Lexus Malaysia has announced that it is now accepting orders for the 2020 Lexus LC 500 Coupe, priced from RM1.25 million (without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia. This would be the third year that the LC500 has been in the market since going on sale (in Malaysia) in mid-2017. During that time, Lexus engineers have, in typical kaizen (constant improvement) philosophy, been looking at improving the car.
The improvements cover virtually all areas of the car, notably in enhancing driving dynamics, which is one of the strong points of attraction. In this respect, lightening unsprung weight was pursued and 10 kgs have been removed. One of the areas where weight was saved was in the 21-inch rear wheels and having forged aluminium front lower arms.
Updates were also made to the Adaptive Variable Suspension, including new bushings on the damper rods and a switch to independent rebound and compression orifices. Both changes allow for an expanded range of damping force for enhanced overall comfort.
The Electric Power Steering has been retuned to improve steering feel, and the assist levels have been altered along with stiffer steering box bushings. There’s now a more robust aluminium steering support mounting at the instrument panel and revised Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) tuning. Active Cornering Assist control and Dynamic Rear Steering are also present.
With its extremely high performance, advanced safety systems are important and the LC 500 comes with Lexus Safety System + which includes Front Pre-Collision System, Lane Keeping System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beam adjustment.
The powerplant remains as the proven 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine which generates maximum power of 470 ps/540 Nm of torque. It is paired with a close-ratio Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission.
For the exterior, there are two new colour choices – Blazing Carnelian Contrast Layering and Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic – while for the inside, additional options are Flare Red and Black/Orange.
Owner convenience is improved with the addition of a Power Easy Access that moves the driver’s seat and steering wheel further apart for easier exit. This, of course, only takes place when the engine is shut down.
On the dashboard, the layout remains driver-oriented and there’s now Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to interface smartphones, along with the provision of a 10.3-inch Electro Multi Vision infotainment screen.
“The new Lexus LC 500 remains one of the most dynamic and technically-advanced supercars available on the road today. With the updates made to the 2020 model, I believe that this is the car that will provide even greater driving pleasure to anyone with a passion for high-performance motoring whilst appreciating an automobile designed with passion,” said the President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
Imported and distributed by Lexus Malaysia, the LC 50 comes with a comprehensive 5-year/unlimited mileage factory warranty. Full aftersales support is available from 7 locations around Malaysia.
Following a global recall of a number of Toyota and Lexus models, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has announced a Special Service Campaign (SSC) to replace a fuel pump. In Malaysia, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has identified around 12,000 units of Toyota models (Alphard, Camry, Corolla, Innova and Fortuner) and 1,500 units of Lexus models (GS300, GS350, IS300, LC500/500H, LS460, LS500/500H, LS600H, NX200T/300H, RC350/300H, RX350/450H and RX350/450)
The vehicles were manufactured between 2013 and 2019 and distributed by UMWT. The company stresses that models not listed above are not affected by this recall.
Lexus NX is among the models which need to have the fuel pump replaced.
The issue with the fuel pump is that it may stop operating. If this were to occur, warning lights and messages may be displayed on the instrument panel, and engine power hesitation may happen. This may result in the vehicle stalling and being unable to restart. TMC is concerned that this could increase the risk of a crash while driving at higher speeds.
UMWT will officially notify affected vehicle owners to bring their vehicles in for the replacement of the fuel pump unit. There will be no charges for the parts and labour involved in this SSC.
If you own one of the vehicles listed and it was manufactured between 2013 and 2019 (and distributed through the authorised Toyota and Lexus network) but do not receive any notification from UMWT, you can contact any authorised Toyota Service Centre or call the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682) for assistance. For Lexus owners, contact authorised Lexus Service Centres or call the Lexus Freephone at 1800-22-LEXUS (53987).
Bookings are now accepted by Lexus Malaysia for the new UX 200, the premium brand’s compact SUV. Presumably, the stocks from Japan have arrived in Malaysia so the company should be launching it in the near future in three versions – UX Urban, UX Luxury and UX F-Sport. Prices (exclusing insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia range from RM243,888 to RM299,888 but if you buy and register in the duty-free zones, the price range would be RM156,472 to RM191,841.
