedia functionality.

EVEN SHARPER, MORE REFINED DRIVING FEEL

Lexus pursues linear operation that is faithful to driver's intentions, such as in the seamless transition from deceleration to steering and acceleration during cornering, in all types of driving situations. In a further evolution of the “even sharper, more refined“ philosophy of the LC, the new "Lexus Driving Signature" was born. This will be the new development standard every Lexus model will reflect going forward. This aspect of driving performance was a particular focus in the rigorous vehicle testing programme, resulting in numerous, incremental dynamic improvements. It’s this uncompromising attention to detail that has given the new LC models the kind of special performance quality that drivers will enjoy, even in everyday driving situations.

THE NEW LC 500 CONVERTIBLE

“For the first Lexus soft top, my team was determined to create the world’s most seductive convertible,”

TADAO MORI

LC CONVERTIBLE CHIEF DESIGNER

• Preserving the design essence of the LC Coupe with ingenious solutions to accommodate the folding soft top
• Detailed management of aerodynamic elements and air conditioning performance to ensure comfort at all times – top up or down

The LC Convertible’s design preserves all the principal lines of the Coupe, while introducing an all-new retracting soft top. Lexus ingenuity has produced a folding mechanism that stows the roof within a very small space without intruding on the load compartment, or compromising the car’s elegant styling to the rear of the cabin.

Comfort is assured, roof up or down, with specific adjustment of the air conditioning system, aerodynamic details and the effective suppression of wind flow and noise. Strategic strengthening of the body structure preserves the car’s poise and agility, while also providing robust impact protection performance.

DESIGN

• LC Convertible carries forward the award-winning styling of the LC Coupe
• Exterior design is equally impressive, roof up or down
• Lexus’ first soft top, engineered for an elegant appearance, durable performance and compact stowage

The mission for the team designing the LC Convertible was simple: create the world’s most beautiful open-top car. The statement was straightforward, but the task was a considerable challenge, as Lexus was determined that the new model should preserve the essential styling motifs of the LC coupe, the winner of multiple international awards for its striking and advanced design. Moreover, the convertible had to look equally impressive with its roof up, or down.

In February 2019, their work was revealed in public for the first time with the unveiling of the LC Convertible Concept, a car created on the theme of “ultimate beauty.” Thanks to the determination and skill of the Lexus designers, the production car has kept faithful to the concept’s promise.

CREATING THE COUPE ROOF LINE

The line of the roof was key to the designers achieving their goal, as Chief Designer Tadao Mori explained: “Although there are many convertible models out there, few of them are stylish and elegant both when the roof is open and closed. Particularly when the roof is raised, ridge lines in the uneven surface tend to give an unrefined impression. That’s why for the LC Convertible, we put maximum effort into realising the same beautiful roof line as the coupe.”

To produce the desired silhouette, the point where the soft top meets the car’s rear quarters was moved as far towards the rear of the car as possible, to create a fastback look when the roof is raised. Particular attention was paid to the tensioning of the soft top to ensure a smooth surface, and the frame and other elements are perfectly concealed, so the roof has a clean and elegant, tapered form.

When viewed from the rear, the line of the soft top emphasises the compact proportions of the cabin, contrasting with the wide-flaring under-body and projecting a dynamic look.

PERFECTING THE TONNEAU COVER AND SILHOUETTE

The designers took advantage of the LC’s platform specifications and the soft top’s folding mechanism to set the tonneau cover as low as possible. They also avoided the familiar flat, platform look seen on many other convertibles by adding fairing-shaped accents that echo the curves of the rear headrests.

It is another common feature of convertibles that the design can seem stretched out from the tonneau cover to the boot lid, particularly when the roof is down. This was avoided on the LC by profiling the rear end so that it rises in a duck tail, producing a distinctive silhouette that is sleek and dynamic. The beltline also kicks up behind the doors to give a sense of the body wrapping around the cabin, creating a tight and clean profile.

SOFT TOP DESIGN AND ENGINEERING

The LC Convertible is Lexus’ first soft-top model, and every effort was made to ensure the roof meets its requirements for a sleek and smart appearance, quiet and quick operation and compact stowing that doesn’t diminish space in the load compartment.

One of the principal design challenges was to minimise bulkiness in the bodywork in the shoulder area immediately behind the rear seats. This was achieved by creating an extra fold in the soft top so that it can be stowed in the area behind the rear seats, between the left and right-hand rear suspension towers. The hydraulic motor system is also located in this space. As a result, the luggage compartment is similar in size to that of the Coupe – 149 litres.

This clever design also allowed for a sharp and fine character line to be created, running from the front to the rear of the car. To produce this line and achieve a high-quality finish, Lexus applied an incremental forming process, in addition to the conventional press used to mould the aluminium tonneau cover.

A folding roof mechanism is usually expected to last around 10 years before it needs mechanical attention. To meet Lexus’ exceptional quality and reliability requirements, the LC Convertible’s roof was tested to breaking point. It went through around 18,000 open and closing cycles before a problem occurred – even then only a minor one that was not hazardous. The test programme also verified that the system works just as well in freezing temperatures and snow.

The roof can be raised or lowered in 15 seconds. The task can be done even when the car is on the move, at speeds up to 50 km/h. Once again, thorough testing was undertaken, using a wind tunnel to ensure the system can cope with different speeds and driving conditions, including headwinds.

A quiet cabin free-from outside noise and vibration is an important part of Lexus’ omotenashi principles of ultimate customer care. The LC Convertible’s multi-layered canvas roof is effective in blocking out unwanted noise and its hydraulic motor works quietly and efficiently.

CONTINUITY BETWEEN EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR

In a convertible the cabin is more open to view and closely connected to the car’s exterior design. Lexus sought to bring a perfect sense of continuity to the exterior and interior of the LC Convertible by using innovative colour co-ordination.

Three soft top colours are available: Marine Blue (Regatta Edition exclusive, Ochre and Black), the latter two suitable for use with any of the bodywork paint options. With these choices and further options for interior colours, owners have the freedom to specify a car that captures their personal style.

At launch, the LC Convertible is also presented in a Regatta Edition model with a colour scheme that matches Structural Blue bodywork with a white and blue interior and a Marine soft top – a combination inspired by the colours found at a luxury marina. White is used extensively in the cabin, including Lexus’ first all-white steering wheel and carpeting. This contrasts with the door trim which is finished with blue synthetic leather. Rather than a printed pattern, this material has a grain that gives a three-dimensional effect with texture and shading.

Co-ordinating the interior A-pillar trim with the colour of the roof lining is a rare quality design feature but one that Lexus applies throughout the LC range. The effect is all the more stylish in the LC Convertible, as the pillars are in clear view whenever the roof is lowered. The colour co-ordination catches the eye and accentuates the luxurious quality of the interior

Special attention has also been paid to the detailing on the seat upholstery, with a unique quilting pattern applied to the shoulder section of the front seats, adding both elegance and tactile quality. Perforations with three different hole diameters are organised in graduated pattern in which they appear to progressively fade away.

UNMISTAKEABLY AN LC

In other respects, the exterior design of the LC Convertible preserves all the powerful, muscular styling and detail that helped earn the Coupe two prestigious EyesOn Design awards.

This “avant-garde elegance” can be seen in the large spindle grille – a hallmark of Lexus design – which is finished in chrome and has a mesh design with a visual tension that changes as it spreads across the front of the car. A distinctive lighting signature is created by independent daytime running lights in an arrowhead configuration and ultra-compact triple LED headlamp units. Achieving this remarkably slim headlight design played an important role in helping the designers achieve a low bonnet line and short front overhang.

The prominent front and rear wings flare away from the centre of the car and house wide, large-diameter wheels. The effect is heightened by the door panels being pulled inwards, generating a strong, three-dimensional form that mirrors the spindle shape of the grille.

PERFORMANCE

• Body structure reinforced for impact protection and to minimise vibration and flexing
• Safety features include automatic roll-over bars and extra impact-absorbing material in the front pillars and windscreen header
• Performance from the naturally aspirated V8 engine matches that of the LC Coupe

STRENGTHENED BODY

The body structure of the LC Convertible has been strengthened to further improve safety performance in the event of a collision and to maintain a comfortable drive free from vibration or flexing.

In the upper body, reinforcements have been introduced to disperse impact forces and suppress body deformation around the cabin, using high-tensile and hot-stamped materials that are both strong and lightweight. Gussets have been added at the bottom of the front and centre pillars and the installation of an aluminium alloy torsion box, rear suspension tower brace and V-brace ensures a robust connection between the left and right upper body and the under body, with strong torsional rigidity.

Panel rigidity has been increased with more extensive use of body adhesive and additional spot weld points, minimising vibration and improving handling.

SAFETY PERFORMANCE

The LC Convertible is fitted with an active roll bar system comprising two individual bars that automatically deploy from beneath the rear parcel shelf if a high risk of a roll-over accident is detected.

Further protection in top-down driving is provided by the addition of an impact-absorbing structure in the garnish on the front pillars and the windscreen header trim, reducing impact force to the head in the event of a collision.

SPEED AND BALANCE

Lexus was determined that the Convertible should be every bit as fast as the LC 500 Coupe and used both a wind tunnel and test track to verify the same top speed could be achieved, roof up or roof down. The new body shape has not compromised the car’s speed. To verify performance was equal to that of the Coupe, the Convertible was tested both in the wind tunnel and on the test track.

The naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine and 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission have the same specifications as in the LC 500 Coupe (details in the powertrain chapter below). In the Convertible they enable nought to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.0 seconds and a top speed (electronically limited) of 270 km/h.

When it comes to handling, the new roof actually makes a positive contribution to the car’s dynamics. With its lightweight structure, it weighs less than the hard top, which helps give the Convertible a lower centre of gravity than the Coupe. This, and the fact that all the roof’s components are located within the car’s wheelbase, is a key factor in in the Convertible’s dynamic balance and driving character. The roof’s frame is made from a rare combination of magnesium and aluminium to keep its weight to a minimum without compromising quality or performance.

COMFORT AND AERODYNAMICS

• Airflow management and air conditioning revised to ensure comfort when driving with roof raised or lowered
• Aerodynamic elements suppress wind buffeting, including a wind deflector and optional wind screen

A wind-in-the-hair feeling that gives you a closer connection to the world around you is one of the traditional pleasures of driving a convertible. Combine this with the stirring note of a powerful engine and you have an even more special experience.

Lexus has gone to exceptional lengths in creating the LC Convertible to ensure comfort and quality are never compromised when the roof is lowered. Its aim was to prevent cold air chilling the lower body, while managing temperature and airflow around the upper body so that occupants can enjoy a refreshing breeze without feeling cold or buffeted.

AIR CONDITIONING

The LC’s air conditioning system was reconfigured and recalibrated for the Convertible to take into account the change in cabin environment when the roof is stowed.

An open-air control uses a sensor in the roof to detect whether the top is up or down, and adjusts air conditioning performance accordingly. With the top down, the temperature and airflow volume are automatically regulated according to factors such as the amount of sunlight, the outside temperature and the vehicle’s speed.

Adjustable heaters built into the headrests direct air onto the occupant’s neck, so they feel warm straight away. It is designed to suit people of different heights and works automatically or with manual control, with three heat settings.

Lexus’ intelligent Climate Concierge has been adapted specifically for the convertible so that it still delivers optimum performance, co-ordinating control of the automatic air-conditioning, the seat and neck heaters and the heated steering wheel. It recognises when the front passenger seat is unoccupied, automatically switching off the neck and seat heaters to save power. Attention to detail includes a slight increase in the air conditioning’s airflow volume, to address issues such as helping keep the back of the driver’s hands warm.

AERODYNAMIC DETAILS

Lexus sought the perfect balance between the car’s aerodynamic styling and the performance of the cabin’s air conditioning. The engineering team took a human-centred approach, true to Lexus’ omotenashi principles of providing seamless comfort and hospitality.

Researching airflow over the car when the roof is down, they produced a belt line along the side of the car that kicks up at the rear edge of the doors to meet the surface of the boot lid – which itself was set at an optimum height. This detail makes for a smoother airflow that does not buffet the car’s occupants.

There is also a transparent wind deflector – fitted as standard – behind the rear seats which suppresses unwelcome airflow and keeps things quiet enough in the cabin to hold a conversation without the need to raise one’s voice when travelling at speeds up to around 60 km/h. Although small in size, it can reduce airflow around the occupants’ faces by about 20%.

For a comfortable ride when travelling at high speed, an optional wind screen is available, which can reduce airflow around the head by about 67% at 100 km/h. This mesh unit sits neatly behind the rear seats and can remain in place when the roof is raised.

Many different mesh patterns were tested before the best-performing option was selected, and attention was paid to the screen’s appearance as well as its performance, so that it blends perfectly with the convertible’s design.

NOISE MANAGEMENT

• Engine and exhaust notes tuned to heighten the pleasure of top-down driving
• Cabin quietness on a par with the hard-top LC Coupe

The powerful sound produced by the engine and exhaust is a key part of the driving experience in the new Lexus LC Convertible. Great aural quality was an important goal for the car’s development team, and one that required precise engineering techniques to achieve.

The ultra-exclusive LFA supercar marks the origin of Lexus’ focus on the importance of the engine sound and it was the specialists who worked on its V10 power unit who first identified the separate qualities that come together to create the ideal Lexus sound “atmosphere.”

Where the LC Convertible is concerned, the power of the V8 engine’s note had to be balanced by a level of cabin quietness that overturns preconceptions about driving in a convertible – an equation Lexus calls a “harmony of opposites.” To achieve the right effect, the sound of the engine changes in line with the rise and fall in its rpm, becoming more powerful and urgent in tune with the driver’s use of the accelerator and the sequence of shifts through the rapid-action 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. The exhaust note, too, heightens the sensation. By contrast, in gentle cruising, the sound is subdued, so conversation is easy when the roof is down.

CREATING THE IDEAL ENGINE NOTE

A continuous, pulsating sound is characteristic of a large-capacity, naturally aspirated V8 engine like the five-litre unit which powers the LC 500 Convertible. Lexus has applied acoustic technologies to combine this with spectral harmony (perfect sound intervals that are pleasing to the ear), stereophonic sound, to create a depth of sound, and formants – acoustic qualities that stir the senses and generate a feel-good factor.

Active Noise Control is used to “clean” the sound frequencies experienced in the car. This emits anti-pulse sounds through the audio speakers which counteract any unwelcome low frequency booming sound from the engine and drivetrain.

In the LC Coupe, noise inside the cabin is monitored by a microphone in the roof, but for the Convertible, this had to be relocated inside the driver’s headrest. Being closer to the driver’s ear means it can pick up a wider range of frequencies, but a complex algorithm had to be calculated to make sure it works accurately in any seat position.

CABIN QUIETNESS

Even though the LC Convertible has a soft top, Lexus wanted to secure the same kind of cabin quietness as in the Coupe when the roof is raised. Acoustic simulations were produced to determine where dominant noises were entering the space, so that the amount and location of soundproofing and sound-absorbing material could be calculated.

The storage area behind the rear seats for the folding roof presented a particular challenge as it was a route for tyre and exhaust noise to enter the cabin. There was not enough room for soundproofing material to be added, so the team looked instead at adapting the trim material itself. By allowing air to pass through the structure and using sound-absorbing material on the reverse, the entire surface of the storage space soaks up noise.

As the area is visible and part of the car’s interior, it also had to look good. Lexus assessed many different materials before choosing one usually used for lining the wings around the wheels. This meets safety standards and, being applied with extra density, has just the right appearance.

2021 UPDATES FOR THE LEXUS LC COUPE

“For me, the LC 500h luxury coupé is all about the emotions. It features some of the most advanced automotive technologies ever created, including Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System and Lexus Safety System +, yet it’s not the world-firsts that thrill me. It is watching people fall in love with the LC the first time they drive it.”

KOJI SATO

LC CHIEF ENGINEER

• Comfort, ride and handling improvements with suspension revisions, weight-saving measures and shock absorber adjustments
• Performance improved with changes to the LC 500h’s Multi Stage Hybrid System and high-voltage hybrid battery
• Improved shift pattern for the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission
• Multimedia system gains smartphone integration functions with Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^®

The Lexus’ flagship coupe has always aimed to provide “even sharper, more refined” performance. Changes introduced for the 2021 model year (and shared with the new LC 500 Convertible) deliver greater responsiveness, handling stability and agility, strengthening the driver’s feeling of being directly connected to the car.

To achieve its goals, Lexus has revised the suspension system, saving weight and improving ride and handling quality. Changes to the high-voltage hybrid battery control have produced more useful power and torque in the LC 500h, and adjustments have improved performance of the LC 500’s 10-speed automatic transmission. The steering has also been revised and the brakes tuned to communicate a better feel to the driver.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

Changes to the LC Coupe’s suspension system deliver greater responsiveness, handling stability and agility, strengthening the driver’s feeling of being directly connected to the car and delivering an exhilarating driving experience.

A focus on weight saving has seen unsprung mass reduced by almost 10 kg. This has been accomplished principally with changes to the suspension, including the use of aluminium lower arms, lighter, hollow anti-roll bars with a revised diameter and a new high-strength material for the coil springs.

Once the weight savings were secured, attention turned to updating the suspension for a smooth, softer stroke, giving the driver a stronger feel of the road. The electronic front shock absorber controls have been adjusted to give a longer stroke, and bound stopper rigidity has been optimised to help create a smoother suspension stroke overall. Rear anti-roll bar rigidity has been increased to improve front turn-in performance and provide more linear steering input, again helping make the driver feel more connected to the road.

BRAKES AND STEERING

Larger brake pads with a higher friction coefficient have been adopted to gain more effective performance and stability at high temperatures and speeds. The system continues to use front and rear ventilated discs with opposed six-piston aluminium monobloc callipers at the front and four-piston units at the rear. The black callipers are decorated with the Lexus logo in white.

In a detailed touch, even the surface of the brake pedal has been revised to provide a larger contact area, giving a more natural feel for the driver.

Adding reinforcements and bracing has increased the steering support rigidity, helping achieve better handling stability. The measures include reinforcement of the instrument panel and a higher-rigidity surface for the upper and lower steering support joints, plus changes to the bracing for the driver’s seat and cowl. Software updates for the Variable Gear Ratio Steering, Dynamic Rear Steering and the electric power steering have further sharpened responsiveness.

