Lexus IS F CCS-R Race Car

Lexus has reveals the IS F CCS-R race car, ahead of its debut at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on July 8, 2012

The Pikes Peak Hill Climb is an annual automobile and motorcycle hillclimb to the top of the Pikes Peak mountain in Colorado. The track measures 12.42 miles with over 156 turns and climbs 4,720 feet.

The car overall weight is 693 lbs. lighter than the stock model thanks to lightweight doors, exterior and interior carbon fiber parts, lightweight bucket seats and other .

the Pikes Peak version is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine developing 416 hp and 371 lb-ft of torque, connected to an eight-speed transmission and a limited-slip diff at the back. That combined with the lightweight body should make it a helluva lot faster than the base car.

Inside, the car is also stripped down to cut weight. The dashboard is replaced with carbon fiber, and there are lightweight seats. In total, it weighs in at 3,087 lbs, which is 693 fewer than the production version.





Press Release

Lexus IS F CCS-R Race Car

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase 107.5 in.
Overall Length 187.4 in.
Overall Width 71.5 in.
Overall Height 54.5 in.

WEIGHT
Curb Weight 3,087 lbs. or less (693 lbs. less than stock)

ENGINE
Designation 2UR-GSE
Displacement 5.0L
Horsepower 416 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque 371 lb.-ft. @ 5,200 rpm
Fuel system SFI D-4 direct-to-cylinder injection with secondary port injectors

DRIVETRAIN
Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive system
Transmission 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode

EXTERIOR
Orange mica exterior paint
Reinforced monocoque (with roll cage)
Carbon fiber hood, door handles, front fender, front spoiler, front canard, rear spoiler, ventilator
Polycarbonate windows
Lightweight door

WHEELS/TIRES

SSR
18x8.5J, off-set 30 front
18x9.5J, off-set 40 rear
Yokohama /ADVAN NEOVA A050 tires
245/40 R18 front
255/40 R18 rear

BRAKES
Brake cooling system
Racing brake kit
Stainless steel mesh brake hose

SUSPENSION
Adjustable camber front upper arm
Modified race suspension
Reinforced bushings and mounts

EXHAUST
Racing exhaust system
OTHER MECHANICAL
Engine oil cooler
Transmission oil cooler
Differential oil cooler
Mechanical LSD

RACING EQUIPMENT
120L fuel cell
Air jack system
Fire extinguishing system
Data logger
Kill switch
Tow strap

INTERIOR
Carbon fiber dashboard, center console, door and interior trim
HANS compatible full bucket driver's seat
Lightened interior (delete power windows, door locks, rear seats, roof lining, etc.)
Six-point seat belt
Small-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters

Frankfurt Motor Show: 2013 Lexus GS 450h【Video】

Lexus has unveiled the 2013 GS 450h, which will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The 2013 Lexus GS 450h Hybrid is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor. The two powerplants drive the rear wheels both independently and in tandem, as needed. Together, the unit produces an nice 338 horsepower, allowing for a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 131 mph.

The hybrid model gets high- and low-beam LED headlamps and LED taillamps standard. The cabin has a standard climate control system, a bamboo-trimmed steering wheel and a hybrid monitoring system and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Much of the interior and safety features will match those previously announced on the GS 350 model.


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Press Release

All-New 2013 GS 450h Unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show

• GS 450h Features Second Generation Lexus Hybrid Drive System
• Fuel Economy Improved by More Than 30 Percent
• New Atkinson Cycle V6 with Gas Engine

FRANKFURT - Sept. 12, 2011 - With a five vehicle hybrid line-up, Lexus reinforces its commitment to hybrid technology with the all-new 2013 GS 450h. When it was introduced for the 2007 model year, the GS 450h was the first hybrid-powered luxury sport sedan to enter the market. Today, the GS 450h is the world's first premium performance sedan to be equipped with a V6 Atkinson cycle gas engine and two-motor hybrid system, in a front engine rear-wheel drive vehicle.

The hybrid version of the 2013 GS 350 incorporates improvements to its hybrid powertrain and is equipped with a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system. GS 450h engineers have aimed for reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while providing exhilarating performance.