“This dynamic new model is truly a product of creative engineering by Lexus led by its first female Chief Engineer. The design itself connects strongly with any audience as a car that is beautifully styled in the spirit of Engawa (Japanese traditional architecture seamlessly to connect inside with the outside). It also includes such high-end Japanese design elements as Sashiko upholstery (a Japanese stitching technique). The UX is the first Lexus model to offer a new trim grain finish that’s inspired by the grain of Japanese paper know as Washi, familiar in traditional Japanese home” said Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.
Global Architecture-C Platform
The UX 200 has the signature spindle grille that unifies every Lexus model and of course, keen attention to detail and quality that have always been hallmarks of the brand. The compact SUV, developed on the latest Global Architecture-C Platform (GAC Platform), has a stable and dynamic chassis to give a distinctive driving character with refined driving dynamics.
Aiming to help lower road accidents, Lexus has installed the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), an integrated suite of safety systems that assist the driver and enhance motoring safety. This system employs sophisticated sensors and cameras on board to not only reduce or avoid accidents but also removes the daily stresses of commuting through some of its functions.
Lexus UX 200 engine
10-speed direct-shift CVT
Features-wise (depending on the version), the UX 200 will have items such as a power back door with ‘kick-open’ function, wireless charging, panoramic-view mirror, and a 10-speed direct-shift CVT with the new M20A-FKS petrol engine.
“We believe that this All-New Lexus UX 200 model will be a head-turning model with a strong appeal to the urban motorist. Its high level of sophistication and technology with Lexus engineering makes this one of the most appealing compact SUVs available on the market today,” added President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
All units of the UX 200 imported and distributed by Lexus Malaysia come with a comprehensive warranty of 5 years with unlimited mileage. Being the authorised distributor, Lexus Malaysia ensures that there is complete aftersales support available to its customers and has 7 locations across Malaysia with Lexus-trained technicians, diagnostic equipment and genuine replacement parts.
Visit www.lexus.com.myto know more about Lexus products and service in Malaysia.
Chinese New Year is a time when many homes have an Open House, welcoming visitors to celebrate the beginning of a new year together. This forms an important fabric of Malaysia’s multi-racial culture which is enjoyed by everyone.
At Lexus Malaysia too, there will be an Open House this weekend (February 1 & 2) with all Lexus Centres nationwide welcoming visitors to their showrooms from 10 am to 4 pm. Omotenashi (hospitality) is a dominant element in Lexus culture and visitors will experience it as they are invited to partake in the merriment, fun and festive activities prepared exclusively for them.
All visitors to Lexus CNY Open House celebrations will also receive an exclusive door gift and be treated to a Lion Dance performance.
While at the Lexus Centre, it would be a good opportunity to also find out more about the Lexus models available and even experience them on a test-drive. The Lexus range today offers premium sedans, SUVs and sports coupes, all engineered to the superlative standards that have defined the brand for 30 years.
Those who take test drives will receive a gift as a token of appreciation from Lexus Malaysia. Should they be convinced that they want to own a Lexus, there are exclusive deals throughout the duration of the event.
All the new models sold by Lexus Malaysia come with a comprehensive warranty 5 years with no limit on mileage travelled after registration. Complete aftersales support is available at authorised Lexus dealerships across Malaysia with professional technicians having received extensive training by Lexus at the service centres.
For more information and to locate a Lexus Centre in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
Carmakers must be very optimistic about continuing their business in the distant future, with Porsche having designed a starship in collaboration with LucasFilms. Now, Lexus has revealed a vehicle for use on the moon, joining an elite group of design industry luminaries selected to contribute a suite of design concept drawings to Document Journal’s prestigious portfolio.
For Document Journal‘s issue No. 15, the art & fashion magazine invited a selection of the culture’s most compelling architects and designers to imagine human life on the moon for The Lunar Design Portfolio. How shall we live? What will it look like? What will we wear? What will we drive?
ED2, the European Advanced Design Studio for Toyota and Lexus dedicated to advanced concept proposals and groundbreaking design, was selected to contribute a lunar mobility concept. Drawing on the just-released LF-30 Future Concept vehicle, the studio created a series of 7 concepts from 5 different designers, all ready to tackle the lunar landscape.
”When Document Journal approached us about the Lunar Design Portfolio, our team was working on the LF-30 Concept, which represents the ‘Lexus Electrified’ futuristic vision for the brand. The design team was already looking beyond near-term production and ahead to how advanced technology will change the way we interact with vehicles,” said Ian Cartabiano, President of ED2.
“The lunar project came at the right time, halfway through the LF-30 development. It gave the team a chance to dream further out, and then apply some of the design language from the LF-30 interior to their lunar proposals,” he added.