ACTIVE CORNERING ASSIST

For better vehicle control in mid to high-speed ranges, the LC’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) has a new Active Cornering Assist (ACA) function. This helps control cornering by providing braking to the inner wheels in line with lateral vehicle acceleration experienced when higher G forces are generated in spirited driving (further details in the Chassis Dynamics section below).

POWERTRAINS

• LC 500h Coupe powered by 3.5-litre V6 self-charging full hybrid powertrain
• First model to benefit from Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System
• LC 500 Coupe and Convertible feature 5.0-litre V8 engine, matched to Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission

LC 500h WITH MULTI STAGE HYBRID SYSTEM

The LC 500h Coupe’s self-charging full hybrid powertrain features a 299 DIN hp/220 kW 3.5-litre V6 engine and Lexus’ revolutionary Multi Stage Hybrid System. Total system output is 359 DIN hp/264 kW.

The Multi Stage Hybrid System, which debuted on the LC Coupe, is one of the most significant technical advances yet developed by Lexus. It overturns the traditional “eco” perception of hybrid powertrains to deliver authentic high performance, unlike anything seen before. In essence, the system uses a multi stage shift device to amplify engine and electric motor output in four stages, making use of the full range of engine speeds. This gives more direct response to driver inputs and a higher level of dynamic performance and driving pleasure.

Lexus has increased maximum engine speed from 6,000 to 6,500 rpm, while the nought to 100 km/h acceleration time remains at 5.0 seconds. Changes to the Multi Stage Hybrid System’s shift logic have produced smoother and more linear response, and also sharpened performance through bends with an automatic downshift to second gear when accelerating out of a turn.

PERFORMANCE BENEFITS FROM HYBRID BATTERY CONTROL

The LC 500h Coupe benefits from a new control programme in its high-voltage lithium-ion hybrid battery that increases its operating range and the degree of assistance provided to the electric motor. This helps provide more powerful acceleration, both when negotiating urban streets, or driving on winding roads. For example, extra power and torque are delivered sooner as the vehicle accelerates from 50 to 80 km/h, even with moderate, 30% pressure on the accelerator pedal.

LC 500 WITH 5.0-LITRE V8 ENGINE ^{(ALSO FEATURED IN LC 500 CONVERTIBLE)}

The performance heart of the LC 500 Coupe and Convertible is Lexus’ high-revving (maximum 7,300 rpm), naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine. This Atkinson cycle unit is supported by advanced D-4S fuel injection technology and its power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 10-speed close-ratio automatic transmission.

The V8 provides smooth, linear acceleration and generates a stirring engine note. Maximum power of 464 DIN hp/341 kW is delivered at 7,100 rpm, with maximum torque of 530 Nm available at 4,800 rpm. Acceleration from rest to 100 km/h can be accomplished in 4.7 seconds in the Coupe.

The engine is designed for durability and has a lightweight construction, with high-strength, forged connecting rods and titanium valves that allow it to flourish at high revs. A dual intake inlet enables efficient breathing and contributes to the engine’s distinctive sound. Noise and vibration have been reduced by the fitting a double torsional damper on the crank pulley, while fuel efficiency is supported by the use of D-4S direct fuel injection, Atkinson cycle operation, optimised VVT-i intelligent valve timing and a high (12.3:1) compression ratio. Extensive measures have also been taken to reduce friction and pumping losses.

V8 SOUND QUALITY

The sound generated by the LC 500’s V8 powertrain is all part of the quality of the driving experience. Lexus has changed the location of the valve that determines the route of the exhaust gases in the main silencer to achieve the ideal note. This makes its presence felt at start-up and at high engine revs (from around 4,000 rpm), while performance is quiet when cruising.

TRANSMISSION

Lexus has used big data to improve the drive force characteristics of the LC 500’s (Coupe and Convertible) 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, to achieve even more faithful responses to the driver’s intentions. With more drive force generated as engine speed increases, the driver feels a real sense of powerful torque and continuous acceleration.

The focus was the “active zone” – the 50 to 70% throttle range that accounts for most driving – with the transmission allowing revs to rise higher before shifting into the next gear. The effect is enhanced by the rising note of the V8 engine.

 In the LC 500h the Multi Stage Hybrid System’s shift logic has been adjusted to provide even smoother and more linear response. The changes improve performance when accelerating out of a bend, with an automatic downshift to second gear instead of third.

MULTIMEDIA

For the 2021 model year, all LC models are equipped as standard with Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^®, allowing for easy, wireless smartphone integration and access to popular apps for navigation, entertainment and messaging. With Android Auto, the Google Assistant can be used and tailored information can be sourced based on the user’s calendar, previous activity and established preferences.

Apple CarPlay allows users to access the familiar interface from their iPhone^® through the vehicle’s multimedia display. An iPhone can be connected to obtain journey directions, make calls, send and receive message via Siri^®, and gain access to apps such as Spotify, Audible and Apple podcasts.

LEXUS LC SERIES FAMILY FEATURES

The following sections cover the established features of the Lexus LC series, including design, powertrains, chassis dynamics, craftsmanship, safety and audio systems.

DESIGN

• Distinctive LC design based on award-winning LF-LC Concept car
• Fluid interpretation of Lexus’s “seduction and technology” design theme
• Luxury 2+2 coupe proportions, with authentic front engine/rear-wheel drive design characterised by low bonnet and roof lines and aerodynamically efficient surfacing

EXTERIOR DESIGN

Making the show car’s styling a practical proposition for a full production car required a new way of working at Lexus, bringing the engineering and design teams together with an unprecedented degree of co-operation to achieve the desired results. The success of this teamwork was rewarded when the LC won two further EyesOn Design honours when it in turn was revealed at the 2016 Detroit motor show.The LC Coupe’s exterior design is immediately recognisable as being a faithful reinterpretation of the styling of the LF-LC concept, winner of an EyesOn Design Award when first revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The LC has luxury coupe proportions with an exterior design that projects an avant-garde elegance, remaining faithful to many of the defining features of the LF-LC concept car that inspired it.

The car’s athletic profile is characterised by its sweeping roofline, which tapers rearwards from above the centrally positioned cabin to create a distinctive silhouette. Chrome-plated mouldings along the side of the glass roof amplify the elegant shape, their rear edges shaped to echo the lines of a traditional Japanese sword. The blacked-out finish to the roof and rear pillars creates a floating effect that visually separates the roof from the rear spoiler.

The sporting appearance can be heightened with an optional CFRP composite roof and an active rear spoiler.

The LC Coupe has a 2,870 mm wheelbase, very compact overhangs (930 mm front, 970 mm rear) and a notably low bonnet line. Overall length is 4,770 mm, width is 1,920 mm and the height 1,345 mm. The prominent front and rear wings flare away from the centre of the car, housing wide, large-diameter wheels, while the door panels are pulled inwards, creating a powerful three-dimensional form that mirrors the spindle shape of the Lexus grille.

The LC is available with a choice of 20-inch cast aluminium or optional 21-inch forged aluminium alloy wheels.

FRONTAL DESIGN

The spindle grille is finished in chrome and has a mesh design with a visual tension that changes as it spreads across the front of the car. The unique LC lighting signature is created by independent daytime running lights in an arrowhead configuration and ultra-compact triple LED headlamp units. Achieving this remarkably slim headlight design played an important role in helping the designers achieve the coupe’s low bonnet line and short front overhang.

REAR STYLING

At the rear the roof tapers down between muscular wheel arches, reinforcing the car’s wide and stable stance. The Lexus spindle shape is visible here in a three-dimensional form that is generated by lines flowing from the front of the car and along the sides, before cutting back around the inner edge of the rear combination lamps. The line of the spindle then moves outwards, following the shape of the licence plate mounting and outer edges of the tailpipes.

The rear combination lamps, set vertically at the outermost edge of the bumper, have a graphic that accentuates the flow along the sides of the body and emphasises the vehicle’s strong, planted look.

AERODYNAMICS

Lexus worked to introduce a high level of aerodynamic performance to improve the coupe’s handling stability and ride quality and to suppress wind noise. The aim was to achieve a smooth, unbroken front to rear airflow, both over and beneath the body. Design elements that help control and direct the airflow include small but critical aero stabilising fins on the front pillars, just forward of the door mirrors.

The optional active rear spoiler is automatically deployed when vehicle speed rises above 80 km/h. This suppresses lift at the rear to give a high degree of stability when driving at speed.

Aero ducts are featured just forward of the rear wheel arches. These feed air into the wheel arch, which then exits smoothly across the sidewall of the tyre. This contributes to the car’s high-speed straight-line stability and steering responsiveness. It also generates improved grip feel from the rear tyres.

The treatment of the underbody has been given equally close attention, with an almost completely smooth finish. Parts are aligned with the aero line, which kicks up towards the rear – notably the silencer is angled upwards, like a diffuser.

INTERIOR DESIGN

The LC’s 2+2 cabin combines elegance, superb comfort, sophistication and intricate attention to detail with a driver-focused cockpit. The area around the front passenger spreads outwards to create a comfortable and welcoming space. The line of the door trim is an extension of an exterior line that flows from the bonnet and through the windscreen, building a sense of continuity between the outside and inside of the car.

The driver’s cockpit is designed to instil confidence with intuitive layout of the controls and an excellent seating position. The driver’s hip point has been located as close as possible to the car’s centre of gravity, maximising direct feedback of the vehicle’s dynamic behaviour. The driver also has a clear view of the road, uncompromised by the seating position thanks to the low bonnet line, the low-profile instrument panel and the location and narrow width of the front pillars.

EASE OF ACCESS

Lexus has ensured getting in and out of the LC is easy and comfortable by providing generous legroom beneath the instrument panel, reducing the height difference between the rocker panel and the vehicle floor and enlarging the door aperture to provide comfortable head space.

STEERING WHEEL AND CONTROLS

Particular attention has been paid to the steering wheel design, with a change in the cross-section around its circumference to allow for variations in grip and twisting of the wrist. New, larger magnesium alloy paddle shifts have been profiled for easier hooking with the fingertips and have a positive and satisfying click action.

The information displays are arranged in order of importance, with the most critical positioned closest to the driver’s sightline, within the dashboard’s upper display zone. All are positioned at the same height, to reduce the degree of eye movement required for the driver to read them. The instrument binnacle features the latest development of the TFT (thin film transistor) meter technology introduced in the Lexus LFA supercar, including a moving central ring.

Driving-related switches and controls are arrayed in a control zone that is concentrated immediately around the steering wheel. These include the paddle shifts, steering wheel combination switches, Drive Mode Select switch, starter button and shift lever, each located for the best ergonomic performance, focusing on easy reach and operation that allow the driver to concentrate on the road ahead with least distraction.

Throughout the cabin, the quality and finish of the upholstery, trim materials and detailing reflect the takumi craftsmanship and fine attention to detail for which Lexus is renowned worldwide. These are witnessed in the hand-stitching of the leather gearshift lever, the draping treatment of the Alcantara door panel trims and the discreet use of the Lexus L motif.

SEAT DESIGN

Providing the driver with a seat with the best possible combination of support and comfort was a focus point in the development of the LC’s cabin. The aim was to deliver an advanced design with excellent holding performance and superb comfort. Lexus has achieved this with a new two-part construction technique in which the main part of the seatback drapes over the shoulder area of the seat and wraps around the back. To ensure superior lateral support, additional bolstering is provided for the driver’s shoulder blade area; resin inserts improve the holding performance of the side bolsters. On the Coupe’s optional sports seats, the bolsters are even more substantial, with a focus on keeping the driver’s back in place during high-speed cornering.

DIRECT SHIFT 10-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

The Direct Shift automatic transmission was designed for the LC 500, a 10-speed unit with close ratios and even spacing between each gear – a Lexus world-first for a passenger car.

An extra gear was added to eliminate the feel of second and third gears being drawn out for too long, and a 10th gear allows for efficient high-speed cruising at lower engine rpm. The system provides some of the world’s quickest shifts, giving a crisp feel, fast response, rhythmic shifting with no “shock” effect and a harmonised engine sound.

In another world-first for Lexus, the transmission uses an AI-SHIFT control with a drive mode switching function. This selects the optimum gear according to its estimation of the driver’s preferences and intentions, based not just on vehicle speed and use of the accelerator, but also from past driving history.

CHASSIS DYNAMICS

• LC Coupe and Convertible constructed on Lexus’ GA-L front engine/rear-wheel drive platform
• Low centre of gravity and superb body rigidity
• Multi-link front and rear suspension
• Lexus Dynamic Handling and limited-slip differential

GLOBAL ARCHITECTURE – LUXURY PLATFORM

The quality of the GA-L platform allowed Lexus to craft a highly rigid body with excellent noise and vibration characteristics. It plays a pivotal role in the LC’s dynamic performance, giving the car a low centre of gravity and enabling the design of a new driving position. Control of vehicle mass, ideal weight distribution and new multi-link suspension systems add to the platform’s essential qualities.

HIGH BODY RIGIDITY

Exceptional body rigidity and careful management of the car’s inertia specifications have delivered just the kind of engaging driving dynamics Lexus sought for its flagship coupe. To gain the best results, materials with different properties have been used in different areas, giving strength, rigidity and light weight in the appropriate measure and in the right place.

To create a strong frame, the non-deforming parts are made of ultra-high-tensile strength steel, while high-tensile steel with good elastic properties is adopted for elements that are designed to deform in an impact. The rigidity of the frame is supported by general steel with a high degree of stiffness, and aluminium is used strategically for its energy-absorbing performance and for external bodywork where its lightness and tensile rigidity are of value. Finally, strong yet lightweight Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) is featured inside and out.

INERTIA SPECIFICATIONS

Precise control of the LC’s inertia specifications played an important part in securing the essential “even sharper, more refined” quality. This included giving the car a low centre of gravity, balanced front-to-rear weight distribution and a good moment of inertia. The GA-L platform allowed the packaging to be reconsidered, to improve the inertia specifications and achieve the best combination of handling stability and ride comfort. Measures included moving the tyres outwards to the corners of the vehicle, reducing overall weight, lowering the driver’s hip point and moving the engine 50 mm rearwards. The removal of the spare tyre in favour of run-flat tyres and relocation of the battery to the luggage compartment further helped balance the car’s weight distribution

By achieving a low centre of gravity, Lexus was able to reduce the roll angle without stiffening the springs and detracting from ride comfort. Overall, the LC displays controlled body motion and precise, linear response, creating a rhythmical and smooth driving experience, notably when cornering and making lane changes.

MULTILINK SUSPENSION

The high-mount front suspension system has an optimal arm design to secure the required level of steering feedback. Conversely, the rear suspension has a low-mount configuration, with precisely defined arm locations to achieve high-stability steering characteristics.

Double ball joints are featured on each of the two upper and two lower control arms, allowing for control of the smallest movements from driver inputs and the road surface. This arrangement helps optimise the suspension geometry and create more precise steering response with better initial effort. The driver can appreciate the effectiveness of the LC’s suspension designs in the car’s immediate response at initial turn-in, with the tyres quickly developing lateral force, delivering stability, controllability and ride comfort.

The LC Coupe and Convertible use run-flat tyres as standard. Tyre sizes are 245/45RF20 front and 275/40RF20 rear with 20-inch wheels, and 245/40RF21 front and 275/35RF21 rear with 21-inch wheels.

LEXUS DYNAMIC HANDLING

The LC Coupe is available with the Lexus Dynamic Handling system (included In the Sport+ specification), which delivers a higher level of handling in all driving scenarios.  It provides four-wheel steering, integrating Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) with the car’s Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), the Adaptive Variable Suspension and the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) to ensure controlled co-operation between the front and rear wheels at all times.

The system allows the rear wheels to turn slightly, in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, giving increased agility, and in the same direction at high speed, for increased stability. The result is excellent steering response in everyday driving, true to the driver’s inputs, with a high feeling of rear tyre grip and instantaneous response in high-speed cornering that give a greater feeling of security.

TORSEN LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL (LSD)

Torsen limited-slip differential is also included in the specification for both the LC 500 Coupe and Convertible. This allows the driver to enjoy secure acceleration while cornering. When used in conjunction with DRS, it will simultaneously control power to the wheels in co-operation with the vehicle stability control, while the DRS controls the steering angle. The LSD will counteract over or understeer and help keep the car to its intended line. At the same time, a natural driving feel is communicated to the driver, even at the limit of performance.

ACTIVE CORNERING ASSIST (ACA)

The standard (non-Sport+) LC 500h Coupe features Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which functions within the Vehicle Stability Control to help keep the car faithful to the driver’s intended line when cornering at higher speeds. The VSC applies brake control to the wheels on the inner side of the curve to help prevent the car from spinning out. The ACA suppresses the tendency to understeer that occurs when the accelerator is pressed in high-G cornering, to achieve superior performance.

The operation of the VSC is co-ordinated with other handling and stability systems through the LC’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) and Lexus Dynamic Handling. This allows control of rear-wheel torque and steering torque in addition to braking, in over and understeer conditions.

REAR PERFORMANCE DAMPER

The LC 500 Coupe and Convertible are fitted with a performance damper, located at the rear bumper reinforcement, optimising the attachment point structure and the damping force. This quickly absorbs twists and small vibrations, enhancing the car’s handling stability and ride comfort.

AVAILABILITY SUMMARY

TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP

• LC quality and performance benefit from the precision skills of Lexus’ takumi master craftspeople
• Motomachi factory provides ideal environment for luxury coupe manufacturing
• High-quality interior materials benefit from hand-finishing and stitching
• Continuous, detailed refinement of driving dynamics

The skills of Lexus’ master craftspeople – the famous takumi – are central to the exceptional quality Lexus delivers in every car it builds.  The LC benefits from this precision approach, not just in the intricate details of its fittings and finishes, but also in the way the car rides and performs.

MOTOMACHI: HOME OF THE LEXUS LFA AND THE LC

The LC Coupe and Convertible are built at Lexus’ Motomachi plant, famously home to production of the hand-crafted LFA supercar. The factory’s lay-out and its facilities have been tailored to production of the LC, to ensure the highest quality levels.

Many of the takumi and skilled workers who built the LFA transferred to the LC project, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, particularly in areas such as the handling of carbon fibre components and hand-finishing.

INTERIOR FINISHING

The skills of the takumi can be seen in precise stitching that maintains a flawless finish where leather spreads across complex surfaces. The draping effect of the Alcantara in the door panels and the arrangement of the perforations in the leather seat upholstery are further hallmarks of the attention to detail.

