Taking the Australian International Motor Show by storm, the LF-LC Blue hybrid coupe has certainly turned a few heads. Pushing the boundaries of performance, style and technology, the concept showcases the future of design for Lexus and it is the second version of the LF-LC, first debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in early 2012.
The LF-LC leverages project LFA with its extensive in-house experience of marrying carbon fibre and aluminium alloy materials to achieve a light body mass. The result is an extremely taut body that responds quickly to driver inputs, providing the perfect platform for the next generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system.
Displaying the new Lexus design language of the signature Lexus spindle grille and rear architecture, the LF-LC merges sumptuous curves and dynamic angles to totally reinvent the sports coupe. The profile of the LF-LC creates a powerful, dynamic silhouette that is unmistakably that of a serious driver's car. The lines of the vehicle emphasise direction and motion.
The dynamic cabin lines carry through to the rear deck, sculpturally integrating the spindle grille theme to echo the front of the vehicle. Air intakes in the bottom corners of the front grille demonstrate the fusion of distinctive style and engineering functionality.
Meanwhile, the Opal Blue exterior is inspired by the lustrous base colour found in the naturally occurring semi-precious opal stone of outback Australia.
Showcasing further improvements to the Lexus remote touch controller, 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. Used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, the interface even features a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex entries. Similar touch-screen surfaces operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings.
Inspired by technology directly from the Lexus LFA supercar, multi-level meters are layered with analogue and LCD displays. The bottom layer presents temperature and fuel with a background Eco Meter. The middle layer displays the tachometer and mechanical centre, while the topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.
The concept car's glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass juncture inspired by modern architecture. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car.
The tail lamps, inspired by the look of a jet afterburner at take-off, use inner lighting to create a remarkable sense of depth. Visually, the integrated tail and fog lamps create an "L" shape and lead the viewer's eye down to the powerful Lexus quad exhaust.
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 repeat the interlacing curves that define the cabin interior. The racing style steering wheel is also a lightweight design containing integrated controls and start button. Beautiful stitch details emphasise organic movement throughout the interior.