Lunar MissionZero-Gravity
Zero Gravity, the concept sketch selected to appear in the print issue of the magazine, is a single rider vehicle that evolves the LF-30’s ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision to incorporate Magnetic Levitation technology. The design reinterprets the signature Lexus spindle grille and uses the motorcycle-style of driving to employ the new concept of Tazuna (which mean ‘reins’ in Japanese): the fundamental human-centered philosophy. Inspired by how a single rein can be used to achieve mutual understanding between horse and rider, the steering control provides active driving enjoyment created by the direct communication between human and machine.
CosmosLunar Cruiser
The other proposals are the Lunar Cruiser, a multipurpose vehicle that can provide a smooth ride over rough lunar terrain and the Cosmos, which has a lot of glass for a panoramic view. The Moon Roller is a rotating vehicle while the Moon Racer could be the future Lexus LX for exploring the moon. The Lunar Mission is a transport vehicle to take earthlings to the moon.
Visit www.lexus.com.my to know more about Lexus models you can buy in Malaysia today.
It’s not so long ago that the safety provisions in cars – even those at the top end of the market – did little except provide protection when an accident had happened. Passive safety features, such as seatbelts, airbags and a strong body construction were the key elements. The thinking then was to provide as much protection as possible to minimise the injurious effects of the accident.
When it came to avoiding an accident, the active safety features like ABS and vehicle stability systems helped the driver to retain a degree of control. Instead of ending up in a drain or against a tree, such systems corrected the movements of the car to try to stay on course.
Today, cars have systems that are able to recognise the risk of an accident, alert the driver to the hazard and, if necessary, intervene automatically to prevent a collision, or reduce the consequence it there is an impact. Such systems often begin at the upper end of the market, so it’s not surprising that Lexus has been a pioneer in the field. Its investment in the research, development and deployment of sophisticated new technologies is central to the brand’s goal of securing a future where there are no road accidents.
When the original LS 400 was launched 30 years ago, it was the first car in the world to feature an SRS (Supplementary Restraint System) airbag integrated into the steering wheel – the precursor of multiple airbag systems designed to give effective protection to everyone inside the car. This led to world’s first dual-chamber passenger airbag, fitted to the second generation IS 200 in 2005. Its unique structure greatly improved protection for the neck and shoulders.
Today, Lexus models can feature as many 10 different airbags around the cabin, including knee, side and curtain shield systems and front airbags that activate in line with the severity of the impact.
The behind-the-scenes work at Lexus to improve and devise new safety systems doesn’t just focus on cars and how they are driven. It goes further to analyse and understand the human body and how people react physically in the moments before an impact.
The key to this research is THUMS – Total Human Model for Safety – a computerised crash test system that replicates the not just the size and shape of the human body, but also the position, density and vulnerability of its internal muscles, bones and organs. It’s adaptable for different ages, too, with virtual modelling of infants, older people and even pregnant women. THUMS’s digital mapping can track the properties of around 20 million points on and inside the human body.
THUMS can obtain extremely detailed information about the human body during an accident using advanced digital mapping.
In 2015, Lexus bundled its principal new safety features in a new package called Lexus Safety System +, revealed for the first time on the fourth generation RX SUV. This was the start of a worldwide roll-out of the safety system with its wide-ranging availability demonstrating Lexus’ belief that, to be effective in reducing accidents and injuries, new safety technologies need to be provided on as many vehicles as possible. Democratising cutting-edge safety technology means these features cannot be restricted to the high-grade models only but are offered on entry and core vehicles.
A Lexus vehicle with a variety of sensors carrying out tests for autonomous operation.
Over the past 4 years, Lexus has improved the scope and the functionality of its safety these systems, enhancing their capabilities. In 2017, the launch of the all-new LS 500h flagship sedan marked a significant leap forward in safety with the debut of Lexus Safety System + A. This cutting-edge portfolio included a series of world-first features, with a level of driver assistance that propelled our progress towards future automated driving systems. Although not formally classified, Lexus Safety System + A meets the criteria for SAE Level 2+ automation – the industry standard for automated driving capability.
Future automated driving systems will have an important impact on road safety, having the potential to reduce the number of traffic injuries and fatalities, while also easing congestion (which helps the environment) and enabling older and disabled people to enjoy mobility.