The shape and feel of the steering wheel – a critical link in communicating the quality of the LC’s performance to the driver – were defined through hours of testing and re-testing by a takumi master driver. His exhaustive analysis produced a highly complex cross-section design and the ideal shape to suit the driver’s changing grip and hand position as they steer. The same process was applied to developing the shape and action of the paddle shifters for manual gear selection, crafted in cool-to-the-touch magnesium alloy.

HIGH-SPEED RESIN TRANSFER MOULDING (RTM)

The finish of the LC’s Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) has a twill weave effect, made possible by a new, high-speed resin transfer moulding (RTM) process, developed at the Motomachi factory from a technique originally used in production of the Lexus LFA. Raw carbon fibre material is inserted into a mould and clamped in place before the insertion of the resin material. As a result, the process has been made suitable for volume production. The use of the CFRP roof makes a major contribution to the LC Coupe’s low centre of gravity and reduces overall weight.

SELF-PIERCING RIVETS

Lexus has adopted a new technique for combining aluminium with steel to help save weight in key areas, notably the construction of the front suspension towers. Using self-piercing rivets allows these different metals to be securely joined where traditional welding methods are unsuitable: in place of spot-welding, the material is pierced on its upper side only.

TESTING BY TAKUMI

The skills and experience of the takumi were further invested in securing excellent driving dynamics.

The sharpness and responsiveness of the steering, the strong, rhythmic progress of the transmission, the supportiveness and comfort of the seats and the position of the driver’s feet and the pedals – all these elements and more were scrutinised to produce the best possible combination, with the goal of not just a rewarding drive, but performance that actively makes you want to drive.

Prototypes were assessed on all kinds of roads, including in Europe and the USA, to ensure that ride and handling meet the different demands of drivers and driving conditions around the world. A takumi master driver worked exclusively on the LC to maintain a complete focus, making fine adjustments to achieve the best results, right up to the start of production.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM +

• All LC models equipped with Lexus Safety System +
• Package of active safety features includes Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane-Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist
• Lexus Safety System+ helps reduce the risk of an accident, alerts the driver to potential hazards and can help reduce the consequences should an impact be unavoidable

All versions of the LC Coupe and Convertible are equipped as standard with Lexus Safety System +, a collection of active safety and driver assistance features that can help the driver avoid an accident, or help lessen the consequences of a collision.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM

The Pre-Collision System (PCS) detects the risk of an impact. Working in unison with warning and braking systems, it can help lessen the damage sustained in a collision. It can recognise both vehicles and pedestrians in the vehicle’s path, using data from a forward recognition camera and a millimetre-wave radar sensor.

If it determines that the possibility of a collision is high, pre-collision warning control and pre-collision brake assist control are initiated. If a collision is imminent, pre-collision braking control will be engaged help reduce the severity of the collision, or avoid it altogether. If the driver fails to react and the system judges a collision to be imminent, the brakes are automatically applied to reduce vehicle speed by up to 40 km/h, which could potentially bring the car to a stop, to help mitigate the force of an impact.

DYNAMIC RADAR CRUISE CONTROL

The same radar unit used by the PCS provides the LC with all-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). This helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, down to very low speeds, even to a standstill. Once the way ahead is clear, the LC automatically and smoothly accelerates to its pre-set cruising speed. If the car has been brought to a halt, the driver simply needs to press the accelerator briefly to reactivate the system.

LANE KEEP ASSIST, LANE DEPARTURE ALERT AND VEHICLE SWAY WARNING

The LC’s Lexus Safety System + package includes Advanced Lane Keep Assist, which recognises when the vehicle is deviating from its lane on the highway. It helps the driver steer the vehicle safely back to its correct path, automatically providing steering inputs to keep the car within its lane. Working with the DRCC, it can operate even at very low vehicle speeds. The driver can also choose which alert they prefer (warning sound or vibrating steering wheel) and the sensitivity of the warning, via the multi-information display. The system can also be switched off, if desired.

Lane Departure Alert (LDA) uses a camera on the windscreen to track the vehicle’s course between lane markings painted on the road surface. If it judges that the vehicle is about to move out of its lane without the turn indicator being used, the system triggers a light on the multi-information display and sounds a warning buzzer. It will also apply appropriate steering control force to help bring the vehicle back on course.

A Sway Warning function monitors the car’s position in its lane and the driver’s steering inputs. If it detects degrees of vehicle swaying, it will sound an alert and display a warning on the multi-information display, recommending the driver takes a break.

AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAM

Lexus Safety System + includes Automatic High Beam (AHB), which detects oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead and automatically switches the headlights between high and low beam. This helps maximise illumination and give the driver the best possible field of vision when the road ahead is clear, while minimising the risk of dazzling other road users.

ROAD SIGN ASSIST

With Road Sign Assist the driver gains a “second set of eyes” when it comes to important road signs on motorways and major routes. The system uses a front camera which recognises principal warning and command signs; these are then replicated on the multi-information display, reducing the risk of the driver not being aware of speed limits, lane closures and other important information.

If the system detects the driver is not respecting no overtaking, no entry and speed limit commands, it will give visual and audible alerts. The driver can customise the system’s operation via the multi-information display, using switches on the steering wheel.

AUDIO SYSTEMS

• Thirteen-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Product audio system option
• Twelve-speaker Pioneer premium audio surround system for real-life immersive soundscape

MARK LEVINSON

The LC Coupe and Convertible maintain Lexus’ auto-industry exclusive partnership with Mark Levinson, offering customers option equipment from the audio specialist’s top-of-the-range Reference Product.

The 13-speaker speaker system was designed specifically to achieve the best results within the LC’s cabin. Mark Levinson engineers also supported Lexus requirements for low vehicle weight, achieving an overall 30% reduction in speaker weight, without compromising performance.

The speakers use advanced materials and construction techniques to achieve the best results, including the first application of Direct Drive Unity, a speaker-within-a-speaker concept that allows sound quality and pressure level to be maximised in a compact design. The system also uses Clari-Fi music restoration that automatically analyses and improves the quality of all types of compressed, digital music sources.

PIONEER

The LC Coupe and Convertible are equipped as standard with a 12-speaker Pioneer premium audio surround system. Specifically designed for the LC, this system includes four 9 cm CST (Coherent Source Transducer) double speakers, combining tweeter and mid-range functions, located at the base of the front pillars and in the rear cabin side panels. The two 16 cm woofers in the front doors are contained in a special housing to reduce vibrations, resulting in excellent low-frequency sound generation. Other elements include a 9 cm midrange speaker in the centre of the instrument panel, a 25 cm subwoofer in the back of the rear seats, and an eight-channel Class-D amplifier under the luggage compartment floor.

From advanced paint technology to the shape of the door handle and even the rivets used in putting the car together, the LC brings together a wealth of intriguing elements. Each one is an example of the painstaking attention to detail and craftsmanship quality that Lexus invests in every model it makes.

Structural blue: natural world colour created with paint technology

When you look at the brilliant blue of a tropical butterfly, the intense colour you see isn’t actually in the insect’s wings. It’s created by the way they reflect light. This is how Structural Blue came to be created, a paintwork colour made with a pigment containing micro-particles that mimic the light reflection, the phenomenon found in the natural world. Look at the LC directly, and the blue is strikingly vibrant. Move your gaze to an angle and the shade becomes perceptibly darker – an effect that highlights the coupe’s dramatic curves. So complex is the paint process, just three cars a day can be painted, and production has been limited to only 300 examples.

Spindle grille: interpreting a signature Lexus design detail

The spindle grille is a design feature of every new Lexus, each one designed to capture the essential character of each model. Where the LC Coupe is concerned, the grille comprises of hundreds of individual block shapes that form a mesh with a strong 3D effect. The pattern changes in size and visual tension from the bottom to the top. The design doesn’t sit in isolation, in fact it generates dynamic lines that flow back through the bodywork to the rear of the car. And if you have an eye for detail, you’ll notice the grille’s chrome outer frame doesn’t extend across the top. Instead there’s a break that draws the bonnet itself into the spindle design.

LED headlights: compact brilliance

Lexus applied a new technology to create ultra-compact LED headlights for the LC, using a Polaric Ellipsoid System (PES) lens that is less than half the size in diameter of a normal LED lamp. Although small, they provide excellent illumination and allow for a slim and elegant headlight unit. Each contains three projector LEDs and daytime running lights arranged in Lexus’ signature lamp design.

Door trims: design excellence

The impact of the LC’s design isn’t confined to its dramatic bodywork. Equal attention was paid to perfecting the coupe’s cabin, notably the door trims. These have a draped effect with flowing, incised lines that create an attractive shadowplay. The use of chrome detailing and contrasting upholstery materials add a high tactile quality, and contribute to the luxurious ambience.

Door handles: functional beauty

The LC features Lexus’ first flush-fitting door handles. When the door is closed, nothing protrudes from the door’s surface, so there’s no interruption in the sculpted lines of the bodywork and no impact on the car’s aerodynamic performance. When the handle is presented, the surface of the door immediately below is illuminated for 15 seconds; when the door is closed, the light fades gently before being extinguished.

Rear air ducts: aerodynamic detailing

It’s usual to think that a car’s air ducts are necessary for cooling, but on the Lexus LC they also play a part in perfecting aerodynamic performance. The rear inlets located just behind the doors, smooth the flow of air down the side of the vehicle, so there’s less disturbance and noise. For the driver, this increases the feel of the rear tyres being in full contact with the ground, while also contributing the coupe’s excellent handling and driving performance.

Manhattan Orange: coloured by New York City

For 2020, Lexus introduced an exciting new colour option for the LC’s interior. Called Manhattan Orange, it’s inspired by the famous Manhattan Henge – the brilliant natural light effect that occurs twice a year when the setting sun aligns perfectly with the city’s famous grid pattern of streets. Inside the coupe, it creates an exclusive and avant garde feeling.

Self-piercing rivets: innovation on the production line

You can’t see the self-piercing rivets that are used to help make the LC Coupe, but you will certainly appreciate the benefits they bring in making the car stronger and stiffer. These qualities are key to responsive handling and better protection in an impact. The rivets are an innovative method for securely joining different metals together when conventional welding can’t be used. In the LC they are used to join aluminium and steel in the car’s underbody, located with laser guides to ensure perfect accuracy.

Paddle shifters: feel connected to every drive

Lexus wants every driver to feel completely at one with the car when they take the wheel of the LC, so a human-focused approach has been taken to every detail. That includes the design of the paddle shifters that let the driver take control of the gear shifts. They’re crafted in cool, tactile magnesium and shaped so that they’re instinctive to use when the driver’s hands are in different positions around the steering wheel. Their top-quality design and construction ensure they keep their superior finish and feel.

Body materials: building in strength, saving weight

The LC Coupe isn’t only a perfectly balanced car, it’s also constructed using different metals and materials to provide strength and save weight. It’s important to use the right material in the right place, so the bonnet and front wings are made from aluminium, which saves weight and reduces the risk of injuries to pedestrians. The doors use a mixture of materials, including a sheet-moulded carbon fibre composite (CSMC) and aluminium. This construction saves about half the weight of a conventional car door, contributing to the LC’s low centre of gravity and excellent handling performance.

Lexus’ flagship coupe has always aimed to provide “even sharper, more refined” performance, ever since its original concept was designed. Changes introduced for the 2021 model year deliver greater responsiveness, handling stability and agility, strengthening the driver’s feeling of being directly connected to the car and delivering an exhilarating driving experience.

To achieve its goals, Lexus has made changes to the LC’s suspension system, saving weight and improving ride and handling quality. Detailed adjustments have also been made to LC 500h’s Multi Stage Hybrid system and the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. The coupe’s steering has also been revised and the brakes have been tuned to communicate a better feel to the driver.

SUSPENSION: LESS WEIGHT, SMOOTHER PERFORMANCE

Changes to the LC’s front and rear suspension have reduced the car’s unsprung weight by around 10kg, thanks to the use of forged aluminium for the lower arms; thinner, hollow anti-roll bars; and a new high-strength material for the coil springs. The springs themselves have been made stronger (increasing in pressure from 1,200 MPa to 1,300 MPa).

The weight reduction contributes to the coupe’s dynamic performance, while further updates to the suspension to give a softer, smoother stroke add to the stronger feel the driver has of the car being firmly planted on the road. In the front suspension, the electronic shock absorbers have been reprogrammed for a longer stroke, while the rigidity of the bound stoppers (front and rear) has been optimised, giving overall smoother performance with less disturbance from fluctuations in the road surface.

By adjusting the roll rigidity of the anti-roll bars, Lexus has also improved the LC’s turn-in manoeuvrability, giving more linear response and again promoting a sense of unity between car and driver.

TRANSMISSION TUNED FOR A MORE REWARDING DRIVE

Lexus has used big data to improve the drive force characteristics of the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, to achieve even more faithful responses to the driver’s intentions. With more drive force generated as engine speed increases, the driver feels a real sense of powerful torque and continuous acceleration.

The focus was the “active zone” – the 50 to 70% throttle range that accounts for most driving – with the transmission allowing revs to rise higher before shifting into the next gear. The effect is enhanced by the rising note of the V8 engine.

The technical adjustments also yield smoother acceleration and allow for an automatic downshift to second gear (instead of third) when braking to take a corner. Similarly, shift performance has been improved for acceleration out of a corner.

IMPROVED HYBRID BATTERY PERFORMANCE

The revised LC 500h benefits from a new control in the high-voltage lithium-ion hybrid battery that increases its operating range and allows more torque to be developed by the electric motor. This helps provide more powerful acceleration, both when negotiating urban streets, or driving on winding roads. For example, even with moderate (30%) pressure on the accelerator pedal, there is 90 Nm more torque output and battery output rises up to 17 kW, while vehicle speed increases by an extra 4 km/h after 4.5 seconds.”

BRAKING AND STEERING

Lexus has adopted larger brake pads with a higher friction coefficient for the LC Coupe to gain more effective braking performance and stability at high temperatures and speeds. The system continues to use front and rear ventilated discs with opposed six-piston aluminium monobloc callipers at the front and four-piston units at the rear. The black callipers are decorated with the Lexus logo in white.

In a detailed touch, even the surface of the brake pedal has been revised to provide a larger contact area, giving a more natural feel for the driver.

The addition of extra reinforcements and bracing has increased the steering support rigidity, helping achieve better handling stability. The measures include reinforcement of the instrument panel and a higher-rigidity surface for the upper and lower steering support joints, plus changes to the bracing for the driver’s seat and cowl. Software updates for the Variable Gear Ratio Steering, Dynamic Rear Steering and the electric power steering have further sharpened responsiveness.

V8 SOUND QUALITY

The sound generated by the LC 500’s V8 powertrain is all part of the quality of the driving experience and Lexus has changed the location of the valve that determines the route of the exhaust gases in the main silencer to achieve the ideal note. This makes its presence felt at start-up and at high engine revs (from around 4,000 rpm), while performance is quiet when cruising.

It is an essential quality of Lexus that every model in its range is subject to continuous improvement, with engineers constantly exploring ways to hone and enhance every detail. This painstaking approach has delivered the new 2021 model year LC, marking an evolution in the luxury motoring qualities of Lexus’ flagship coupe. The detailed refinements reinforce the connection between driver and machine, enhance ride and handling, offer new styling choices and upgrade the capabilities of the multimedia system.

KEY CHANGES FOR 2021

The changes implemented for the 2021 LC 500 further sharpen the coupe’s performance. Significantly, the car’s unsprung weight has been reduced by almost 10 kg, accomplished principally with changes to the suspension, including the use of aluminium lower arms, lighter, hollow anti-roll bars with a revised diameter and a new high-strength material for the coil springs. Where specified, the 21-inch forged alloy wheels also have a lighter construction.

Once the weight-savings had been made, the focus was on updating the suspension for a smoother, softer stroke to give the driver a stronger feel of the road. The electronic front shock absorber controls were adjusted to give a longer stroke, and bound stopper rigidity was optimised to help create a smoother suspension stroke overall. Rear anti-roll bar rigidity was increased to improve front turn-in performance and provide more linear steering input, again helping make the driver feel more connected to the road.

For better vehicle control in mid to high-speed ranges, the LC’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) has gained a new Active Cornering Assist (ACA) function. This helps control cornering by providing braking to the inner wheels in line with lateral vehicle acceleration experienced when higher G-forces are generated in spirited driving.

TRANSMISSION AND HYBRID SYSTEM UPDATES

Lexus has made changes to the logic patterns in the LC 500’s 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission with the aim of improving day-to-day driving in what its engineers refer to as the “active zone” – commonly where drivers are using the 50 to 70% throttle range. The direct-shift transmission allows engine revs to increase in the range to heighten the feeling of acceleration before shifting into the next gear.

The downshifting mode in the LC 500h’s Multi Stage Hybrid System has also been updated. It will now downshift to second rather than third for smoother operation and more robust acceleration out of sharp bends.

NO-COMPROMISE DESIGN

The LC coupe is the most passionate expression of Lexus design, captured strongly in the mesh spindle grille that extends across the front of the car. A large glass panel and blacked-out rear pillars create the effect of a floating roof, while chrome mouldings echo the curving lines of the traditional Japanese katana sword. The range includes the option of a CFRP composite roof for an even more powerful look.

The rear light clusters are one of the most distinctive design elements, their night-time illumination signature inspired by the afterburners of a jet. At the front, the ultra-compact triple-LED units are not only striking in appearance, they are half the size of conventional headlights.

DISTINCTIVE CRAFTSMANSHIP

The LC strikes an impressive balance between function and comfort, sporting intent and luxury. In the cabin the low-set instrument panel and the narrow front pillars give the driver a commanding view of the road ahead. The door panels’ flowing lines generate a sense of design continuity, extending exterior styling that flows from the bonnet through the windscreen.

Exterior colour choices include Blazing Carnelian, new for the 2021 model year, and Terrane Khaki, which was previously reserved for the LC Limited Edition. Other shades include F White, Dark Grey, Sonic Silver, Sonic Titanium, Solid Black, Radiant Red, Flare Yellow and Deep Blue.

The seats, exclusive to the LC, feel as good as they look. Their two-part construction provides a seatback that drapes over the shoulders and then wraps around the back, with a structure designed to hold the driver securely when cornering at speed.

The driving experience is further enhanced by a steering wheel with a cross-section that varies in shape around its circumference, allowing variations in grip and twisting of the wrist. For the front passenger, the side of the centre console rises to form an integrated grab handle.

