LEXUS NEWS

• Lexus LF-LC provide glimpse into future with 2+2 luxury sports coupe
• LF-LC features powerful, yet efficient hybrid powertrain
• Exterior demonstrates evolution of Lexus' unique "L finesse" design language
• Interior debuts driver and passenger focused design with innovative technology, and race inspired materials

Lexus has given motorists a glimpse into the future with its sleek, hybrid powered, 2+2 LF-LC luxury sports coupe concept at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in the United States

The LF-LC, features a front mounted, powerful, yet efficient hybrid drivetrain puts its power to the ground via the rear wheels and has been designed to provide a driver focussed experience.

Inside the driver and passenger are the focus, treated to the latest in innovative features, including a remote touch-screen device for command of all on board vehicle functions and twin 12.3 inch multi-information display screens, light weight race inspired seats and a racing steering wheel.

Similar touch-screen surfaces to that on the dash also feature on each door and operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings

From the exterior, the coupe's highly aero efficient and boldly designed body provides a glimpse into the future of Lexus' unique "L finesse" design language characterised by Lexus bold new corporate face and spindle grille.

"The LF-LC concept demonstrates Lexus commitment to debuting exciting new technology and designs that engage all the senses," said Lexus Australia Chief Executive Tony Cramb.

"This concept combines innovative technology, with a powerful and efficient hybrid driveline - all wrapped in a visually stunning coupe body,

"The LF-LC concept also continues the evolution of Lexus' new spindle grille that will be debuted on the all-new GS range and gives an indication of things to come from Lexus in the future." Said Mr Cramb.

Designed by Lexus' Californian based design team, the LF-LC blends form and function, from its three dimensional spindle grille that seamlessly forms into lower air intakes that enhance visual muscle, air flow for cooling and aerodynamic performance.

"Our entire studio worked to develop this beautiful interpretation of Lexus originality," said Kevin Hunter, president of Lexus Californian design studio.

"The LF-LC concept embodies our vision of what a premium sport coupe could be." Said Mr Hunter.

From every angle, the LF-LC curves blend smoothly into dynamic angles, creating an inviting display of lines, shadows and corners.

Complimenting the concepts bold front end are sculpted "L" shaped daytime running lights, vertical fog lamps and a fading dot matrix pattern to convey a sense of movement.

Continuing the sense of motion, LF-LC's side profile is commanded by deeply sculpted air intakes behind the doors, while a wrap around glass roof provides a panoramic view to the outside world while slicing through the air.

Furthermore, the concept car's glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass junction inspired by modern architecture.

LF-LC's dynamic lines are carried through to the rear deck, sculpturally integrating the spindle grille theme to compliment the front of the vehicle while creating a unique sense of width.

Tail lamps, inspired by a jet's afterburner, make use of inner lighting to create a remarkable sense of depth.

The rear is also fitted with fog lamps, repeating the fading dot matrix pattern of the front fog lamps.

Visually, the integrated tail and fog lamps repeat the "L" shape and lead the viewer's eye down to the powerful Lexus quad exhaust.

The interior of the LF-LC concept vehicle contrasts the cool ambience of advanced technology with soft textures and organic shapes to create a driver-focused synergy of form and function.

The cockpit expresses a feeling of both openness and security. The driver is enveloped by deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console. The effect is to focus the driver zone on the controls and on the road.

Based on Lexus' commitment to creating an intuitive driving experience, the LF-LC incorporates a remote touch-screen device that allows the driver to comfortably operate controls without shifting position or altering line-of-sight.

Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display. Inputs come from a touch-screen control board piercing the swept centre console. Used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, the interface features a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex entries.

Set directly in front of the driver, multi-level meters layer analogue and LCD technologies.

The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the background for the Eco meter. The middle layer is the tachometer mechanical centre ring. The topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.

Surfaces throughout the cabin are presented in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents.

The lightweight, race-inspired front seats are formed of multiple layers and repeat the interlacing curves that define the cabin interior. The racing style steering wheel is also a lightweight design and contains integrated controls and start button.

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