With a total system power output of 338 hp, the GS 450h will accelerate effortlessly from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Conversely, fuel consumption is expected to be improved by more than 30 percent. The GS 450h is targeting certification as a Super-Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (SULEV II). The new GS hybrid also features a Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the driver can customize the driving experience using Eco, Sport S, Sport S+ and EV modes.

"The all-new GS 450h will provide our customers with an exciting blend of performance and precision in a new hybrid package," said Mark Templin, Lexus group vice president and general manager in the U.S. "With its dynamic exterior styling, roomy interior and advanced technology features, the GS 450h further demonstrates Lexus' mastery of the luxury hybrid."

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
As with all Lexus hybrid vehicles, the new GS 450h is a full hybrid capable of operating in gas-only or electric-only modes, as well as a combination of both. Its Lexus Hybrid Drive system features an ultra-smooth running, Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor. The two powerplants drive the rear wheels both independently and in tandem, as needed.

In addition to the gas engine and electric motor, the new GS 450h's hybrid drive system a generator; a high-performance nickel-metal hydride battery; a power split device which, via planetary reduction gears, combines and re-allocates power from the engine, electric motor and generator according to operational requirements; and a compact power control unit to govern the high speed interaction of the system components.

Adapted specifically for the hybrid powertrain and a first for premium performance sedans, the 3.5-liter V6, DOHC engine benefits from several technical improvements including the adoption of the Atkinson Cycle engine design to optimize the fuel-efficient benefits of Lexus Hybrid Drive.

Compression is delayed in an Atkinson Cycle engine, because the intake valves close late. This creates a high expansion ratio for less compression, reducing intake and exhaust energy losses and converting combustion energy to engine power more effectively.

A high compression ratio of 13:1; a new, mid-port intake tumble generator; and the adoption of the latest evolution of Lexus' four-stroke, direct injection technology, D-4S, help the GS 450h achieve better fuel consumption.

With one injector installed in the combustion chamber and a second mounted in the intake port, D-4S combines the strengths of both direct and port injection, realizing optimum engine efficiency throughout the power band and improving torque across the rev range, while minimizing fuel consumption and emissions.

The D-4S system features new slit-type injector nozzles with a modified port shape, a higher fuel pressure for more efficient combustion, and idle port injection for improved NHV characteristics.

Engine noise, vibration and friction have been lowered through the adoption of lightweight chain technology.

The cooling performance of the hybrid system's Power Control Unit (PCU) helps reduce fuel consumption and has been improved through the adoption of dual cooling paths and a single-piece, integrated AC/DC converter.

System control has been enhanced. The PCU boosts motor drive voltage to a maximum 650V in Sport mode and limits it to a maximum of 500V in Eco mode under normal driving conditions where maximum output is not required. The motor is driven at lower voltage to provide a more environmentally-advanced driving performance to help enhance fuel efficiency.

The electric motor features lighter mounts and reduced friction. The system's regenerative braking operation range has been expanded, contributing to further improvements in fuel efficiency. In addition, the battery layout has been redesigned. A new stacked configuration maximizing luggage space allows the 2013 GS 450h to have more cargo area than the previous generation gas model.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
All second-generation GS hybrid models have a new platform that is designed to be more rigid compared to the previous models. Engineers conducted extensive platform testing, ultimately increasing the number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track works in combination with a revised suspension design to assure a more solid stance and superior cornering performance.

The new suspension system is designed to help guide the 2013 GS through corners with precision. In the front, upper and lower control arms are made from aluminum and employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, using improved suspension geometry that retains tire cornering force and enhances rear control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shocks can use lighter-viscosity oil, so they move easily and respond to small inputs more quickly.

The use of front and rear aluminum control arms helps reduce unsprung weight and results in significant improvements in agility, roll damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Overall, the suspension is lighter and stronger, allowing it to react to driver input readily, and ride quietly without harshness. Ventilated disc brakes featuring four-piston aluminum front calipers includes the latest electronic enhancements to help provide braking balance and control.

The GS 450h also offers the Lexus Dynamic Handling system, an integrated four-wheel steering system. The leading edge platform technology of the Lexus Dynamic Handling system offers Lexus' first integration of Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS); Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS); Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS); and the latest generation of Lexus' unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system to help coordinate every aspect of front and rear wheel control and provide agile, sharp and confident driving behavior with a more direct response to the driver's actions.