The quality finish of the upholstery, trim materials and detailing is an expression of Lexus’ world-renowned takumi craftsmanship. It can be seen and felt in the hand-stitching of the leather-wrapped shift level and draping treatment of the Alcantara door panel trim, among many other details.

The interior colour schemes include new Flare Red and Manhattan Orange leather options for the 2021 model year, the former replacing the previous Dark Rose. Other leather shades include Black and Ochre.

HIGH PERFORMANCE

Right from start-up the LC 500’s V8 engine signals its potential with a full-throated engine note generated through the variable Active Exhaust system. The engine has a power output of 464 DIN hp/351 kW and can move the car from rest to 100 km/h in less than 4.7 seconds.

The 5.0-litre engine is matched to a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, newly updated to provide an even stronger sense of connection between driver and machine.

IMPRESSIVE AND EFFICIENT HYBRID POWER

Fifteen years on from Lexus’ introduction of the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle, the LC 500h is maintaining that tradition of innovation as the first Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid. As with other Lexus hybrid powertrains, a petrol engine is combined with two electric motor/generators.

The Atkinson cycle 3.5-litre V6 engine uses D-4S direct fuel injection to achieve optimum efficiency, and its lightweight valvetrain with Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve-timing ensures ample torque across all engine speeds. The system retains the planetary-type continuously variable transmission familiar from Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive, but adds a four-speed automatic transmission to the system. Working in concert, the two gear sets alter output in four stages to optimise engine performance across the entire speed range.

When the driver selects M mode, the gears sets work together to create the effect of 10 gear ratios, generating a highly engaging driving feel and enabling the driver to move through the ratios using paddle shifts. In automatic mode, AI shift control matches gear selection to the driving conditions and the driver’s inputs. The Multi Stage Hybrid System allows for more electric assistance at lower vehicle speeds and enabling the car to be driven at speeds up to 140 km/h with the petrol engine switched off.

The combined system output is 359 DIN hp/264 kW. With the benefit of the Multi Stage Hybrid System, power from the V6 engine and electric motor can be amplified by the four-speed automatic transmission, giving much greater drive power when accelerating.

The LC 500h uses a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery that is located neatly between the rear seats and the luggage compartment. It has a high power density, with 84 cells producing 310.8 volts.

UPDATED MULTIMEDIA

The LC’s multimedia features are controlled via a 10.3-inch high-resolution screen with a split-screen facility that allows different functions, including audio and climate controls, to be viewed and operated simultaneously.

For the 2021 model year, all LC models are equipped as standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®, allowing for easy, wireless smartphone integration and access to popular apps for navigation, entertainment and messaging. With Android Auto, the Google Assistant can be used and tailored information can be sourced based on the user’s calendar, previous activity and established preferences.

Apple CarPlay allows customers to access the familiar interface from their iPhone® through the vehicle’s multimedia display. An iPhone can be connected to obtain journey directions, make calls, send and receive message via Siri®, and gain access to apps such as Spotify, Audible and Apple podcasts.

ADVANCED SAFETY AND DRIVER SUPPORT

All LC 500 and 500h models are equipped with Lexus Safety System+ as standard. This includes Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition and Automatic High Beam. Further safeguards against common collision risks include a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

^{*Please contact your local Lexus representative for the availability}

It will be the third participation for Lexus LC in the Nürburgring 24 Hours. The team will use what it has learnt in the past two years to improve the car’s performance by adopting a variety of new technologies, including a newly-developed V8 twin-turbo engine destined for use on future road cars such as sports cars.

Competing in the Nürburgring 24 Hours Race with the Lexus LC will also enable the company to implement other advanced technologies planned for use in future road cars:

• Body development (optimal low-weight and high-rigidity body structure, enhanced aerodynamic components, and driver assistance technology)
• Suspension development (low-weight and high-rigidity suspension, lightweight wheels, high-response shock absorbers)
• Driving control development (advancement in various control systems such as Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control and ABS systems)

LC will be driven by a team of well experienced drivers. Hiroaki Ishiura, who will join the race for the sixth time, will be the chief driver and compete alongside Masahiro Sasaki, Kazuya Oshima, and Naoya Gamo.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to compete in the 2020 Nürburgring 24 Hours Race”, Hiroaki Ishiura commented. “As I haven’t competed in the race at Nürburgring for some time, I am very excited, but I also feel some responsibility as the setting leader. This project has accumulated considerable expertise through continuous car making every year, and we hope to use that expertise to develop even faster and safer cars that everyone can enjoy. There are many elements that can be refined only under the harsh environment of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring Race, and I think this gives great meaning to taking on this challenge. By combining everyone’s strengths to refine the Lexus LC, I hope to provide feedback for reliable car making, accumulate technologies, and contribute to “making ever-better cars”. I look forward to receiving your support.”

The Nürburgring 24 Hours Race is held at the Nürburgring in May every year, a track in central Germany that is widely regarded as the world's most gruelling course. 2020 will mark the company’s 14^th consecutive year of participation at the Nürburgring 24 Hours Race, using race cars built by employees and raced by a team of company mechanics and engineers.

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The LC line-up is representative of Lexus’ evolution towards becoming a luxury lifestyle brand, providing driving pleasure and excitement to enrich customers’ lifestyles. The new LC 500 Convertible joins the coupe as aspirational halo models for the entire Lexus line-up, providing unique driving experiences that stimulate the senses, and express ultimate beauty.

The exterior of the new LC artfully blends the coupe’s unique roofline with the character of a convertible, achieving beauty with the top open or closed. The interior design considers how details such as the tonneau cover and seating materials become part of the design impression when viewed from the outside.

The new model follows the coupe’s ‘Exhilarating Performance’ driving signature, providing a sense of unity with nature and an exhilarating driving experience that can only be enjoyed with a convertible.

The interior body structure has optimal placement and shape of braces to yield high dynamic performance faithful to the driver’s intentions. And thanks to the car’s robust and sensual sounding V8, the LC 500 Convertible accelerates in a pleasantly linear manner. To further enhance the driving experience, the LC 500 Convertible comes equipped with neck heaters and a transparent wind deflector – supporting the leading comfort and quiet that is Lexus’ DNA.

The new LC 500 Convertible is scheduled to go on sale in summer 2020.

MAIN FEATURES OF THE LC 500 CONVERTIBLE

A stunning design with the top up or down, featuring Lexus’ signature attention to detail

• With the exterior styling based on that of the LC coupe, the convertible retains excellent aerodynamic performance and optimal weight distribution, incorporating functional beauty into the design. The soft-top roof provides a unique silhouette and sporty disposition befitting a convertible. The line of the rear trunk lid has been lifted and widened to create a dynamic side view and emphasize the low-and-wide stance.
• To ensure that the convertible version of the LC 500 retains a beautiful silhouette when the top is lowered, the automatic folding mechanism stores the top under an integrated tonneau cover. Because the designers incorporated a beltline that kicks up at the end of the doors, the vehicle’s profile is characterized by a body that wraps around the cabin, providing an overall tight and clean appearance.
• The 4-layer soft top has been designed to retain the flowing roofline of the coupe, without the supporting frame visible through the fabric. Furthermore, the fabric of the roof has been carefully selected and manufactured to ensure optimal tension and no wrinkling, with improved sound insulation.
• The colour palettes of the exterior and the soft top, as well as the elegant hues of the interior, were carefully selected and combined to cater to the LC customer’s high sense of style, taste and diverse lifestyles.
• The interior features details such as gradating quilting and perforation pattern on the upper portion of the seats, as well as the “L” logo embossed on the back of headrests.
• When opening and closing the soft top, the movement is carefully controlled especially at the beginning and end to yield a sense of quality and safety for the driver. The movement of the top and the tonneau cover have been precisely synched to achieve an elegant and natural movement, while ensuring class-leading opening and closing speeds.
• The roof can be opened or closed while the vehicle is traveling at up to 50 km/h, and an animation display within the instrument gauges allows the driver to easily monitor the top’s operation progress.

Fusion of the Lexus driving signature ‘Exhilarating Performance’ with a convertible driving experience

• The body structure of the LC 500 Convertible was newly designed to achieve a rigidity level supporting Lexus driving signature equal to the Coupe, while simultaneously offering both beautiful styling and sufficient luggage space.
• Thanks to the strategic placement and shape of the rear suspension tower brace, the car’s structural rigidity has been significantly enhanced. The brace is composed of lightweight die cast aluminium to minimize added weight, and a performance damper is adopted for high-quality ride comfort. Other braces are located under the body, and materials such as magnesium and aluminium are used to achieve both high rigidity and light weight. The result is dynamic performance faithful to the driver's intentions.
• The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, mated to the DirectShift-10 automatic transmission, gives the LC linear-yet-invigorating acceleration. Power output is tuned according to the driving scene, with smooth acceleration character during normal commuting, and acceleration at the limit when the driver desires.
• In order to make the LC 500 Convertible’s V8 more enjoyable when the top is down, a sound generator transmits sensual engine intake sounds through the dash panel, while an exhaust valve enhances the powerful engine sound.

Thoughtful in-cabin experience reflecting Lexus’ “Human Centered” philosophy

• In order to create a space to feel with excitement of open-air driving without hindering conversation in the car, we focused on aerodynamics such as the beltline and rear moulding. In combination with the transparent polycarbonate wind deflector, wind flow inside the car is suppressed and excellent quietness is achieved.
• Sound management is a key part of Lexus’ DNA, and the interior space of the LC 500 Convertible stimulates the senses with emotional engine sounds. Active Noise Control (ANC), combined with sound insulation and absorption techniques, suppresses unwanted noises and unpleasant sound frequencies.
• The audio system faithfully reproduces the original sounds of each instrument, vocals, and recording environment. Additionally, the acoustic design automatically changes with the top up or down, providing an acoustic space that can be enjoyed in every situation.
• The Lexus Climate Concierge is used to automatically control air conditioning, seat heaters, neck heaters, and steering wheel heater, all while considering whether the top is up or down - making the convertible version of the LC 500’s cabin comfortable for its passengers regardless of the temperature outside.

LC500 Convertible dimensions and specifications

• Overall length: 4,760 mm
• Overall width: 1,920 mm
• Overall height: 1,350 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,870 mm
• Roof operation: Open: 15 sec / close: 16 sec

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A style icon since its introduction three years ago, the Lexus LC adds another layer of sophistication this year with the introduction of the 2020 Lexus LC Limited Edition.

Blending the sensational lines of the LC with a classic colour palette, this new limited-production LC aims to evoke a more refined, mature coupe without giving up any of the modern performance, technology and style that makes it so desirable.

The transformation starts with its distinctive Terrane Khaki paint, an exclusive Limited Edition colour for the LC. Subtle in its depth of colour, yet eye catching at a glance, the distinctive shade of green compliments every angle of the LC’s stunning design. A set of 21 -inch, two-tone wheels complete the look that elevates the LC’s style profile to another level.

The interior of the LC Limited Edition is equally striking thanks to a two-tone colour scheme that highlights the exceptional design and craftsmanship found in every LC. The 10-way power adjustable seats are trimmed in aniline leather, the softest, highest-grade leather available in the Lexus line-up. The rich Bespoke Saddle Tan colour is unique to the Limited Edition and is complimented by a slightly darker shade of Alcantara® trim on the door panels that adds a soft, inviting feel to the cabin.

In contrast with the tan seats, dark Black Amber leather is used on the steering wheel, dashboard, centre console and doors. Brown stitching ties the darker leather together with the seats in addition to highlighting the fanatical precision of each stitch.

The finishing touch for each 2020 Lexus LC Limited Edition is a custom sill plate that marks the limited edition nature of each car. Drawing from the geometric shapes found in the rear brake lights, the laser cut plates function as a subtle reminder of this car’s rarity every time you open the door.

There are no mechanical changes to the LC, whether it’s the amazingly responsive LC 500 - with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine and Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission; or the cars Self-Charging Hybrid version - LC 500h that features the world’s first four-stage Multi Stage Hybrid System; a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine combined with an advanced electric motor.

In addition to the hero colour - Terrane Khaki - the Limited Edition is also available in Graphite Black and Sonic Titanium

The 2020 Lexus LC 500 Limited Edition arrives in European showrooms in October 2019.

Lexus is to extend its exquisite LC flagship coupe range, with confirmation today that a dramatically styled open-top version is to go into production in the near future.

Visitors to this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK will witness the world debut of an LC convertible prototype in action, when it appears on the famous hill course (July 4 to 7). The new model will take its place among some of the world’s most exclusive and prestigious new cars at the world-famous showcase for the finest modern and classic sports cars.

The future convertible sports coupe will broaden Lexus’ luxury lifestyle offerings, broadening the LC line-up and giving a sense of a completeness to the brand’s flagship models.

The LC has quickly become established as one of the most sought-after and internationally acclaimed models Lexus has ever created, thanks to its combination of striking design, fine craftsmanship and exhilarating performance. The potential evolution of the range to include a convertible was signposted at the North American International Auto Show in January, where Lexus revealed the LC Convertible Concept. The concept’s design goal was to express ‘Ultimate Beauty’, and it provoked an enthusiastic response from both industry experts and the public. Like the LC itself, the concept car was honoured on its debut with a prestigious EyesOn Design Award.

Long, low and lean, the LC convertible will share the coupe’s athletic proportions, but project its own, distinct identity. Its large wheels and short overhangs will signal its performance pedigree and rewarding driving experience. The prototype model will carry masking at Goodwood, teasing the design detail and dynamic capabilities of the full production version.

Professional race driver Nick Cassidy will drive LC convertible prototype up the hill at Goodwood Festival of Speed. Nick is currently with LEXUS TEAM KeePer TOM’S competing in the GT500 class of the Super GT series in Japan. Beginning at Goodwood, the prototype LC convertible will take to different venues, gathering feedback for the engineers.

Describing his deep feeling for this moment, Lexus International Executive Vice President Koji Sato said: “The Goodwood Festival of Speed celebrates the history and culture of the automobile, and serves as a gathering place for some of history’s most notable cars and drivers. Lexus is honoured to join this festival, and I could not be happier to unveil this prototype model of the LC Convertible here at the same venue where the LC coupe made its debut in 2016.”

Detailed specifications and timings for the LC convertible’s market introduction will be announced at a later date.

At Lexus’ Motomachi plant, in Japan’s Aichi prefecture, the LC luxury coupe is produced by a team of Takumi master craftsmen and exceptionally skilled workers, who apply their wealth of knowledge in every step of the manufacturing process. Combining the finest craftsmanship with innovative technologies, Motomachi is one of the most sophisticated car factories in the world. With its distinctively high-tech feel, it is no surprise that it was at this pioneering plant that many of the same engineers and specialists hand-built the iconic LFA supercar. Now, the craftsmen are using the skills that they acquired in the production of the LFA – such as the development of carbon-fiber components and the expert hand-finishing – to manufacture the LC according to the same quality standards and vigorous care.

From body fabrication to test drive, the eight Takumi and other workers each specialize in a specific step of the manufacturing process behind the LC. The team demonstrates a hands-on approach and rigorous precision throughout. At the heart of the brand’s DNA sits the idea that the human touch, mind and spirit are critical in injecting emotion into every Lexus. For this reason, the Motomachi plant has been designed to serve the greatest machine ever created: the human body.

The tools used by the team conform to the latest in technology, engineered to achieve the highest level of craftsmanship. There are tablets with checklists to hand, designed to improve the production, which includes capturing flaws and making sure that no step in the chain is overlooked. For example, at the end of the panel construction and body welding processes – among the first steps in the production of an LC – a master craftsman evaluates the alignment accuracy of the chassis with his well-trained eyes and touch; it is an in-depth process that numbers more than 800 individual checks, so he is assisted by electronic sensors to verify the weld integrity of each part. At the Lexus plant, the execution of the most delicate tasks lies in the harmonious interplay between craftsman and technology. Since machines can only detect flaws that they have been trained to identify, the craftsman can achieve a higher degree of precision because he has the power to recognize imperfections that may never have been seen before.

Lighting is another crucial factor for guaranteeing the best quality, allowing the craftsmen at Motomachi to detect the smallest of defects. The specially tailored assembly line has an all-white finish from floor to ceiling, providing an immaculate, perfectly organized work environment that maximizes the team’s focus. Everything has its rightful place within the brightly lit plant to ensure that in the unlikely event an object is misplaced it will stand out.

At the end of the assembly, the LC moves into a futuristic light-filled glass booth for a detailed inspection of 700 individual check points by two of the most skilled craftsmen. Inside the glass booth, there are precisely spaced LED light bars, which, after a number of meticulous trials and revision rounds, have been placed at 30cm intervals as the test results showed that this is the best spacing for the human eye to detect defect. Under the glow of these ideally-spaced LED lights, the craftsmen scrutinize details that are not even seen by customers, such as the precision finish of all exterior and interior surfaces, the color evenness and the operation of working parts. They use their senses to effectively evaluate each vehicle.

Besides the availability of advanced tools and optimal lighting conditions, the reduction of noise inside the inspection booth allows the team to perform the most thorough of inspections necessary for delivering the perfect car. With the thick glass walls of the booth providing complete silence, the craftsmen’s sense of hearing is especially astute: they check the smooth operation of functional parts such as the opening and closing of the doors and windows by listening out for small abnormal sounds. In this pristine, all-silent environment, in which you could even hear a pin drop, craftsmanship can thrive at its fullest.

The final stage before a Lexus reaches the customer is a test drive on a purpose-built track by a craftsman trained in performance driving. This final point is yet another manifestation of the brand’s belief in the power of the attention to details that only humans – the greatest machine ever created – can provide: Lexus relies on the master’s highly sensitive touch for assessing vehicle feedback through the steering wheel and making sure that all parts are working securely. It is through this perfect marriage between expert craftsmanship and emotion, state-of-the-art technology and a pristine work environment that Lexus creates amazing experiences, delivering some of the finest cars ever built.

The prototype sports a colour called 'Space orange', which is inspired by the orange tones that can be seen when looking towards the sun in clear sunsets.

This spectacular colour, with a matte finish, allows the LC 500h to project an even more powerful personality, further enhanced by the striking 21-inches semi-matt black wheels and the carbon-fibre roof and active rear spoiler.

The use of the colour 'Space Orange' continues inside the cabin, where it is featured as a contrasting element on the instrument panel, the steering wheel and the sides of the doors.

