Using its F1 knowledge, Toyota introduces the luxury Lexus LF-A concept car at the Detroit Motor Show this week.
Using its F1 knowledge, Toyota introduces the luxury Lexus LF-A concept car at the Detroit Motor Show this week.
“The Lexus LF-A is like no sportscar we have ever built or even imagined,” said Jim Press, Toyota Motor Corporation executive vice president.
“The LF-A is theoretically developed to run a parallel course to our company’s efforts in Formula One racing,” he added. “It would probably feature a powertrain and drivetrain configuration strongly influenced by whatever is being used in competition at the time.”
“Currently only a concept, it is a realistic vision of how we might address the boundaries that define the exotic sportscar landscape,” Press continued.
The two-seat vehicle combines luxury with the speed and agility of the Toyota F1 car to produce a very intriguing sportscar. The LF-A is fitted with an engine capable of producing about 373 kW, which should propel the car to a top speed of around 320 km/h.
Making a bold statement about the future of Lexus cars, it is meant to signal the brand’s global change in direction. Simplicity has been prioritised, while the positioning and function of many major components has been readdressed. The elegant, uncluttered interior and exterior designs gives the concept a stylish, yet purposeful, look.
“Over the last two years, a new styling philosophy has taken shape at Lexus Design,” said Wahei Hirai, Toyota Motor Corporation’s global managing officer of design.
“What has emerged from this two-year journey is not just a new direction in philosophy – it is a new design language, based on the dynamism and inherent contrast between simplicity and elegance.”
The coupé has been designed as a high-speed projectile to compete with the likes of the Ferrari F430, Porsche 911 and the Mercedes-Benz SL55 while combining the sumptuousness of Lexus with current race technology.