It’s that time of the year when the festivities to celebrate the end of the year start. If it was a good year for you, then there’s reason to celebrate and if it was not good, there’s also reason to celebrate because it’s going to end, and a new year is just around the corner.
At Lexus showrooms throughout Malaysia, there’s definitely a festive mood with ‘UNWRAP AMAZING’, an event to be held from 10 am to 4 pm this weekend (December 7, except Lexus Centre Ipoh which will be on December 14).
A special Christmas doorgift is presented to all visitors to the Lexus Centres and it will certainly set them in the mood to UNWRAP AMAZING. Within the showroom, Amazing Experiences await them with the liberal use of high-tech digital innovation and technology to elevate all the five senses, creating the unparalleled Lexus experience.
For those who want to understand why Lexus vehicles have been so highly regarded all over the world, the best way to do so will be to go for a test-drive. Whether they have a preference for a SUV, sedan or sporty coupe, there’s a Lexus model available to experience. As a token of appreciation, guests will receive a gift after their test-drive.
All Lexus models have the latest Active Safety technology with the Lexus Safety System, keeping occupants safe on all journeys. There are systems to automatically brake the car in an emergency, alert the driver when the car deviates out of its lane, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and of course, airbags all around the cabin to give added protection during accidents.
At Lexus Mutiara Damansara in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, there will also be additional festive activities. Visitors can join in the Ginger House-Making workshop and enjoy special performances by Wilson Jong & Thomas Phillip Musical at various times of the day.
The renowned standards of Lexus are inspired by the Japanese tradition of omotenashi (hospitality) which every visitor to any Lexus centre will experience, right from the time he or she enters the refined environment of the showroom. Whether going for a test-drive or enjoying a cup of coffee from Café Richard, customers are always at the centre of the Lexus Amazing Experience.
While at the showroom, visitors can also find out more about Lexus Malaysia’s Corporate Privilege Programme. The programme is available with the purchase of any new Lexus model, from the luxurious ES to the RX SUV that blends practicality and prestige, to the NX that pushes the boundaries of a crossover. Qualified customers can receive discounts and free service packages along with enjoying a 5-star lifestyle marked by Amazing Experiences.
For the locations of Lexus Centres in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
It’s been a busy month for Lexus on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. At the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show, the brand unveiled the LC500 Convertible and today, at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition in China, it is presenting its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the UX 300e. The new model is scheduled to go on sale in the Chinese and European markets next year, and in Japan early in 2021.
Electrified vehicles are not new to Lexus though as the company offered a hybrid variant of the RX400 in 2005. It is now making a bigger leap in electrification in tandem with the Toyota Group’s direction with its global electrification strategy called ‘Lexus Electrified’.
The technology of Lexus Electrified
In particular, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in hybrid vehicles. With this technology, there can be control of the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. The high-performance level of the GA-C platform is enhanced with additional braces and optimization of the shock absorbers’ damping force to match the dynamic changes of electrification.
As the first production model under the Lexus Electrified banner, the all-electric UX 300e was developed for excellent on-road performance. Lexus engineers kept the distinctive design and the utility characteristics of the UX crossover intact, and focused on the opportunities to build on the performance advantages unique to EVs.
The Drive Mode Select function lets drivers enjoy smooth acceleration and deceleration according to their situation. There is powerful acceleration and instant torque of the electric powertrain with 4 levels of deceleration regeneration during braking.
400-km range with zero emissions
The UX 300e’s high-output motor, which generates 150 ps/300 Nm, provides a natural-yet-brisk acceleration character, and the high-capacity battery pack located directly underneath the floor of the cabin delivers a low centre of gravity with the promise of a 400-km driving range.
While BEVs are naturally quiet, the UX 300e adds insulation beyond just the battery and suppresses outside noises such as wind or pebbles which would be otherwise noticeable in the absence of an engine and transmission. It is said to have one of the quietest cabins in its class, as befits the sound management heritage of the Lexus DNA.
At the same time, the engineers also focused on sound while driving to provide a natural feeling. Active Sound Control (ASC) transmits natural ambient sounds to allow for understanding of driving conditions, while providing a natural ambience for the cabin’s occupants.
Connected to the max
The Lexus engineering team also adopted the latest connectivity technology to maximize everyday usability and the functionality with smartphones. By linking to a smartphone using a dedicated app, drivers can check the battery state of charge and driving range. Charging controls are also included such as timer function to inform the owner when the vehicle will be fully charged or to schedule the charging according to when the vehicle is expected to be driven next. The app also allows the owner to remotely control various convenience functions such as the air-conditioner, seat heaters, and window defrosters.