The LC 500h ‘Matte prototype’ incorporates Lexus’ advanced self-charging multi-stage hybrid system, a unique offering in its segment. Lexus's renowned self-charging hybrid technology allows the LC 500h to recharge while driving, without any need for cables or plugs. Its motorization stands out for its efficiency, reduced consumption, low noise and softness.

The Fuji GT 500km race, Round 2 of the 2019 AUTOBACS SUPER GT series, took place at Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka Prefecture on May 4th. Rain began to fall just before the race’s start and then stronger rain in the early going caused the race to be halted for a time. When the weather improved to allow a restart, what followed was exciting racing throughout that finally ended with a GT500 class victory for the No. 38 ZENT CERUMO LC500 (Yuji Tachikawa/Hiroaki Ishiura).

“It was a battle we could not lose with concentration from beginning to end, and overall it was a good race”, Yuji Tachikawa commented. “This season, we implemented a new structure in our team. There is a new responsibility for me and also pressure that we really need to win. We finished with a tough result for the first race, and TRD and the team made huge efforts, so we raced with a new mind set: where else could we win if we don’t win Fuji! We are happy we realized this. In yesterday’s qualifying, we could not choose the right tires and started in the middle of the grid. We had no idea what was going to happen in the rain, but it was good that we were able to come into the front at the beginning. After the track became dry, we had to concentrate until the very end to race with our rivals.”

This victory marked the first win of the No. 38 ZENT CERUMO LC500 since the 2017 Round 2 race at Fuji, as well as the 19^th career win for Yuji Tachikawa and the 6^th for Hiroaki Ishiura.

This season, Lexus is represented by 6 teams running LC 500 in the GT500 Class of the Super GT championship, and 3 teams running RC F GT3 in the GT300 Class.

For more information please visit: https://supergt.net/news/single/19056

Lexus is introducing a dazzling new addition to its LC flagship coupe range with the launch of the new LC Yellow Edition. True to its name it sports a vibrant Flare Yellow paint finish that shows off the LC’s award-winning styling to excellent effect.

The special colour theme continues in the cabin, where the black door panels are enhanced by warm yellow Alcantara inserts. The warm yellow shade is also featured in contrast stitching details on the white leather seats, instrument panel, steering wheel and centre console arm rest, exemplifying the takumi craftsmanship that is a distinguishing feature of Lexus luxury. The cabin also features a driver’s head-up display, an Alcantara headlining and 10-way power adjustment for the front seats in semi-aniline leather.

Head-turning looks aside, the LC Yellow Edition benefits from advanced performance and handling features that are part of the LC Sport+ specification. Agile, secure handling and superb responsiveness are delivered thanks to Lexus Dynamic Handling and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) with four-wheel steering, which independently controls front and rear wheel steering angles, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. These advanced systems allow the driver to fully exploit the full potential of the LC’s GA-L global architecture platform with its excellent balance and low centre of gravity.

Special external features include 21-inch forged alloy wheels and a roof and active rear spoiler crafted in lightweight-yet-strong carbon fibre reinforced plastic. The spoiler plays a specific role in maintaining vehicle stability, automatically deploying at speeds above 80 km/h.

Yellow Edition versions of both the LC 500h, with Lexus’ revolutionary self-charging Multi Stage Hybrid System, and the LC 500, powered by a 464 DIN hp naturally aspirated V8 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission, will be available.

The LC Yellow Edition will be displayed on the Lexus stand at Paris Motor Show in October. Customer deliveries will be from the autumn of this year.

The Paris Motor Show will host the world debut of the new Lexus RC luxury sports coupe on October 2. Its reveal precedes the start of European sales of the new model from late 2018.

Ever since its launch in 2014, the RC has played a key role in Lexus’ strategy to bring a stronger emotional quality to its vehicles. The new reimagined RC blends further comfort refinements with the latest Lexus signature design cues and sharper driving dynamics, drawing its inspiration from the LC flagship luxury coupe. The sporty appearance with its new-found elegance and engaging driving character, make the new RC exciting and more accessible entry point to Lexus coupe ownership.

The imaginative concept of #SharpYetSmooth will replace the classic on-stand motor show press conference and will tell the story of the new reimagined RC and Lexus brand values. The activity will take place from 11:00 to 16:00 CET at the show’s first press day. More details will be revealed through social media via the hashtag #SharpYetSmooth.

The second premiere for Lexus in Paris will feature the new LC Yellow Edition, a dazzling addition to the luxury brand’s flagship coupe range. The new model is distinguished externally by its vibrant Flare Yellow bodywork, achieved using painstaking selection of layered paint and primer colours. The result sets off the LC’s award-winning styling to head-turning effect, while the cabin is also rendered in a unique combination of warm yellow, white and black. The new LC Yellow Edition further benefits from the performance and handling features that are included in the top-of-the-range LC Sport+ specification.

Another Lexus highlight in Paris is the European premiere of the all-new, seventh generation ES luxury sedan. With a heritage of comfort, refinement and luxury, the new ES builds on its core strengths with an all-new chassis that allows for a dynamic exterior design and engaging driving experience.

The new UX compact crossover will also be featured on Lexus’ stand and order books will open for the first time. The UX will take its place alongside the established CT luxury hatchback as a gateway model for the Lexus brand and will play an important role in helping the company reach its target of 100,000 annual new vehicle sales in Europe* by 2020. Its self-charging hybrid technology has growing appeal, as the market moves away from diesel power to embrace alternative, electrified powertrains.

^{*Lexus Europe sales include the European Union countries, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, as well as the following Eastern markets: Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Caucasus region, Turkey and Israel.}

Lexus is introducing a dazzling new addition to its LC flagship coupe range with the launch of the new LC Yellow Edition. True to its name it sports a vibrant Flare Yellow paint finish that shows off the LC’s award-winning styling to excellent effect.

The special colour theme continues in the cabin, where the black door panels are enhanced by warm yellow Alcantara inserts. The warm yellow shade is also featured in contrast stitching details on the white leather seats, instrument panel, steering wheel and centre console arm rest, exemplifying the takumi craftsmanship that is a distinguishing feature of Lexus luxury. The cabin also features a driver’s head-up display, an Alcantara headlining and 10-way power adjustment for the front seats in semi-aniline leather.

Head-turning looks aside, the LC Yellow Edition benefits from advanced performance and handling features that are part of the LC Sport+ specification. Agile, secure handling and superb responsiveness are delivered thanks to Lexus Dynamic Handling and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) with four-wheel steering, which independently controls front and rear wheel steering angles, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. These advanced systems allow the driver to fully exploit the full potential of the LC’s GA-L global architecture platform with its excellent balance and low centre of gravity.

Special external features include 21-inch forged alloy wheels and a roof and active rear spoiler crafted in lightweight-yet-strong carbon fibre reinforced plastic. The spoiler plays a specific role in maintaining vehicle stability, automatically deploying at speeds above 80 km/h.

Yellow Edition versions of both the LC 500h, with Lexus’ revolutionary self-charging Multi Stage Hybrid System, and the LC 500, powered by a 464 DIN hp naturally aspirated V8 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission, will be available.

The LC Yellow Edition will be displayed on the Lexus stand at Paris Motor Show in October. Customer deliveries will be from the autumn of this year.

The annual Driver Power survey is based on the opinions of more than 80,000 UK motorists, offering criticism – or praise – in nine categories and 31 different areas.

“Our Driver Power satisfaction survey allows owners to leave no stone unturned when giving feedback on their cars,” revealed automotive managing editor Stuart Milne. He added: “To be crowned the best, a manufacturer can have no slip-ups, and this year the competition was extremely tough.”

Lexus owners have already rated the brand strongly across the board, topping the rankings for interior quality, comfort and build quality. But for this award it was the more emotional element of our sleek, concept-like LC that drew particular praise.

Auto Express editor-in-chief Steve Fowler went on to explain: “When Lexus revealed the LF-LC concept at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show, few people thought the car would make it to the showroom looking that good – including us. Surely Lexus wouldn’t be brave enough to bring out a production car that bold.

“Rarely are we so happy to be that wrong. The Lexus LC is every bit as special to look at as its concept, and to drive one is just the same.”

In collecting the award, Lexus UK director Ewan Shepherd said: “The LC has driven home the message that our brand is one of the most visionary, original and exciting out there. With LC we have shown these are not just words but that our bold vision for the future of Lexus goes beyond concepts and in to showrooms.

Lexus Team SARD drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Kamui Kobayashi took the chequered flag in their LC 500, giving Lexus its first win of the season and Kobayashi his first ever victory in the series.

In the hands of Kovalainen and Kobayashi, the DENSO KOBELCO SARD LC 500 took just 1:36'42.8 to complete 66 laps of the four-year old circuit north-east of Bangkok to take the win.

Crossing the line in second place just 2.86 seconds behind the winning LC 500 was the Lexus Team LEMANS WAKO'S LC 500 of Kazuya Oshima and Felix Rosenqvist with Team WedsSport BANDOH's pairing of Yuji Kunimoto and Kenta Yamashita taking third in their LC 500 to give Lexus a clean sweep.

In a thrilling fourth round of the season, it was a fierce battle from the halfway mark in the 300km race as four Lexus LC 500s led the field.

The au TOM'S LC 500 driven by Kazuki Nakajima and Yuhi Sekiguchi showed astonishing speed with Sekiguchi having clocked the fastest lap time of the race of 1'24.977 and was in with a chance to vie for the lead.

But the car suddenly slowed and stopped on the final lap having run out of fuel, leaving the way open for the WAKO'S and WedsSport cars to take podium positions with another Lexus LC 500, the Team ZENT CERUMO car driven by Yuji Tachikawa and Hiroaki Ishiura, rounding out the top four.

Victory in Thailand has given Finnish driver Kovalainen a narrow three-point lead in the drivers' standings, while Lexus Team SARD is also at the top of the teams' leaderboard with four rounds to go.

For Kobayashi, it was a thrilling first victory that came together through a complete team effort. "The team has worked very hard, and I am very happy to win in this condition, he said. I would like to thank the team for putting things together, and also appreciate Heikki for pushing and passing me the vehicle in first position. It was not an easy race, but I tried my best to maintain the position by using the margin Heikki made."

The Super GT Championship heads back to Japan on August 4-5 for the Fuji GT race at the iconic circuit below Mount Fuji.

The Nürburgring 24 Hours race is held yearly at the Nürburgring in central Germany — known as the world's most gruelling course — and 2018 sees the final of this 46th race taking place from May 12th through May 13th.

In 2018, the Lexus LC will be competing for the first time. This car has been refined to race specifications by the company’s mechanics and engineers, and incorporates advanced development technologies destined for future production vehicles such as sports cars. It's all part of our company’s efforts towards "making ever-better cars" through activities aimed at "refining people, refining cars".

Competing in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race with the Lexus LC will enable us to introduce the following advanced development technologies destined for future production vehicles:
・Body technology development (reducing weight, increasing rigidity)
・Driver assistance technology (enhancing visibility, etc.)
・Aerodynamics development
・Engine development (increasing power by reducing friction, enhancing fuel economy, etc.)
・Suspension technology (reducing weight, increasing rigidity, enhancing responsiveness, etc.)

The four drivers for this race will be Takeshi Tsuchiya, as the chief driver, along with young drivers Takamitsu Matsui, Naoya Gamo, and Yuichi Nakayama.

“The race car we are currently developing, the Lexus LC, is still in its infancy and finally beginning to take its first steps’, said Takeshi Tsuchiya, Driver. “It will be some time before it can properly stand by itself, but it will be well worth the effort, and I'm delighted to actually be involved in the company’s efforts towards "making ever-better cars" for the future. As the drivers, the four of us will work together to bring the company's goals to fruition.”

Just as the wonder of nature’s colours can make us stop and stare in admiration, Lexus has produced a dazzling new shade that will make its new LC luxury coupe stand out from every other car on the road.

It’s called Structural Blue and it’s much more than simply a new choice on a colour chart. It’s the result of Lexus’ painstaking research into how advanced technology can produce a finish that is deeper, more lustrous and, essentially, more “blue” than anything seen before.

First applied to the LC models presented in the spotlight of the Geneva motor show in 2016, it created an instant sensation. Now it has been developed for production, adding extra elements of exclusivity and hand-finished quality to Lexus’ sensuously designed coupe.

The striking new colour is being made available for the first time on a new, special version of the LC, the LC Structural Blue Edition. Offered only in strictly limited numbers, these cars will be the choice of connoisseurs who recognise and value both the application of advanced technologies and the highest standards of Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship.

Inspired by nature and the Morpho butterfly

The quest to develop Structural Blue was undertaken by the 15-year collaborated works among Company's Tec Center in both Ann Arbor, MI USA and Japan, and VIAVI Solutions Inc, a leading provider of thin film optical coatings and pigments based in CA USA.

The creation of Structural Blue is an achievement that presented exceptional technical challenges.

The engineers worked with the basic principles of light to create a special effect colour, one that appears bluer than any blue pigment thought possible.

In their intensive search to create the new colour, the team drew inspiration from nature and the Morpho butterfly. Native to North and South America, this butterfly is renowned for the deep, shimmering blue of its wings. But in fact, the wings are colourless. The blue we see is created by light interference on their microscopic lattice surface structure.

This was just the kind of effect Lexus wanted to achieve with Structural Blue. However, producing such high luminance and colour saturation called for unprecedented efforts to develop a new kind of multi-layered pigment.

At first it seemed the challenge was simply too great: the desired quality could only be secured using a pigment with 40 separate layers. But the team persevered, constantly improving the process until the effect could be created with just a seven-layer structure. This made it practical for use in the production of highly exclusive vehicles.

The pigment is used to produce a new paint in a production process taking 8 months, including 12 production steps and 20 quality inspections. The paint is applied to the LC’s bodywork in a 15-micrometre layer between the primer and clear coats. Nano-structures – super-small flakes – in the paint generate iridescence, giving the impression of the colour constantly changing with the light. Conventional pigment paints reflect less than 50 per cent of incoming light as a visible blue colour, but with Structural Blue the level is nearly 100 per cent. In total, 300g pigment with 300 billion pigment flakes are used for one LC.

Such is the fine quality of the process, only two Structural Blue cars can be produced in a working day at Lexus’ Motomachi factory, the high-technology home of the LC.

LC Structural Blue Edition

The exquisite quality of the paintwork is matched by a superior equipment specification for the new LC Structural Blue Edition.

Available in both V8-powered LC 500 and full hybrid LC 500h versions, it is equipped with 21-inch forged alloy wheels to perfectly complement the sensuous styling of the coupe bodywork. The exclusivity is also reflected in the fitting of carbon fibre scuff plates.

The cabin is presented in the LC’s Breezy Blue colour combination, with a mid-blue semi-aniline leather for the upper door trims, steering wheel, instrument panel and centre armrest with contrasting white fine leather seat upholstery and vivid orange for the shift lever surround and the draped Alcantara door panels. The headlining is also finished in Alcantara.

Other key features include Lexus’ Climate Concierge to maintain perfect cabin temperature and air quality, Lexus Premium Navigation, Lexus Safety System + and 12-speaker Pioneer sound system.

The LC Structural Blue Edition is available to order now.

The launch of the Lexus LC luxury coupe has a wider significance than being an exciting and technologically advanced addition to Lexus’ global model range. The visual impact of its emotional design and its exhilarating performance are manifestations of a radical shift in the Lexus brand that has been developing during the past few years.

In automotive terms, Lexus is still a young brand, just 28 years old, but even in that short time the perceptions of what luxury means have changed. Back in 1989 people would choose a prestige car as a status symbol. Today the concept of luxury has evolved into a mindset that values quality and exclusivity not just in things, but in experiences and social interactions.

One of the qualities that has distinguished Lexus ever since it entered the highly competitive luxury car market is our commitment to delivering highest standards of customer service. Our philosophy is based on Omotenashi, interpreting and developing the best traditions of Japanese hospitality I n treating customers as you would guests in your home and anticipating their every need and preference. The result is an exceptional, personalised experience and an approach to business that has earned Lexus multiple awards for customer satisfaction worldwide.

Such is the solid foundation on which Lexus is now taking its work beyond automotive into new arenas where it can nurture and inspire innovation, creativity and craftsmanship. For example, in the world of international design we have been a leading contributor to Milan Design Week since 2005. W e also host an annual competition for up-and-coming talent and present specially commissioned works that capture key themes from our own design philosophy.

Lexus is supporting film-makers, too. Working with leading international producers such as The Weinstein Company we provide a showcase for new talents in the Lexus Short Films series, established in 2013. We are also bringing our design vision to the big screen. Collaborating with the EuropaCorp studios and acclaimed director Luc Besson, Lexus has helped create a futuristic pursuit aircraft – the SKYJET – for the science fiction blockbuster Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.

A focus on imaginative technology has brought numerous world-first features and capabilities to Lexus cars. This drive for technical innovation has spread further to embrace exciting new challenges commanding wider public attention and acclaim. For instance, Lexus succeeded in building a fully functioning hoverboard. And, earlier this year, we unveiled the sleek and powerful Lexus Sport Yacht Concept, applying our technology and design skills for the first time to the world of marine high-performance.

Lexus’ vision is not confined to creating great cars like the new LC. Our ambition is to build an exciting global lifestyle brand with a much wider outlook, an approach captured by our new brand tagline, “Experience Amazing”.

In this way, Lexus is defining its own territory in the premium market, going beyond the purely numerical understanding of what a luxury car should be. The result is a holistic brand experience that is supported by a passion for design, craftsmanship, quality, technology and an unparalleled customer experience – qualities that are perfectly showcased in the new LC luxury coupe.

​LEXUS LC KEY FACTS

BRAVE DESIGN

• An all-new luxury GT with a dynamic design and evocative, fluid lines.
• The first model in its segment to be offered with 21-inch wheels.
• A driver-focused cabin providing both luxury and a sporting feel with a low-set driving position, helping create an ideal connection between driver and car.

EXHILARATING PERFORMANCE

• Lexus’ all-new, ultra-rigid GA-L platform, allowing to improve inertia specifications by moving all the critical weight to the car’scentre and offering a lower centre of gravity and a more sporty driving position.
• A highly rigid and lightweight body.
• New multi-link front and rear suspension systems secure precise handling characteristics.

IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY 

• LC 500h equipped with a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine and Lexus’ all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System, delivering excellent efficiency and the most engaging hybrid driving experience yet.
• LC 500 equipped with a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine and a new direct shift 10-speed automatic transmission – a world first for a premium passenger car.

TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP

Developed and produced by highly-skilled, high-precision Lexus Takumi workers using their knowledge from the LFA supercar development and utilising high-quality materials.

LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + 

Comprehensive Lexus Safety System + fitted as standard to ensure the highest active safety standards.

A CHOICE OF TWO PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEMS

• 13-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Product audio system or
• 12-speaker Pioneer premium audio surround system.

A FLAGSHIP LUXURY COUPE

The LC is a new flagship 2+2 luxury coupe for Lexus’ global model range, not only showcasing the qualities of design, engineering and advanced technology that define us as a premium vehicle manufacturer, but also symbolising our ambition as a luxury lifestyle brand.

This isn’t simply a car that looks good. It has been engineered in every dimension to deliver unique driving experience. “Even sharper and more refined” were the constant watchwords as Lexus honed every aspect of the LC’s performance, ride and handling.

The LC is a contemporary interpretation of the finest traditions of the grand tourer, a coupe focused on the road, not the track. Its handling, responsiveness and comfort have been tuned on some of the world’s great driving roads, to deliver a rewarding and hugely enjoyable experience.

The quality is equally high in both versions of the car that are being brought to the marketplace, the LC 500h and the LC 500 – two models that offer unique propositions for customers.

The LC 500h marks a revolution I n the development of hybrid technology being the first model to benefit from Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System. Adding a multi-stage shift device to the 3.5-litre V6 hybrid powertrain helps transform the driving experience, witnessed in greater torque, more usable power across a wider range of engine speeds, and rhythmic, linear acceleration that gives the driver the sensation of working with a 10-speed automatic gearbox.

Moreover, these qualities are delivered with all the smoothness and efficiency for which Lexus Hybrid Drive is renowned, together with improved environmental performance.

The LC 500 is powered by the latest development of Lexus’ normally aspirated V8 petrol engine, tuned to deliver 477 PS/351kW, with improved acceleration feel to the driver and the kind of engine note that only a normally aspirated V8 can deliver. This unit is matched to the world’s first 10-speed direct shift automatic transmission for a premium car, to secure a genuinely rewarding driving experience.

The first new Lexus LC luxury coupes for the European market enter production today (May 22), manufactured on an exclusive new assembly line.

Lexus has transformed its Motomachi plant in Japan, formerly home to the LFA supercar, to create a highly focused working environment, dedicated to delivering the highest standards of precision, quality and craftsmanship.

The final assembly area has been reshaped and made an all-white area to help the engineers maintain the best focus on their work. The average time for each person’s task is almost 20 minutes, so there is more time to ensure every part of the process meets Lexus’ exacting quality requirements.

The line culminates in a new glass-walled booth where every millimetre of the car’s bodywork is subject to intense scrutiny beneath a battery of LED lights. The area for exhaust silencer inspection is surrounded by thicker glass panels so that the slightest abnormality in sound can be detected. The operation and quality of functional components, such as the doors, are also checked here.

The LC is built by a team of specially selected and trained Takumi craftspeople, all of whom have years of experience in Lexus manufacturing.

As well as being assembled in the same facility as the LFA, the LC benefits from a number of technologies which Lexus first developed for production of its hand-crafted supercar. These include the use of a special process, Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) for the production of CFRP composite material. By adapting RTM for volume production, Lexus has been able to incorporate CFRP in key areas of the LC, which makes a significant contribution to reducing the car’s weight.

Production of the new LC marks a revolutionary step for Lexus, not only in achieving an unprecedented synergy between its design and engineering teams, but also in helping establish the company as a global luxury brand that reaches beyond the manufacture of prestige vehicles

The LC, scheduled to arrive in European showrooms in August, is available with two powertrains. The V8-powered petrol LC 500 is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a world-first for a passenger car. The full hybrid LC 500h benefits from the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, a next-generation technology that delivers multiple benefits in terms of performance and an enhanced driving experience, including higher torque and more direct, linear acceleration from start-off.

Inspired by the ground-breaking LC luxury coupe and sights & sounds of globally-renowned musical hotspot Ibiza, viewers have the opportunity to become the DJ themselves by accessing a bespoke platform to create their track, based on the industry-leading Novation Launchpad music sequencer.

An avid driving and (of course) music fan, Mark has himself created a track to his own version of the drive, as inspiration for those taking on the challenge, available to view here: https://www.lexus.eu/lexus-today/make-your-mark/behind-the-scenes/

Celebrated for its musical heritage, having played host to some of world’s most innovative music artists, Ibiza was the perfect location to showcase the Lexus ambition to create amazing experiences in the realms of music, art and technology. Renowned for its iconic coastal roads and crystal blue waters, the stunning Ibizan vistas provide the backdrop to highlight the uncompromising design and performance of the LC.

The LC immersive driving experience marks the next phase in the Make Your Mark campaign, which over the next five months will give consumers and fans the chance to get hands on with some exciting content and amazing experiences.

The design of the LC coupe remains remarkably true to that of the LF-LC concept car, making both winners of the EyesOn Design Award. The LC is the figurehead of an evolving vehicle development culture at Lexus, which embraces an unprecedentedly close collaboration between design and engineering teams to create new models.

To score your track to the ultimate LC driving experience, go to: https://www.lexus.eu/lexus-today/make-your-mark/

The collaboration with Ronson continues Lexus’ ambition to create amazing experiences in the realms of music, art and technology. It follows on from 2015’s campaign ‘The Life RX’ with Jude Law which gave attendees of an immersive theatre event the chance to get in the driving seat of their own movie star lifestyle.

Over the next six months, the Make Your Mark campaign will give consumers and fans the chance to get hands on with some exciting content and amazing experiences.

Speaking about the campaign, Mark Ronson said: “I always like to work with collaborators who are innovative and unique in and out of the studio. When I was approached by Lexus with the concept of this campaign and saw the new LC, it felt fresh and exciting. I was drawn to the idea of using music to inspire and create an experience around this car.”

The design of the LC coupe remains remarkably true to that of the LF-LC concept car, making both winners of the EyesOn Design Award. The LC is the figurehead of an evolving vehicle development culture at Lexus, which embraces the collaboration between design and engineering teams to create a stunning car which surpasses all expectations.

Commenting on the partnership between Lexus and Mark Ronson, Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe said: “Mark Ronson is an iconic music producer behind some of the biggest hits of the decade and we couldn’t have thought of a better collaborator for the ‘Make Your Mark’ campaign. The Lexus LC symbolizes the beginning of a new phase for Lexus, which is all about creating greater synergy between engineering and design. Who better to work with on this than Mark – a man who has made a significant contribution to the world of music through his incredible performances and collaborations.”

To find out more and to stay updated on the Make Your Mark campaign, go to www.lexus.eu from 11 April.

The peer-reviewed award was presented at a gala ceremony in Geneva yesterday (7 March) and is featured in the Car Design Review 4 yearbook, which was launched the same night.

Car Design Review 4’s editor Guy Bird said: “It was great to see the fantastic LF-LC concept faithfully translated into the beautiful LC production car with so little compromise. This is a rare thing in the automotive industry and should be celebrated.

“Our esteemed, but hard-to-please professional car design judging panel clearly agreed, giving plaudits to the curvaceous coupe for its daring surfacing, unforgettable face and unique character. It was a tough project to execute, by all accounts, but a wonderful end result and a deserving winner of the 2016 Production Car Design of the Year.”

Tadao Mori, Chief Designer of the Lexus LC, said: “This was one of the first times for Lexus that designers were closely involved in the dynamic engineering development, so we could understand the driving goals and support them with the car’s design. The 2012 LF-LC concept model was the starting point, not our final goal. This means we didn’t just duplicate LF-LC’s surfaces and lines onto the production platform. Even though we decided to maintain LF-LC’s design language and theme, we added more emotion. I’d like to thank very much all the colleagues who were involved in the car’s development at Lexus International.”

The Car Design of the Year awards are organised by the team behind the Car Design News website. Their special quality is distinguished by the fact the judging panel is made up of some of the world’s top car designers, together with leaders of major international automotive suppliers and universities. In order to select the 2016 Production Car Design of the Year, judges named their top three choices from a 12-strong shortlist compiled by Car Design News’ editorial staff.

Note to editors:

Car Design News (CDN) is the leading resource for car designers worldwide published from London, UK by Ultima Media. Since 1999 it has provided invaluable information, advice and insights to students and design directors alike, thanks to its network of writers and industry analysts, many of whom have contributed to the latest Car Design Review 4 book. CDN’s primary presence is online, allowing it to deliver the latest news, reviews and opinions to the design community. In addition to its unrivalled editorial, it houses a careers section that has helped place many designers in key positions.

The model, revealed soon after the premiere appearance of the twin-turbo petrol V6-powered LS 500 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, is a further manifestation of how Lexus has reimagined the luxury sedan, presenting brave design, exhilarating performance and a sophisticated appeal to capture the imagination of forward-thinking, younger customers.

The car’s design successfully brings together the virtues of a long-wheelbase four-door sedan with a low, coupe-like profile, positioning the LS perfectly across the two growing sedan and coupe segments.

The cabin has benefited from an equally new approach, focusing on “progressive comfort,” interpreting Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship traditions in the context of an advanced, luxurious and innovative vehicle interior such as the original door trim ornamentation. Notably the LS 500 was honoured at NAIAS with the EyesOn Design Award for excellence in interior design.

Conceived as the new global pinnacle of the Lexus brand, the LS goes beyond what the world expects from a luxury car. Chief Engineer Toshio Asahi explained: “Developing such a flagship model required a massive paradigm shift. Rather than being bound by the conventions that had defined luxury cars in the past, we aimed to create a car with innovative, emotional and sensual appeal that would draw customers’ eyes away from other luxury cars and provide entirely new values.”

The LS 500h is equipped with the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, a technology that transforms the performance and driver appeal of hybrid, providing improved responsiveness and more rewarding, linear acceleration, particularly when moving off from stationary. At the same time, the inherent fuel and emissions efficiency of Lexus Hybrid Drive has been further improved.

The powertrain features a 3.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i V6 petrol engine and two electric motors, together delivering maximum system power of 354hp/264kW. While the LS 500 will be available in Europe exclusively as all-wheel drive model, the LS 500h will be introduced in both rear and all-wheel drive versions.

The LS 500h is built on the new Lexus Global Architecture – Luxury platform, which ensures a low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution, contributing to the car’s essential stability and handling agility, which in turn deliver increased driver rewards. The fundamental high rigidity of the chassis allows the new multilink suspension to be tuned to achieve a great handling performance and the supreme comfort for which the LS is renowned. In Europe, Adaptive Variable Suspension, with air suspension are a standard feature of higher specification models.

The car’s dynamic performance benefits also from the co-ordination of braking, steering and stability systems through Lexus Dynamic Handling.

Advanced technologies are further used to deliver impressive safety performance. The LS 500h’s Lexus Safety System+ package additionally includes a new advanced safety system, which features the world’s first intuitive pedestrian detection function with active steering among other innovative technologies.

Omotenashi, expressing the unique sense of Japanese hospitality, defines the LS 500h’s whisper-quiet and luxurious interior. Supreme comfort is provided by front and rear seats with multiple power adjustment, heating, cooling and massage functions. There is also an optional rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg ottoman and the most generous leg room of any LS generation. Notably the new LS 500h is longer even than the current long wheelbase LS. The wheelbase increased from 3,090 mm to 3,125 mm.

Lexus Takumi craftsmanship also contributes to the special quality of the LS 500h’s cabin, in luxurious new trims, materials and detailing, including a new pleating treatment and Kiriko glasswork on the inner door panels.

In the space of just 27 years Lexus has had a transformative effect on the world’s luxury car market. Engineering excellence has produced generations of powerful, responsive engines and transmissions, while its pioneering hybrid technology has taken efficiency and smoothness to ever higher levels. Cutting edge design and a contemporary approach to luxury based on master craftsmanship traditions further emphasise its authentic status as a world-class luxury vehicle manufacturer.

Now Lexus is building on its established strengths and evolving its reputation for a rational approach to vehicle development to explore new opportunities in design and technology that reshape its model range. The change is being led from the top by Akio Toyoda, who in taking on the roles of Lexus’ Chief Branding Officer and master driver has given the business more freedom and autonomy and the confidence to be daring. With the benefit of dedicated resources, greater flexibility and quicker decision-making, Lexus has delivered a succession of vibrant new models that are changing the way it is perceived both by customers and the global automotive industry.

The striking new NX crossover, the latest generation RX luxury SUV and the RC F and GS F performance models all demonstrate the great leap Lexus has made in crafting distinctive contemporary designs and delivering rewarding dynamic experiences, while retaining the luxury quality and attention to detail for which it has always been renowned.

The LC luxury coupe takes this evolution to another level. Lexus has succeeded in turning its LF-LC concept into an uncompromised production car, in less than five years since its unveiling to huge critical and public acclaim. This feat has called for new ways of co-operation between the design and engineering teams throughout the development process.

Not only has Lexus delivered a design with high visual impact, it has also developed ground-breaking engineering and technology for the LC . The LC 500h is the first model to feature Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System, changing the perception of hybrids, by giving much improved performance across the full range of engine speeds, more direct response to driver inputs and a higher level of dynamic performance and driving pleasure, while maintaining the smoothness and efficiency that are characteristic of Lexus hybrids. The LC 500, with its normally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, also marks a first in the premium car segment with its new Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission, with gear ratios spaced to achieve smooth, linear and rhythmical acceleration.

The successful delivery of the LC owes much to the immense personal enthusiasm for the project from everyone involved in its creation; their inspiration has been critical in making the LC a reality.

Testing of the race car is expected to start in September 2016 with the new coupe making its race debut in Japan's Super GT series during the next year, replacing the Lexus RC F in the series.

The LC 500 and its hybrid version, the LC 500h, have been designed as grand touring coupes. The race car version has therefore been substantially modified for racing purposes, including the fitment of an enhanced aerodynamic package, weight reduction measures and a bespoke race-spec powertrain.

Striking body work for the LC 500 race car incorporates boldly widened fenders, muscular skirts, large spoiler and rear diffuser and multiple vents for downforce and heat extraction.

These features enhance the flagship coupe's aerodynamic shape, dramatic curves and wide, imposing stance while retaining the distinctive Lexus spindle grille and L-shaped lights.

With a minimum weight of 1,020kg, the lightweight race car will be powered by a 2.0-litre direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine driven through a six-speed sequential gearbox.

Lexus LC 500 race car specifications:

• Length (mm): 4960
• Width (mm): 1950
• Height (mm): 1220
• Wheelbase (mm): 2750
• Engine type: Four-cylinder turbo
• Engine capacity (cm3): 2000
• Fuel system: Direct injection
• Transmission: Six-speed sequential
• Weight (kg, minimum): 1020

Brussels, Belgium - The LC, Lexus’ new luxury coupe, will continue its European debut tour (#LCOnTour) in France this Sunday, September 4th, participating in the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille *.

The LC will be one of the main features in the Concours d’Elegance, the highlight of the event. Adding extra exclusive appeal to its appearance, it will be accompanied by a model wearing a dress created especially for the occasion by leading fashion designer Jørgen Simonsen.

"When designing the dress, I took inspiration from the Lexus LC," says Simonsen. "Its high-quality materials and colour, speed and power, its finishes and emotional shapes: all these resulted in ultra-feminine yet contemporary, bold yet sensual shapes."

Simonsen is also the creator of the dresses the Lexus hostesses will wear at the Paris motor show. The young Danish designer has already gained rich experience with several major French and Italian fashion houses, working with celebrated couturiers John Galliano, Karl Lagerfeld and Alexander McQueen before becoming artistic director for Versace and Valentino. His creations have attracted prestigious clients, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Elizabeth Taylor, Olga Kurylenko, Nicole Kidman, Marisa Tomei and Michelle Rodriguez.

The Chantilly date is the latest in a series of prestigious appearances for the LC in Europe, its tour itinerary having taken in events in Spain, at the Nürburgring in Germany and the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK, and in Belgium.

Following its participation in the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille, the LC will again be in the spotlight in France, featuring on the Lexus stand at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris from September 29th.

The LC, Lexus’ flagship coupe, will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain options. The full hybrid LC 500h will feature a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and Lexus’s all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System, engineered to deliver a more direct response for genuine high performance. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine coupled to a new 10-speed automatic transmission – a world first for a luxury vehicle. The LC is the first model to be built on Lexus’ all-new GA-L platform, designed to deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

* www.chantillyartsetelegance.com

** http://jorgensimonsen.com

Brussels, Belgium - Following its appearance in Spain, the Netherlands, Germany and now the UK, the LC, the new Lexus luxury coupe, is planned to continue its European tour (#LCOnTour) in September in France.

On September 4th the LC will participate in the 3rd edition of the acclaimed Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille event. The main attraction of this internationally renowned happening is the Concours d’Elegance where, this year, the Lexus LC will present its amazing, head-turning design.

Only a few weeks later, starting on September 29th, the LC will be displayed at the ‘Mondial de l’Automobile’ in Paris, where it will be accessible to all visitors from October 1st.

The LC, Lexus’s flagship coupe, will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain options. The full hybrid LC 500h will feature a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and Lexus’s all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System, engineered to deliver a more direct response for genuine high performance. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine coupled to a new 10-speed automatic transmission – a world first for a luxury vehicle. The LC is the first model to be built on Lexus’s all-new GA-L platform, designed to deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

Brussels, Belgium - The LC 500 coupe enjoyed a sensational debut earlier this year as the stand-out star of the Detroit motor show, before its hybrid version, the LC 500h was revealed at the Geneva motor show. Now the dynamic brilliance of its design and engineering are being celebrated in a short film that helps build anticipation towards the car’s market launch next year.

The film is released today on Lexus’ YouTube channels, together with a supporting feature on how the movie was made: www.youtube.com/user/LexusEurope/videos

The aim is to give viewers an immersive visual and aural introduction to the LC, before they actually experience the car in the metal.

Shot in a remote area of Spain’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, the film brought together the talents of leading motion designer Edgar Davey and a team from projection mapping specialists QED Productions, led by Paul Whigfield. Davey produced a set of visuals that takes the viewer under the skin of the LC 500, evoking elements of its 467bhp V8 engine and its world-first 10-speed transmission. He had to be sure each could be faithfully rendered when projected against the jagged mountainside – the film’s natural backdrop and the canvas for Davey’s artistry – requiring precise positioning of each camera and projector.