The Lexus Dynamic Handling system integrates the control of the Electric Power Steering (EPS), VGRS and newly developed DRS. Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. Using VGRS to the front and DRS to the rear, the system can independently control both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle stability and overall agility when cornering.

The DRS system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input, to a maximum of 1.5 degrees. At speeds below 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions. At speeds over 50 mph, front and rear wheels turn in the same direction.

Further coordinating DRS with VGRS, AVS and VDIM, the Lexus Dynamic Handling system will automatically customize the adaptive suspension tuning and active safety systems to suit road conditions, vehicle speed and driving style, giving customers confidence to experience the new GS' exceptional driving performance.

The standard 17-inch alloy wheels are paired with 225/50R17 tires while the optional 18-inch alloy wheels are equipped with 235/45R18 tires. The GS 450h's Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB) system characteristics have been modified to provide greater responsiveness from the first touch of the pedal.

Safety/Security Features
Like the GS 350, the GS 450h will be standard equipped with 10 airbags, including a knee airbag for both driver and front passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags. Also standard are new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats that reduce the space between the occupant's head and headrest, to help limit excessive head movement, and help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain types of collisions. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats further assist occupant protection.

Available options to help further enhance safety include a pre-collision system, which uses the dynamic radar cruise control system to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision. The system also uses a Lexus first infrared camera to monitor the driver's eyes to check on driver status. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate light braking intervention up to two seconds prior to impact, designed to help to lessen the severity of the collision.

Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display (HUD); a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). LKA provides a small amount of active steering torque to help maintain course, while the LDW feature alerts the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.

Exterior Design
The 2013 GS expresses a new generation of Lexus' design philosophy with its precisely sculpted exterior and will lead the rest of the lineup in an entirely new direction. When designers shaped the GS they visualized the flow of air around it and, like the LFA supercar, maximized aerodynamic efficiency.

Exclusive to the hybrid model is a unique three-lamp design that aligns the turn signal and Lexus-first high and low beam LED lamps in a single horizontal row. The improved illumination and beam range provided by LED lamps offers better visibility even under low beam driving conditions. In addition, the rear bumper of the GS 450h covers the exhaust pipe apertures. The GS 450h can also be distinguished by Lexus' signature blue hybrid badging.

The GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the trunk area all help direct air over and past the car. The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car steady. Finally, air inlets located on the outer edges of the lower grille serve as cooling ducts.

The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours evolved from current Lexus styling and fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow. This distinctive Lexus design feature combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle's confident and dynamic character.

From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious sport sedan with a road-hugging wider stance. The tapered lower rocker panel and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion. Width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches adds an athletic stance enhancing the vehicle's dynamic presence.

The rear bumper features centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance. Overall, the new GS sheet metal represents a significant extension of the Lexus L-finesse philosophy that is the core of all Lexus product design.

The GS line-up will feature three colors that are new to the Lexus color palette: Riviera Red, Meteor Blue Mica and Liquid Platinum. Vehicles in Riviera Red will benefit from glass flakes incorporated into the coating that adds a high level of brilliance to the paint. Lexus engineers developed a new advanced coating process for Liquid Platinum exteriors. The GS will be the first Lexus to adopt this new coating technology. Vehicles with the Liquid Platinum exterior will appear more radiant as an additional metallic texture gives both strong shading and defined, sharp highlights. This metallic effect makes subtle and defined bodylines more noticeable and the surface appear finely polished.

Interior Design
The GS 450h will share the same luxurious and technological amenities as its gas counterpart, including next generation Remote Touch; analog clock with LED indicators, carved from an ingot; and a new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow that focuses airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated. A few notable differences include a bamboo-finished steering wheel which reinforces the sustainability of the GS 450h, and the hybrid monitor.

"There is no other mid-luxury hybrid like the new GS 450h," said Lexus'Templin. "The handling, acceleration, and design of this Lexus hybrid are impeccable. We can't wait for customers to drive one."

2012 Lexus GS【Video】

Lexus will unveil the all-new 2012 Lexus GS at the upcoming Concours d’Elegance event at Pebble Beach on August 18. The new Lexus GS will be the production version of the recently unveiled Lexus LF Gh Concept that was shown at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne earlier this month.







