Title: Lexus Reveals Lf-gh Hybrid Concept
Description: 1 July 2011
Stephen - July 6, 2011 01:29 PM (GMT)
LEXUS REVEALS LF-Gh HYBRID CONCEPT
• LF-Gh concept breaks cover at Australian International Motor Show
• Debuts aggressive new design direction for Lexus and an evolution of "L finesse" design philosophy
• Concept explores Lexus' future direction with aggressive and bold spindle-shaped front grille
The Lexus LF-Gh hybrid concept has debuted at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne.
Taking a 'clean sheet of paper' approach, the Lexus Design Division wanted to explore what the future of Lexus vehicle design could represent, while still holding true to Lexus' unique "L finesse" design philosophy - first debuted on the current model GS sedan.
The team aimed to blend functionality, style, performance, efficiency and environmental compatibility in a premium, luxury sports sedan while leveraging advanced new technologies.
Careful attention to form and function has been paid to every part of the vehicle's design, ensuring that design does not impede function - particularly in relation to aerodynamic efficiency.
The result is the LF-Gh concept, a hybrid-powered, rear-wheel drive vehicle that has a bold, wide stance and aggressive styling, combined with a unique new face for Lexus.
"For this concept, Lexus designers studied characteristics that are often considered contradictory and difficult to execute together," said Kengo Matsumoto, general manager, Lexus Design Division.
"The captivating design of the LF-Gh concept examines the possibility of balancing what are normally opposing qualities, such as style and functionality.
"Although only a concept, we hope the LF-Gh will resonate with our customers worldwide and communicate our intention to once again advance ideas about the face of Lexus luxury in the years to come," said Mr Matsumoto.
Lexus Australia chief executive Tony Cramb said that LF-Gh is a tangible demonstration of Lexus design and engineering expertise.
"LF-Gh heralds a new era of Lexus design and demonstrates Lexus' commitment to innovative design and engineering - evidenced in Lexus' industry-leading hybrid driveline technology.
"LF-Gh's bold and aggressive design blurs the line between our growing hybrid and performance vehicle portfolios - offering the perfect blend of performance, fuel efficiency and looks.
"LF-Gh captures the essence behind all future Lexus vehicle design - call it "L finesse" 2.0 if you like," Mr Cramb said.
Dramatic and bold, yet light and agile
Viewed from the front, design elements contributing to the assertive effect include a bold, spindle-shaped grille that expresses the resolute face of Lexus, contributes to radiator and brake duct function, and is an essential element in achieving excellent aerodynamic performance.
As an example, air flows in through front inlets adjacent to the unique vertical LED fog lamps, and exits through similar slim rear outlets that follow the curve of the tail lamps from the rear quarter panel.
The concept also explores the minimisation of traditional features such as side mirrors and door handles to enhance sleekness and improve aerodynamics.
The spindle-shaped grille, a powerful design element that contributes to the commanding presence of the LF-Gh, also plays a role in controlling air flow and enhancing stability.
It is a key feature that integrates distinctive style with engineering functionality without compromise in either discipline, and will be inherited by future Lexus models.
An athletic and strong stance is achieved through the contrast of the tapered torso and long cabin, with width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches.
The form of the lower body begins from the short front overhang and is cross-cut in the middle of the rocker panel, leaving the rear overhang looking light and agile.
Dynamic front fenders work to create a sense of movement, pushing down towards the ground to convey a low, crouching centre of gravity.
The raised bonnet implies ready and powerful performance potential.
The rear deck has a robust, raised centre deck lid that lets the air glide smoothly backward to flow into the rear fenders.
Deeply sculptured dynamic twin spokes stemming from the centre of the 20-inch wheels enhance an instinctive sense of driving appeal.
Lexus designers took advantage of increased width that provides an expansive canvas for distinct, wrap-around LED tail lamps.
The use of distinctive tail lamps and intricately designed reflectors, with high intensity boomerang-like outlines, lie behind all-red lenses and contributes to a unique yet strong visual presence, while also tying the front and the rear of the car together.
Judicious use of slim chrome trim elements in the bumper exhaust and integrated diffuser adds a premium touch.
Unique LED headlamps and independent L-shaped LED daytime running lights ensure that the Lexus face will be like that of no other car on the road.
In luxury sports sedan tradition
The LF-Gh was designed to be a high-performance concept capable of providing a moving driving experience, and comfortably transporting multiple occupants at higher speeds on long-distance drives.
It combines a strong sense of presence and emotional appeal with functional attributes, supplying enhanced creature comforts plus the practical ability to transport personal supplies and luggage necessary for extended travel.
While maintaining passenger comfort, it is a car designed to inspire and captivate the driver, even after hours behind the wheel.
The distinctive long greenhouse design provides the potential for functional passenger benefits, such as generous interior room for all passengers, ample cargo area, and excellent forward visibility.
LED lighting hints at the range and scope of new materials, electronics and dynamic systems that endow this concept vehicle with state-of-the-art performance, driving control and safety features.
Overall, the LF-Gh's styling embodies the definition of what an authentic luxury sports sedan from Lexus could be.
A high-tech, human-focused interior
The cabin of the LF-Gh is the product of a meticulous re-examination of every detail, with the aim of making an interior that is driver-oriented and simple to use.
The driver's zone includes a meter panel with excellent visibility and a console with intuitive operability.
An all-new analogue clock with a three-dimensional face, a contemporary and exclusive timepiece suitable to a premium luxury brand, is a focal point of the interior and represents a shift in Lexus' design philosophy.
Use of genuine, high-quality materials and rich, finely honed details help create a driver and passenger space consistent with the idea of a fully-fledged luxury sports sedan.
It is an interior designed to respond to the needs of customers who know true quality, and are particular about details.
Hybrid Drive
Blue LED Lexus Hybrid Drive badges located on the front grille and rear trunk lid signal an intention to provide equal measures of fuel efficiency and performance on demand.
The rear valance blends sculpted exhaust tips for a very clean, finished look - minimising the presence of the exhaust system to suggest that the flow of exhaust gas will be substantially reduced.
Taken as a whole, the treatment emphasises that this hybrid concept is designed to comply with the exceptionally low emissions requirements of the future.
The LF-Gh design supports engineering that changes current notions of power, efficiency, safety and environmental consideration in a premium luxury car.