The filming required a team of 20 working on location. Equipped with four of the brightest projectors in the world, they had just three nights in which to translate Davey’s visuals into finished footage. Whigfield explained the scale of the challenge they faced: “I don’t think this would have been possible a year or two ago, it just wouldn’t have been a practical proposition. I would have been easy to try and fake something like this, but to do it for real is such an incredible challenge”

In the movie, the Lexus LC 500 accelerates on a twisting mountain road and as it passes, its thrilling engine note shatters the rockface to reveal a battery of pounding pistons and spinning gears. In another scene a face in the mountain side turns to watch the car speed by.

This ground-breaking film-making project has shunned CGI trickery in favour of real-world projection mapping artistry on an unprecedented scale.

Multiple projectors had to be linked to create a seamless backdrop of images moving over the mountainside, timed to synchronise perfectly with the LC 500 as it powered along the twisting road. As well as the evocative projections, the film also focuses on some of the design and engineering features that define the new coupe, such its arresting bodywork design, carbon fibre roof and retracting rear spoiler. Inside the car, craftsmanship detailing such as the stitching of the suede-effect Alcantara trim and the sculpted surface of the magnesium gear shift paddles, is contrasted with the hi-tech appearance of the 3D instrumentation that greets the driver when they fire up the engine-start button.

The new LC 500 is currently touring Europe for a series of preview events. Next is the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it will make its UK debut. Follow #LConTour for further updates.

Brussels, Belgium -

• Goodwood Festival of Speed to host the official UK debut of the Lexus LC
• Luxury coupe to be driven on the famous hill climb course by international racing stars Mike Conway, Alex Wurz and Scott Pruett
• Lexus LFA, RC F and GS F also set to appear on the hill climb
• LC to be the central attraction on the Lexus stand, alongside the RC F and GS F high-performance models, RC coupe, NX crossover and RX SUV

The new Lexus LC is to make a suitably prestigious debut appearance in the UK, on display and in action at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (23 to 26 June).

The internationally famous automotive celebration in the grounds of Goodwood House in Sussex will provide a fitting stage for the LC, a luxury coupe that has attracted huge critical and popular acclaim for its revolutionary styling since it first broke cover at the Detroit motor show earlier this year.

A V8-powered LC 500 will be appearing in the “First Glance” category on the hill climb, reserved for exciting new models ahead of their market launch. Driving duties will be shared by Mike Conway, scheduled to be at Goodwood fresh from competing with the Toyota Gazoo Racing team at the Le Mans 24 Hours; Scott Pruett, a multiple Grand Am champion with Lexus in North America who is currently racing an RC F in IMSA GT3 sportscar competition; and former Formula 1 and Toyota Gazoo Racing pilot Alex Wurz.

Festival-goers will be able to take a close-up look at the LC on the Lexus stand, where it will take pride of place alongside the LFA supercar, RC F, and GS F, together with F Sport versions of Lexus’s latest hybrid models – the RC 300h coupe, NX 300h crossover and RX 450h luxury SUV.

The LC, Lexus’s flagship coupe, will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain options. The full hybrid LC 500h will feature a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and Lexus’s all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System, engineered to deliver more direct response for authentic high performance. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine coupled to a new 10-speed automatic transmission – a world first for a luxury vehicle. The LC is the first model to be built on Lexus’s all-new GA-L platform, designed to deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

Lexus will also be taking part in the Moving Motor Show, the curtain-raiser to the festival on 23 June. Members of the public will be able to take test drives of the high performance Lexus RC F and GS F coupes within the Goodwood estate

Brussels, Belgium - The pre-race Prologue proved an ideal arena for Lexus to present the latest addition to its model range, a prestigious parade used by many manufacturers to show off their best cars.

After the Prologue, the LC was driven to the Ring Boulevard where it remained on display throughout the event. Once the chequered flag fell, the focus moved to the circuit’s famous Hatzenbach Plateau where the coupe’s German premiere was celebrated with an after-race party.

Yesterday the LC bade farewell to the ‘ring and moved on for a photo shoot at the picturesque and stylish Qvest boutique hideaway in Cologne.

Look out for more news and images as the LC continues its debut European journey, using #LCOnTour.

The LC, Lexus’s flagship coupe, will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain options. The full hybrid LC 500h will feature a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and Lexus’s all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System, engineered to deliver more direct response for authentic high performance. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine coupled to a new 10-speed automatic transmission – a world first for a luxury vehicle. The LC is the first model to be built on Lexus’s all-new GA-L platform, designed to deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

Brussels, Belgium - The amazing Lexus experience started on the way to the roof top. In a tailor-made elevator, guests enjoyed an exclusive cocktail spray to get in the mood for Creating Amazing.

Arriving in the Sky Lounge, a series of extraordinary experiences greeted guests starting with a range of various experiential “food stations” and “Wasmannen” – men washing the guests’ hands and entertaining them at the same time. Double Robotics approached guests and sang their personalised song. Many more exciting attractions awaited the guests. The musical host of the event was Spinkit DJ Lara with her moving DJ station.

The absolute highlight of the Creating Amazing event was the touch and feel session of the new Lexus LC luxury coupe conducted by the Dutch star illusionist, Victor Mids. The artist let guests experience the car without even touching it. The guests very much appreciated the opportunity to experience the amazing luxury coupe on top of one of the tallest buildings in Amsterdam with its fantastic city scenery as the backdrop.

Next destination of the #LCOnTour will be Germany, from which we will send out regular reports.

The Lexus flagship coupe LC will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain versions: the 3.5l, V6 petrol-engined full hybrid LC 500h which will feature the all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System for more direct response. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0l, V8 petrol engine coupled to a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission – a first ever in a luxury vehicle. The LC will be the first model with the all-new GA-L platform which will deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

Brussels, Belgium - Lexus Europe: The precision skills of Lexus’ Takumi craftspeople famously differentiate the luxury quality of Lexus models. Where can we see the rewards of their work in the new LC?

Tadao Mori: “I would highlight the exquisite stitching of the Alcantara upholstery, it gives the LC a sporty yet luxurious feeling. In fact, you won’t find any plastic parts in the interior, as we have covered almost everything in upholstery.

“I also love the creative stitching and the small perforations in the seat fabric, and the steering wheel is a piece of art.”

Lexus Europe: What makes the steering wheel such a special feature?

Koji Sato: “A Takumi master driver helped define the best possible shape for the steering wheel. Driving the car and checking the details again and again, he constantly refined the profile to come up with an ideal elliptical grip that fits best in the driver’s hands when cornering with high G-forces.”

Tadao Mori: “Then our Takumi master driver created an amazingly complex cross-sectional drawing, with different profiles for every section of the wheel. It is an incredible piece of work.”

Koji Sato: “The same intensive process was applied to the paddle shifters to achieve the perfect fit and placing for the hands. The Takumi driver works exclusively on the development of the LC, making fine adjustments all the time. In fact this process will continue right up to the moment the car goes into production.”

Lexus Europe: How have you been able to make use of the craftsmanship skills that were developed for the LFA?

Koji Sato: “The LC will be built at the Motomachi plant, the same factory where we produced the LFA and some of the Takumi who worked on that model are now working exclusively on the new coupe.

This way we have been able to tap into their knowledge and experience in areas such as the carbon fibre components, leatherwork and hand-finishing.”

Brussels, Belgium - On the programme, a series of events and activities in more than 25 iconic European cities, covering a distance of more than ten thousand kilometres.

The initial destination of the Lexus sports coupe is Madrid, where, during an exclusive VIP event today, the LC will demonstrate its V8 engine’s aural symphony. As from May 10, the car will be displayed at the Madrid Motor Show.

After Madrid, the LC will have a stopover in Amsterdam, where, during a #CreatingAmazing event on May 18, special guests will be surprised by some unexpected attractions and activities.

In Germany at the end of May, the car will participate in the prologue[1] to the acclaimed 24 hours race at Nürburgring after which it will star in a photography contest in front of renowned landmarks across the country.

As from mid-June the LC will be present at many exciting events across the United Kingdom starting with the well-known Goodwood Festival of Speed where it will conduct several hill climbs throughout the event.

Stay tuned for more news about the tour.

The Lexus flagship coupe LC will be launched in spring 2017 with two powertrain versions: the 3.5l, V6 petrol-engined full hybrid LC 500h which will feature the all-new Multi Stage Hybrid System for more direct response. The LC 500 will be equipped with a 5.0l, V8 petrol engine coupled to a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission – a first ever in a luxury vehicle. The LC will be the first model with the all-new GA-L platform which will deliver a much sharper and more refined driving experience.

[1] Prologue is a one-lap show drive which can be joined by all car manufacturers participating in the 24h race. It takes place before the race itself.

Lexus Europe: How has the experience of the LFA and the technologies it pioneered been applied to developing the dynamic performance of the LC 500 and LC 500h?

Koji Sato: “Before we started on this job, we drove the LFA day after day – it certainly attracted a lot of attention around Los Angeles. You will find the carbon fibre composite technology we developed for the LFA in the lightweight parts we have designed for the LC, such as the compression—moulded sheets of re-impregnated carbon fibre used for the inner door panels.”

Lexus Europe: Remarkably, the LC is the stiffest Lexus ever built, including the LFA.

Koji Sato: “Yes, we are thrilled to have achieved world-class torsional stiffness levels that bear comparison with those of the very best German cars. The LC is actually 60% more rigid than the current Lexus GS performance sedan.

‘'This results in sharper and more precise, linear handling. In fact, the LC goes further, with a smoother and more lateral level of performance.”

Lexus Europe: Weight distribution is essential, too, as we witnessed with the LFA. What weight distribution have you achieved on the LC models?

Koji Sato: “We managed to create a 52:48 front-to-rear balance for the LC 500 and 51:49 for the LC 500h.”

Lexus Europe: This obviously makes for a very rewarding experience for the driver?

Koji Sato: “In the past, engineers would concentrate on specifications and performance data, but really great cars go further than this. Customers want a great experience that connects with the body and mind alike, so we focused on appealing to their senses.”

Lexus Europe: Where did your team go to develop the LC’s handling for European customers?

Koji Sato: “We tested extensively on the Nürburgring’s famous Nordschleife, on German Autobahns and on Europe’s country roads. We will continue to tune and perfect the car this year, with lots of development time spent in Europe.”

Lexus Europe: Akio Toyoda himself has also been involved. How has he contributed to the development programme?

Koji Sato: “Toyoda-san has driven the LC at all the important stages during the car’s development, and will continue to do so.

“After taking the car around the Shibetsu proving ground in northern Japan in snowy conditions, he made several requests about how we might improve its characteristics, so you can be sure it is going to be a fun car to drive.”

Lexus Europe: The LC is the first model to use the new Lexus GA-L (global architecture for luxury vehicles) chassis. Will we see this used for other models?

Koji Sato: “The LC uses a completely new chassis concept. It is very much the blueprint for possible future front-engine/rear wheel-drive models.”

Lexus Europe: Although the LC presents a visually arresting design, preserving a great deal of the cutting edge styling that gained the original Lexus concept model such universal acclaim, it still – like the LFA – achieves aerodynamic excellence that matches the best in its segment. How did you create this?

Tadao Mori: “We achieved this result by introducing new features, such as the air pods just in front of the rear wheels, which manage the airflow within the wheel arches, We studied the shape and location of elements such as underfloor fins, the door mirrors, front bumper intakes and the rake of the windscreen, all of which contribute to the overall aerodynamic quality.”

Lexus Europe: Are there any plans for the LC to be developed for motorsport?

Koji Sato: “I hope so, but I cannot reveal exactly what we will be doing.”

Lexus Europe: The LC 500h coupe has drawn great praise for its remarkable styling, but the drivetrain under the skin is just as revolutionary. Can you explain what you set out to achieve with the new Multi Stage Hybrid System?

Koji Sato: “In the past, people associated hybrid with ‘eco’. We wanted to change that perception and create a true high-performance package.

“We’ve taken our pioneering Lexus Hybrid Drive to the next level, combining a V6 petrol engine and motor generator with an automatic transmission. This was how we could engineer a system that responds much more directly to driver inputs, while still delivering all the smoothness and efficiency characteristic of a Lexus full hybrid.”

Lexus Europe: Clearly this was a complex task, what were the biggest challenges you faced during the development of the new system?

Koji Sato: “The biggest hurdle we had to overcome was creating a control system for the new drivetrain that delivered on our aim to give the driver an amazingly responsive car, both on winding roads and on the Autobahn. We had to harness the ‘torque on demand’ that is characteristic of electric motors to secure the right kind of sports driving. It is thanks to the new automatic transmission that we have been able to do this.”

Lexus Europe: What do you expect the driver to experience when they take the wheel of the LC 500h?

Koji Sato: “The car will do exactly what the driver wants. If they are in a sporty mood, they can take advantage of the instant and linear torque delivery. In fact there is more torque at start-up than with our V8 hybrid and you can drive at higher speeds on electric power, thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System.

“This is the first Lexus hybrid that can spin its rear wheels which is a sign of the amount of power on demand.”

Lexus Europe: The automatic transmission that is central to the Multi Stage Hybrid System has been placed behind the hybrid transmission. It has four gears, but you created the sensation of a 10-speed system for the driver. Why is that?

Koji Sato: “Like the best athletes, true performance cars are about rhythm. We wanted the LC 500h to have the same fundamental philosophy as the V8-powered LC 500 (which uses a 10-speed automatic transmission).

“We came up with 10 speeds as the result of our search for the perfect rhythm – it could have been 11 or nine, but 10 felt best during the many test drives we made.”

Lexus Europe: The LC 500h’s 299 DIN hp 3.5-litre V6 Atkinson cycle petrol engine is derived from the unit we know from the GS 450h. How has it been adapted?

Koji Sato: “The engine has been extensively modified for the LC 500h. In particular, its speed has been increased. So while it will reach 6,000rpm in the GS 450h, here it peaks at 6,600rpm, but still with the efficiency that the Atkinson cycle delivers.”

Lexus Europe: The remarkable sound the powertrain makes is part of the LC 500h’s special driving experience. How has that been achieved?

Koji Sato: “The sound has been developed by Lexus. We followed the same philosophy as with the LFA in wanting to create a unique sense of sound harmony, using the natural sound of the engine and adjustable acoustic valves in the exhaust system, rather than the Active Sound Control featured on some of our models.

“We succeeded in creating a distinctive sound for the Multi Stage Hybrid System which responds in a linear fashion to the way the driver uses the throttle pedal to accelerate continuously up to the engine’s high rev band.”

Lexus Europe: What was the thinking behind using a lithium-ion battery – a first for a Lexus full hybrid?

Koji Sato: “This brought a number of advantages both in terms of packaging and vehicle dynamics. It’s compact so we can provide more space for luggage, and it’s lightweight (at just 50kg) which helps us improve weight distribution and the car’s yaw inertia moment.”

Lexus Europe: Will the Multi Stage Hybrid System be used on other Lexus models?

Koji Sato: “Although we cannot confirm anything at present, we do expect that this drivetrain will be used on larger front-engine/rear wheel-drive Lexus models in the future.”

Brussels, Belgium - We recently met with the Lexus Designer, Tadao Mori, and Chief Engineer, Koji Sato, to talk about their latest project, the all-new Lexus LC. We started with the challenges their team faced during the development of the new Lexus luxury coupe.

Lexus Europe: The Lexus LC created a sensation when it was revealed at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, breaking the rule that production cars can never be as radical as their original design prototypes. How did you manage to give the production LC such an exciting design, so close to that of the LF-LC concept?

Koji Sato: “You might think the LC project simply involved turning the LF-LC concept into a road car, but in fact it was far more complex than that. Toyoda-san loved the LF-LC design too, but knew that it was a great challenge for us, possibly the greatest challenge since Lexus created the original LS.”

“As an engineer, I wanted the car to have great performance, while my Chief Designer colleague, Tadao Mori, wanted a great look. Despite our different disciplines, we essentially had the same goal and worked together to achieve some amazingly imaginative solutions.

“Every feature on the LC is the result of an integrated approach to design and engineering. The whole team worked together, engineers and designers alike. This is why we have been able to create such a great car.”

Lexus Europe: In terms of the design process, what was the most challenging aspect?

Tadao Mori: “Everything presented a challenge, but it was the packaging – how we made use of space in the car – that was the most demanding aspect: how to keep a low roof, but at the same time keep the cabin comfortable or how to fit the car with 21-inch wheels, but still have a low bonnet.”

“In fact, to create the low bonnet, our suspension engineers had to rework the components over and over again before we achieved just the effect we wanted. This took months of hard work, but the engineers were so excited about the LC’s design, they were prepared to do what was needed to make it happen.”

Lexus Europe: Many new technologies have been applied to the new LC. Which are you most proud of?

Koji Sato: “Obviously there are elements such as the carbon fibre and aluminium door construction, the introduction of Lexus Safety System+ and the new Remote Touch Interface that is being introduced with the 2017 multimedia system. The LC also has a shift-by-wire system, which is a first for Lexus. But to tell you the truth, I’m not overly concerned about the LC’s world-firsts, what’s more important to me is the overall result and seeing drivers fall in love with the car.”

Tadao Mori: “I was thrilled how we were able to achieve the small front and rear overhangs by designing one of world’s slimmest headlight units, which uses sophisticated lenses to focus the LED beams. We have also designed very compact rear lights that use twin mirrors to create infinite reflection patterns.”

Koji Sato: “We also achieved another breakthrough with the front suspension towers, making them from aluminium which saved more than 10kg compared to conventional steel.”

Lexus Europe: Was there an advantage in having the LF-LC in place as a design template?

Koji Sato: “Because the LF-LC concept was very strong, the final form for the production car was clear from an early stage. This meant we had a different design process to most cars.”

Tadao Mori: “It meant we could concentrate very hard on the car’s details, as we had more time for this compared to other projects.”

Lexus Europe: With the exterior design of the LC you stayed very close to that of the concept. But the interior of the LC is quite different from the LF-LC. What was the reason for this?

Tadao Mori: “When Akio Toyoda sat in the LF-LC for the first time, he was impressed but said he could not imagine it as the interior of a genuine driver’s car.

“We set to work to create a more welcoming space. We wanted to make the driver and passenger feel comfortable and at home, something you can see in details like the two handgrips placed next to the passenger seat.