Press Release

Automotive journalists test the all-new GS ahead of its official launch.

Swathed in detail-obscuring covers to protect its identity, pre-production versions of the next generation GS were test-driven by a select group of top European journalists - no fanfare, no publicity, just the drive and the experience. Inspired by the dynamic LF-Gh concept, this car is poised to be the new face of Lexus.

Participants drove the new GS in testing conditions at an exclusive proving-ground. Chief Engineer, Yoshihiko Kanamori was in attendance from Japan to gather valuable feedback. The journalists enjoyed the luxurious and spacious interior and were able to test the dynamic and engaging handling characteristics to the full. Although disguised, these trusted correspondents were able to get a taste for the soon-to-be-unveiled styling. This new chapter in the history of Lexus will be revealed at Pebble Beach, California on 18th August 2011.

The new Lexus IS 250C Limited Edition has been announced.

The 2011 Lexus IS 250C coupe convertible is one of the most stylish coupe-convertibles on the market, with its gleaming front end and quiet deploying electric folding roof that can let you enjoy open-top motoring in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button. To add to the appeal of the model, Lexus has announced it is now available in a special Limited Edition version.

The new IS 250C Limited Edition will be distinguished by black and red semi-aniline fine leather interior, perfect for cutting a dash when driving with the top down. Each unit will get a numbered badge fixed inside the glovebox in order to denote its special status. The model is equipped with a quick and quiet deploying electric folding roof that goes up and down in just a few seconds after the touch of a button.

Also available in time for the summer is a panoramic glass roof option for the Lexus RX 450h SE-I, available as a build-to-order option for £900. Seamlessly integrated into the design of the hybrid crossover, the fixed roof allows light to flood into the cabin.

The special edition model is based on the regular SE-L and as such comes fitted as standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, electric one-touch easy access to the rear seats, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats with built-in ventilation and heating plus climate control that automatically adjusts temperature settings when the roof is down. Available for order now, the IS 250C Limited Edition is priced in the UK at £39,990 on the road.

 

2011 Lexus LS 460 Touring Edition

Lexus has announced that the new 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition will carry a base price of $73,875.

This limited edition model will feature a sporty body kit, sport seats, and a wood and leather steering wheel. Plus you also get a new grille and 19-inch wheels for some extra curb appeal. So if you’ve wanted your LS to stand apart from all the other LS’s at the country club parking lot, this new version would appeal to you.

Inside, unusual matte brown wood trim stands in contrast to the black and tan leather-trimmed seats. Wood trim is also used on the steering wheel and shift knob.




Press Release

Lexus 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition

• Limited Units Will Be Produced
• Features Sport Body Kit
• Sport Seats, Wood and Leather Steering Wheel

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 17, 2011) - Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $73,000 for the 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition (rear wheel drive model) which will arrive at dealerships in late June/early July. The MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875.

"The Touring Edition adds excitement to our flagship sedan," said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. "The package on this car enhances styling and comfort, allowing us to attract younger buyers to the LS line-up."

The 2011 LS 460 Touring Edition will be available on both the LS 460 Rear Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive models. It will be distinguished from other LS models by a Smoky Granite Mica exterior, and following equipment:
19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (18-inch on All-Wheel Drive model):
Sport kit and grille;
Sport seats;
Wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob;
Other Touring Edition standard features include matte brown wood trim, black and tan leather-trimmed seats and premium floor mats.

"The LS 460 Touring Edition is a unique package of sporty exterior styling and comfort. With limited units available nationwide they'll sell out fast to customers who want an all-inclusive luxury package," said Templin.

2011 Geneva Preview: Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package

Lexus just releases new photos and details for the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package ,which will debut at the Geneva auto show next week.

The package celebrates Lexus’ class victories at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring last May. Lexus isn’t actually adding to LFA production; instead, the automaker says that 50 of the 500 cars set to be built will be equipped with the package.

Available in Matte Black, Black, White or Orange, the interior can be had in Black and Red, Black and Pur­ple or all Black. Plus, all Nurburgring editions get added carbon  fiber interior bits, plus carbon racing seats.