For more information on Lexus models in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
With positive response to the concept model of a convertible version of the Lexus LC 500 shown at the North American International Auto Show in January this year, Lexus decided to go ahead and make a production version. 10 months later, the new LC 500 Convertible has its global debut at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. Sales will commence in selected markets from mid-2020.
Unveiled in stunning Morphic Blue – to be produced as a 300-unit limited-edition from launch – the LC 500 convertible artfully harnesses the coupe’s sleek contours and sleek proportions while further leveraging the LC design. Incidentally, this is only the third production convertible in the 30-year history of the brand.
The compact roof design allows the bootlid of the convertible to be lifted and widened to further emphasise the low and broad stance, while retaining the coupe’s flowing roofline and strong aerodynamic performance.
High-quality fabric roof design
Excellent packaging ensures the LC 500 convertible body is just 10 mm longer (4.76 metres) and 5 mm taller than the coupe, with a retained 4-seat capacity and near-identical luggage space. Carefully selected roof fabric ensures optimal tension and no wrinkling, without the supporting frame visible through the fabric.
The roof design is enhanced by Lexus’ signature attention to detail, confirming excellent thermal properties, superb refinement and effortless retraction in just 15 seconds while travelling at up to 50 km/h. The automatic folding mechanism stores the roof under an integrated tonneau cover when lowered, melding elegantly with the LC’s beltline that kicks up at the end of the doors to provide a tight and clean wrap-around appearance.
The beautifully crafted and indulgently specified interior is enhanced by exclusive door handles and ‘L’ embossed headrests with neck heaters inside the LC 500 convertible – supporting the leading comfort and luxury that is the Lexus DNA.
Focus on aerodynamics and quietness
A focus on aerodynamics around the beltline and rear mold design creates a space to feel the excitement of open-air driving without hindering conversation in the car. In combination with a transparent polycarbonate wind deflector, wind flow inside the car is suppressed and impressive quietness achieved, it is claimed. Likewise, the audio system can adapt its performance to deliver the best sound quality depending on whether the roof is open or closed.
In colder climates, the Lexus Climate Concierge will maintain a comfortable environment within the seating area, taking into consideration whether the top is up or down. The appropriate adjustments will be made to the air conditioning, seat heaters, neck heaters and even steering wheel heater.
Active Noise Control (ANC), combined with sound insulation and absorption techniques, supresses unwanted noises and unpleasant frequencies while emphasising the soundtrack of the 477 ps/540 Nm Lexus 5-litre V8 petrol engine (with a DirectShift-10 automatic transmission). A sound generator transmits sensual engine intake sound through the dash panel, while an exhaust valve further enhances the sound of the high output.
With the fabric roof and open top, additional safety provisions must be incorporated to protect the occupants in the event of a roll-over. Besides the strong structure around the windscreen and taller side airbags, there are also struts which will extend if the car turns upside down.
Rigidity level equal to coupe
A newly designed body structure also achieves a rigidity level equal to the coupe. For maximum strength and reduced weight, the front bow structure of the roof frame is produced in magnesium alloy. A strategically placed and shaped rear suspension tower brace is composed of lightweight die-cast aluminium to minimise added weight, and a Performance Damper is adopted for high-quality ride comfort.
Exploiting the advantages of the GA-L front-and-rear multi-link rear-wheel drive platform, the LC 500 convertible features new Active Cornering Assist and active roll-bar technologies to further enhance the driving experience. A 52:48 weight distribution also shifts slightly rearward compared with the coupe.
Since Lexus was created in 1989 as Toyota’s luxury brand, it has usually been used as a technological showcase, introducing new technologies that in later years trickle down to Toyota models (Optitron meters are on example). It has enjoyed autonomy to choose its direction and product portfolio, coming out with successes like the RX which was a game-changer when it appeared in 1997. And while the Toyota brand steadily gravitated towards electrification, Lexus stuck with big internal combustion engines that still had demand from its upper strata customers.
This is not to say Lexus has not been supporting hybrids; since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, the brand has been among the pioneers in electrification technologies, examples being the two-stage reduction gear and the multi-stage hybrid system.
Like most global brands that want to continue their business into the next decade, Lexus now has to prepare for electrification on a bigger scale, as the ‘big picture’ for the Toyota Group dictates. At the same time, its upcoming generation of electrified vehicles must offer the brand experiences that have been part of the reason for its continuing success.