The designers spent a great deal of time driving the LFA and other high performance cars in order to get a deeper understanding of how the engineers’ passion for a great driving experience can be supported by the design of the cabin and the ideal positioning of instruments and controls.”

Lexus Europe: What manpower resources did you have working on the LC project and what was your timeframe?

Koji Sato: “There were – and are – more than 4,000 people involved in the LC project and they have done an amazing job. This is a car with a completely new platform that was delivered in five years instead of the usual six. It was hard work, but a good test for everyone to focus on a common goal and make it happen.”

Stay tuned to discover the Multi Stage Hybrid System – a world first in a performance car.

Brussels, Belgium - The all-new LC luxury coupe was revealed in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and the LC 500 Hybrid was revealed in March at the Geneva Motor Show. The New York auto show marks the LC 500h’s North American debut, as well as its first appearance together with the LC 500.

The styling, performance and craftsmanship of the LC position it as the flagship coupe of the Lexus lineup. Inspired by the acclaimed LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC represents a shift in Lexus’ engineering processes and design direction, and marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand. Its outstanding visual appeal—highlighted by an aerodynamic shape, sensual curves and wide, imposing stance—has been unanimously praised. The coupe recently won EyesOn Design awards for Production Car and Best Designed Interior.

The LC 500 features a newly developed 10-speed automatic transmission—the first ever in a luxury automobile. Its interior spotlights a layout that is both cockpit-focused and elegant; the driver’s hip point was engineered to be as close as possible to the vehicle’s center of gravity. This athletic coupe is also the first Lexus to use the brand’s all-new, premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform, which promises enhanced dynamic capability and performance. These underpinnings will become the blueprint for the company’s future front-engine/rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

The LC 500 Hybrid, in turn, offers exhilarating performance and greater efficiency through the world’s first Multi Stage Hybrid System, the next generation of hybrid powertrains specifically designed for performance vehicles. The system closely aligns engine speed with throttle inputs, while also balancing power with fuel consumption. It also features ‘M’ Mode—the first driver-initiated gear shifts offered on a Lexus full hybrid powertrain—giving drivers the ability to initiate direct and responsive gear shifts for the most sporting and engaging drive yet from a Lexus hybrid.

Joining the LC luxury coupes on the auto show floor will be the 2016 GS F, an elegant-yet-aggressive sedan characterizing the essence of Lexus’ performance-oriented “F” brand. The GS F boasts a 467 horsepower, 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8, a bold front fascia with race-inspired functional air inlets, and handling that was developed on the most demanding race circuits. It’s a car that provides thrills and excitement on challenging switchbacks, while offering occupants unprecedented style and comfort.

Also featured at the New York Auto Show will be a 2016 Lexus RX, specially wrapped in a brilliant color print conceived by acclaimed designer Jeremy Scott, who recently announced his partnership with Lexus for this fall’s New York Fashion Week. Since the model’s launch in 1998, the RX has proved immensely popular with those needing the flexibility of a sport-utility vehicle combined with the driving comfort of a luxury sedan. With a modern interior encased by a chiseled exterior, the revolutionary new RX demonstrates that sophistication can have an edge.

Lexus will also debut the GS F and RC F “360 Virtual Reality Experience,” allowing auto show attendees to experience those performance cars as if driving on a professional race track.

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe

Good morning and welcome to Lexus!

Let me start today’s press conference with this figure: One million!

Indeed, Lexus will deliver this month its 1 millionth hybrid vehicle to a customer in the world and we are extremely proud of this milestone!

Lexus is the leading provider of premium hybrid vehicles – by a comfortable margin. We have the largest range with no less than 10 hybrid models on the market. And only last year, we sold 150,000 hybrid cars in the world.

Europe is a leading region in that respect. Did you know? In Europe, almost ONE out of every TWO hybrid premium vehicles sold in 2015 is a Lexus! We delivered more than 40 thousand hybrids here last year, representing 64% of our total sales. And if we focus on Western Europe the mix is even 95%.

Hybrid is our defining powertrain technology. It also drives the highest satisfaction rates from our customers and this naturally leads to sustained sales growth.

Looking at last year, Lexus sold 652 thousand vehicles in the world, which is a progression of 12% versus 2014 and our 3rd record year in a row.

2015 was also our best-ever year in Europe, with a 20% sales increase versus 2014 even 31% if you consider only Western Europe. Also, looking to the East and Russia in particular, Lexus is one of the very few premium brands able to increase sales by 6% in 2015 despite challenging market conditions.

Our key sales driver was the new midsize crossover, the NX, of which we sold already more than 187 thousand units in the world since its launch at the end of 2014 including nearly 37 thousand units in Europe.

You know, it’s already the third year that I stand in front of you, here in Geneva time flies and I’m still amazed by the speed of transformation at Lexus!

In just a couple of years, we have completely renewed our line-up. We have launched new models, like the very successful NX, the RC coupe and our F performance cars, RC F and GS F. And we have introduced new versions of several core models including the 4th generation RX just a couple of months ago.

We are raising Lexus to the next level with a bold and instantly recognizable design identity with a more engaging driving experience and with innovative technologies for instance in terms of safety and powertrains.

Lexus is on a roll and we have even greater ambitions for the future. We aim to exceed the mark of 70 thousand units in Europe this year and 100,000 by 2020.

Indeed, there’s much more to come from Lexus. Our design journey will take us even further we will introduce more models and brand new powertrains.

The two cars we have on display in Geneva today show you the direction we are taking.

First, have a look at the LF-FC concept. This is our vision of a future Lexus flagship harmonious, seductive, sleek lines almost like a coupe but with all the usability of a large sedan.

And FC also stands for ‘fuel cell’ – the powertrain technology of the future. It’s our commitment today: we will launch a Lexus fuel cell vehicle around 2020. It will be a highly refined vehicle, with strong performance credentials and yet zero emissions and zero dependence on oil.

The LF-FC also previews advanced technologies such as autonomous driving on highways and a very innovative interface operated by natural hand gestures.

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And the second model standing next to me under this cloth represents our short term future. I really can’t wait to reveal it to you so without further delay. Ladies and gentlemen here is the brand new Lexus hybrid sports coupe please welcome the LC 500h!

Judging by the reactions after its reveal in Detroit earlier this year, we seem to have got it right.

As Akio Toyoda said in Detroit, in order to make this vehicle possible engineers and designers had to collaborate in an innovative way.

The starting point was the LF-LC concept that we unveiled 4 years ago. Great looks as well but conceived purely as a design exercise, with no production constraints in mind.

So our mission was simple but challenging: bring this concept to life with great driving dynamics and while retaining the concept’s stunning visual identity.

Designers had to understand the engineers’ image for the LC driving dynamics and incorporate it into their work so we let designers do several test drives with performance cars so they could better understand the ideal positioning of meters and controls and – more importantly – the engineers’ passion for a great driving experience.

And our engineers also had to integrate our design requirements. Look at the front of the car. They had to develop a front suspension that: fits within a remarkably low hood line, accommodates 21’’ wheels AND provides GREAT handling.

Also, the LC is the first model to benefit from our brand new corporate platform architecture it’s the most rigid structure we have ever built.

And finally powertrains. We launched the LC 500 with V8 powertrain in Detroit.

Today we are proud to introduce, for the first time, our next generation performance hybrid system on LC 500h: the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System.

What we wanted to do was very simple: expand the benefits and the attractiveness of hybrid to performance vehicles. This means: more power, greater acceleration and traction, higher efficiency and last but certainly not least more fun to drive.

To achieve this, we added a 4-speed automatic transmission to our current hybrid system. Together with the hybrid transmission, this allows the multi stage system to generate no less than 10 gears to respond precisely to driver inputs at any speed and in any driving conditions.

One figure summarizes it all: LC 500h will surge to 100 km/h in less than 5 seconds.

Really, we can’t wait to let you drive this car ahead of its launch in Europe in the spring of 2017.

To conclude, let me invite you to welcome on stage the chief engineer of LC: Mr Koji Sato and the Multi Stage Hybrid engineer: Mr. Koji Oshima for a photoshooting opportunity.

Thank you for joining us today!

• Dynamic luxury - a more elegant, evocative, and fluid interpretation of Lexus’ L-finesse design philosophy
• Brand New Multi Stage Hybrid System offers exhilarating performance and greater efficiency
• Ultra rigid, yet light body with multi-link suspension for precision handling

First revealed by Akio Toyoda at the 2016 North America International Auto Show, the styling, performance and craftsmanship of the new Lexus LC 500 clearly position it as the flagship coupe of the Lexus line-up.

Inspired by the acclaimed LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC represents a shift in Lexus’ engineering processes and design direction, and marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand.

Following the world premiere of the V8-powered LC 500, Lexus introduces the all-new LC 500h, which features the world’s first Multi Stage Hybrid System, next generation of hybrid powertrains specifically designed for performance vehicles.

Design: Seduction & Technology

Combining avant-garde elegance with dynamic coupe proportions, the seductive form of the new LC 500h remains remarkably true to the key design elements, proportions and visual dynamism of the award-winning LF-LC concept car that inspired it.

The LC 500h is enveloped by a glamorous exterior which represents a uniquely evocative, more fluid interpretation of Lexus’ L-finesse design philosophy.

With a long 2,870 mm wheelbase, compact 920 mm front and 970 mm rear overhangs and a notably low bonnet line, the coupe’s athletic profile is characterised by a sweeping roofline which tapers from the central position of the occupants, creating a uniquely human-centred silhouette.

Front and rear wings that house wide, large diameter wheels flare away from the centre position of the occupants, whilst the door sides are pulled inwards to create a powerfully three-dimensional form –in plan view, a new spindle architecture shape which mirrors Lexus’ signature spindle grille.

To the front, the latest interpretation of that spindle grille motif features chrome trim and a radical new mesh design of varying visual tension. The LC 500h’s unique lighting signature combines independent, arrowhead Daytime Running Lights (DRL) with a triple LED headlamp unit, the ultra-compact engineering of which has helped to maintain the coupe’s low bonnet line and short front overhang.

To the rear, the sweeping cabin roofline tapers between broad, muscular rear wheel arches to reinforce the LC 500h’s wide, stable stance. The rear lamp signature is equally unique, a sequence of increasingly strongly lit L-shaped LED lamps that creates an exceptional three-dimensional impression.

The outstanding driving dynamics of the LC 500h are also reflected in subtle yet functional aerodynamic measures. Front and rear wheel arch venting improves high speed stability, and a rear diffuser and active rear spoiler further manage airflow during performance driving.

The new LC 500h will be available with a choice of bespoke, 20” cast and 20” and 21” forged aluminium alloy wheels.

Driving Pleasure & Comfort

The all-new interior design of the LC 500h reflects the exterior design theme of dynamic luxury with a cabin that combines all the elegance, quality and sophistication of a Lexus premium coupe with high driving pleasure and comfort for passenger.

Whilst the front passenger area is shaped to spread out towards the front, creating a comfortable and welcoming space, the driving position has been painstakingly created to invite spirited driving, and promote driver confidence through an intuitive control layout and ergonomic excellence.

The driver’s hip point has been engineered to be as close as possible to the coupe’s centre of gravity, maximising feedback from the vehicle to the driver. And the holding performance of the seats has been enhanced through a renewed focus on the cross-section design.

Particular attention has been paid to the design of a new steering wheel, which features a change in cross-sectional shape throughout the rim circumference to accommodate variations in grip and the twisting of the wrist during operation. And new, larger magnesium alloy paddle shifters have been shaped for easier reach and a more positive action.

All information displays have been carefully arranged in order of importance by their proximity to the driver’s sight line. The instrument binnacle itself houses a variation of the innovative driver’s meter with moving centre ring from the LFA, and the centre console features a next-generation touch pad of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

The 2017 Lexus multimedia package debuts with the LC, and features faster, more flexible software enabling future enhancements and an updated graphic user interface. Listeners will also be treated to an exceptional audio experience inside the cabin: in addition to the available audiophile-worthy Mark Levinson audio package, a new premium Pioneer audio system comes as standard equipment.

Throughout the new interior, the quality and finish of upholstery, hand-stitched leather centre console and dash pad, and drape forming Alcantara door trim, reflect a level of Takumi craftsmanship and attention to detail for which Lexus is globally renowned.

Multi Stage Hybrid System

The Multi Stage Hybrid System was developed with opposing goals in mind: to create a hybrid with a more sporting and engaging driving experience by closely aligning engine speed with throttle inputs, and to achieve the best possible balance of power and fuel consumption.

The new Multi Stage Hybrid System marries the elements of a traditional full hybrid powertrain -including a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine, a powerful electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack- to a 4-speed automatic gearbox mounted at the rear of the hybrid transmission.

The electric motor generates better acceleration feel than a conventional engine, and adding physical gears more closely aligns engine rpm with the driver’s inputs. The result is a much more direct connection between the accelerator pedal and vehicle acceleration, and 0-100 km/h times well into the sub-5 second range

The Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System also features ‘M’ Mode - the first driver-initiated gear shifts offered on a Lexus full hybrid powertrain. ‘M’ Mode gives drivers the ability to initiate direct and responsive gear shifts for the most sporting and engaging drive yet from a Lexus hybrid.

A new lightweight and compact electric motor and a lithium-ion battery offset the weight of the added automatic transmission, and so the Multi Stage Hybrid System weighs the same as the current hybrid powertrain—an amazing feat of engineering.

All-New Platform

Heralding a new generation of more engaging and responsive vehicles, the new LC 500h has been designed to offer customers a significantly sharper, more refined driving experience. It combines the superior ride quality befitting a flagship luxury sports coupe with an engaging, dynamic drive and a depth of character unlike that of any previous Lexus.

The LC 500h is the first Lexus to benefit from the company’s all-new, premium rear-wheel drive platform; part of a new corporate global architecture for luxury vehicles (GA-L). The underpinnings of this new coupe will become the blueprint for future front-engine/rear-wheel drive Lexus models.

Platform design is fundamental to dynamic handling characteristics. At the outset, Lexus engineers focused on what they refer to as the LC 500h’s ‘inertia specification’, placing most of the vehicle mass, including the engine and occupants, as low and centralised as possible within the chassis.

The powertrain mass is located behind the front axle line creating a “front mid-ship” layout while very short front and rear overhangs push the large diameter tyres to the vehicle extremities. The wheels are shod with run-flat tyres that eliminate the weight and weight-distribution penalty of a full-size spare tyre, while driver hip and heel points have been substantially lowered.

The centre of gravity has been further lowered by the introduction of numerous technical innovations which reduce the body weight of the LC 500h. These include aluminium front hood and fenders, aluminium door skins mounted on a carbon fibre structure, a carbon and glass composite boot lid, aluminium front suspension towers, ultra-compact LED headlamps, available forged alloy wheels and carbon fibre roof.

The extensive use of strategically located high-tensile steel body structures reduces weight, improves weight-distribution and increases body rigidity, all of which promote consistent, predictable handling behaviour and sharper steering responses.

Particular attention has been paid to the development of the LC 500h’s multi-link front suspension system, adopted to allow for the vehicle’s large diameter wheels while at the same time accommodating a very low bonnet line.

The system features two upper and two lower control arms, with double ball joints on each arm. This arrangement optimises suspension geometry to facilitate precise control from driver inputs and road conditions, creating a more precise steering response.

Optimising the sharpness in both steering and suspension movement, sprung weight has been reduced as much as possible through the extensive use of lightweight, forged aluminium componentry. And the system demonstrates exceptional rigidity under lateral g loading.

In combination, these chassis and suspension development measures offer an entirely natural, non-taxing driving experience which combines sharp responses, exceptional handing balance and straight line stability with the ride comfort appropriate to a Lexus flagship coupe.

Class-Leading Safety Standards

The new LC 500h is fitted, as standard, with the Lexus Safety System +, a newly developed portfolio of active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions across a wide range of traffic situations.

Combining a camera and millimetre-wave radar for a high level of detection performance, the Lexus Safety System + features a Pre-Crash safety System (PCS) with a pedestrian detection function, which helps prevent or mitigate the severity of collisions, All-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keep Assist (LKA) and Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp technology.

Specifications

Length: 4,760 mm

Width: 1,920 mm

Height: 1,345 mm

Wheelbase: 2,870 mm

Layout: Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive

Fr/Rr overhang: Fr: 920 mm, Rr: 970mm

Wheel size:

1. 21 “ (forged aluminium-available)

2. 20 “ (forged aluminium-available)

3. 20 “ (cast aluminium-standard)

Tyre size:

1. Fr: 245/40 RF21, Rr: 275/35 RF21

2. Fr: 245/45 RF20, Rr: 275/40 RF20

3. Fr: 245/45 RF20, Rr: 275/40 RF20

Engine type: 3.45L hybrid engine

Engine capacity (cc): 

3,456

Valve mechanism: 24- Valve DOHC VVT-i

Cylinders: 6

Bore (mm): 94

Stroke (mm): 83

Engine Maximum output (kW): 220 @ 6,600 rpm

Battery Maximum output (kW): 44.6

Battery type: Lithium-ion

Battery voltage (V): 310

Battery weight (Kg):50

Total System Output kW (hp_ps): 264 (354_359)

Target 0-100 km/h (sec.): below 5

Brussels, Belgium - Lexus will unveil the hybrid version of its all-new LC luxury coupe at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The LC 500h is equipped with Lexus’ next generation hybrid powertrain, the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, providing more performance, enhanced driving pleasure and greater efficiency.

The LC was first revealed at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Its styling, performance and craftsmanship position the vehicle as one of Lexus’ flagship models. The LC also utilizes Lexus’ new architecture that promises enhanced dynamic capability.

Inspired by the acclaimed LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC represents a shift in Lexus’ engineering processes and design ideologies, and marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand. Its outstanding visual appeal has been unanimously praised and recognized by professionals who granted LC two EyesOn Design awards for Best Production Car and Best Interior Design at the 2016 NAIAS.

Lexus will also display the LF-FC concept at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. LF-FC is a visionary new vehicle that offers a peek into the design and technology direction of Lexus’ future flagship sedan. Initially revealed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the LF-FC is powered by a high output fuel cell system. It also features an advanced touchless human machine interface as well as automated driving technologies.

The Lexus Press Conference will take place on March 1 at 11:30 at the Lexus stand (number 4211) in Hall 4, Palexpo