Power is also on the up. From the standard 4.8-litre V10 with 560 PS (412 kW / 553 bhp) comes a new power figure of 570 PS (419 kW / 562 bhp) and reduced gearshift times. Performance times are also down; 0 - 62mph flashes by in 3.7 seconds and top speed is 325 km/h (202 mph).

The automated manual six-speed transmission’s shift regime has been recalibrated too, swopping gears in only 15 miliseconds, thereby enabling the LFA Nürburgring package to sprint from 0-100km/h in only 3.7 seconds.




Press Release

LEXUS PRESENTS LFA NÜRBURGRING PACKAGE

• Lexus reveals special performance package for its LFA supercar at the Geneva motor show
• Nürburgring Package offered as an option on a maximum of 50 cars - just 10 per cent of the total LFA production run
• Designed for more track-focused performance through additional aerodynamic elements, lowered suspension and engine revisions
• 10bhp increase in power from V10 engine to 562bhp ensures LFA's 0-62mph acceleration time of 3.7 seconds is maintained
• LFA production underway since December, with one hand-crafted car completed per day
• Use of advanced, automated Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) production processes serves as a test bed for future models

To celebrate the LFA's hat-trick of class wins at the Nürburgring 24 Hours race, Lexus has created the Nürburgring Package, an array of aerodynamic features, suspension adjustments and revisions to the 4.8-litre V10 engine that give the supercar a more track-focused profile. Shown in public for the first time at the Geneva motor show, the performance option is available on just 50 of the 500 cars that will be built. These versions will be crafted during 2012, the second full year of LFA production.

To sharpen the car's circuit driving performance even further by increasing downforce at high speed, the Nürburgring Package introduces modifications and additions to several key carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) components. These include a larger front spoiler, fin-type side spoilers, a canard fin and a fixed rear wing.

To ensure the LFA maintains its 3.7-second acceleration time from nought to 62mph, in spite of the increased drag, the V10 engine has been revised to increase maximum power by 10bhp to 562bhp. Shift times in the six-speed sequential transmission are just 0.15 seconds.

In terms of handling modifications, the package features suspension tuning and a 10mm reduction in the ride height. Exclusive mesh-type wheels are introduced, fitted with dedicated high-grip tyres.

Exterior colour choices are restricted to matte black, black, white or orange, with interiors finished in black and red, black and purple and all-black. Cars delivered in Europe will feature a carbon fibre centre console and door trims, with carbon fibre sports seats finished in Alcantara.

Customers who specify the package will also be offered one-to-one driving tuition from a Nürburgring chief instructor and a year's pass to enjoy their car on the famous Nordschleife circuit.

CFRP parts manufacturing

LFA production began in December with just one hand-crafted car completed per day. A team of 175 people are involved in CFRP parts manufacturing, vehicle assembly and painting.

CFRP is exceptionally strong, rigid and lightweight, and accounts for about 65 per cent of the LFA's body structure weight. This amounts to a saving of about 100kg, compared an equivalent all-aluminium body.

Lexus is producing and assembling the CFRP components in-house, with a view to future development of the technology. It is a time-consuming process, compared to working with steel or aluminium, but the LFA project provides a valuable test bed for new, automated processes which will be used in the manufacture of future Lexus and Toyota models.

Different manufacturing technologies are used according the shape, role and required properties of each component.

• Pre-preg: this is an industry-standard composite sheet material made of carbon fibre, pre-impregnated with epoxy resin. It is used for the LFA's main structural elements, such as the dash, side and cross-members and panels.

• Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM): this is dry sheet fabrication, with epoxy resin injected into the mould. It is mainly employed in the LFA's secondary main frames, such as the crash boxes, roof side rails and vehicle floor.

• Carbon fibre - Sheet Moulding Compound (C-SMC): this is used for fabricating the upper body components and frames that have complex geometries.

Adhesive bonding

The LFA assembly line moves through five consecutive processes, each of which has been digitally validated. For the first four - sub-assembly, underbody, small aluminium parts and main body - adhesive bonding is used. Final assembly of the aluminium parts is by mechanical fastening.

This is the first time Lexus has used adhesive bonding for main body assembly, a process that has required new quality control measures to be implemented to ensure each of the five stages involved in the bonding meets the required criteria.