LF-30 – Lexus Electrified Vision in 3-dimensional form
The Lexus LF-30 Electrified concept unveiled at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment – even as mobility within our society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.
Presenting the vision in 3-dimensional form as the LF-30 concept, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in hybrid vehicles. With this technology, it is claimed that it will be possible to control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation, enhancing safety and driving pleasure.
Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology regulates the drive-power output from high-torque electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities. Completely independent control of front and rear drive wheels allows appropriate provision of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation.
Compact and lightweight drive-power units expand freedom in vehicle packaging and are used to enable the driver to enjoy ideal driving, regardless of the road surface or driving conditions. As a core element of Lexus Electrified, Lexus intends to widely apply this technology throughout its line-up of electrified vehicles.
New design freedom with a BEV
In taking up the challenge of expressing a new design that could only be achieved with a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) powered by in-wheel electric motors, Lexus visually articulated the LF-30’s unique energy flow. The car’s form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the bodywork streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface. ‘Voltaic Sky’, the colour of the exterior, employs a leading-edge metal-infused coating to achieve a unique quality tinted by a touch of blue-green.
Taking advantage of a shape that has no defined bonnet – made possible by being a BEV – Lexus’ designers further evolved the signature spindle form to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which continually stretches from the front to rear, the muscular fenders, and the wing-shaped headlights now form the contours of the Lexus iconic spindle.
The shape of the body is fashioned with an elegantly flowing front which transitions into a linear and sharp rear. In addition to the wing-shaped headlights, the sharpness of the rear lights and side air intakes combine to achieve both excellent aerodynamics and cooling performance, resulting in styling fused with function.
The opacity of the side windows can be freely adjusted, providing occupants with expansive views of the surrounding scenery and a high level of privacy at night and in other situations. The colour of the front face of the car and luminescence patterns help identify from the outside whether it is being operated in its normal mode or in its autonomous driving mode, reflecting the brand’s pursuit of both a high level of styling and functionality.
Tazuna – new Lexus concept
Adhering to Lexus’ fundamental human-centered philosophy, the cockpit was designed based on the new Lexus concept of ‘Tazuna’. Inspired by how a single rein can be used to achieve mutual understanding between horse and rider, the steering controller-mounted switches and head-up display have been coordinated to a high degree, creating a space that enables the driver to focus on driving while controlling various functions, such as the navigation and audio system and driving-mode selection, without having to shift one’s vision or operate manual switches.
As an indication of the future image of a Tazuna cockpit, the LF-30 employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality). With the layout of the front passenger seat echoing that of a first-class seat on an airliner, the interior is one in which a sense of openness and a sense of envelopment coexist.
The rear seats use artificial muscle technology to mold to their occupant, and can support various modes such as reclining, relaxation, and alert functions. A Mark Levinson audio system creates a next-generation listening environment, in which minute speaker control establishes ideal acoustic spaces for music listening pleasure for the driver and each passenger, and speakers built into the headrests not only provide an optimal audio environment but also have a noise-cancelling feature that contributes to enhanced quietness.
A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture-controlled ‘SkyGate’ display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favourite videos, and even navigation.
Sustainable materials
In addition to its unique design, the interior also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden. Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibres for use in creating the pleated door trim. This approach expresses Lexus’ distinctiveness and innovative spirit.
Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. Occupants can enjoy both comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed. Furthermore, a self-parking function and a front-door pick-up function in which the LF-30 autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep will provide an especially high level of convenience.
The LF-30 also carries the ‘Lexus Airporter’ drone-technology support vehicle. Using autonomous control, the Lexus Airporter is capable of such tasks as independently transporting baggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.
Specifications of the LF-30 concept
First production Lexus BEV next month
While we won’t see a model looking like the LF-30 in Lexus showrooms anytime soon, we will see the first BEV with a Lexus badge having its global debut next month. It’s not known if this will be adapted from a current model (like how Volvo has done with its XC-40 Recharge) or something entirely new. But it is confirmed that the first Lexus PHEV with a new dedicated BEV platform will be launched in the early part of the next decade.
By 2025, Lexus will have electrified versions of all its models, with the aim for sales of electrified models being higher than those of conventional internal combustion engine models.
Visit www.lexus.com.my to know more about Lexus models you can buy in Malaysia today.
