2012 Paris Motor Show Lexus Press Kit

1. Lexus LF-CC concept (link to images)

LEXUS LF-CC CONCEPT CAR

LF-CC displays latest evolution of Lexus’s L-finesse design language and signature spindle grille, which will be reflected in styling of future compact executive (D-segment) models
Paves the way for the introduction of a new Lexus mid-size coupe in the hear future
Concept equipped with a new 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain with CO₂ emissions targeted below 100g/km, soon to be introduced in the Lexus model range

The LF-CC is a new mid-size coupe concept that presents design and technology ideas that will influence future models.

It follows on from the award-winning LF-LC 2+2 sports coupe concept which debuted at the Detroit show earlier this year as a more compact model with rear-wheel drive and full hybrid power. It shares design cues with the earlier show car and demonstrates how Lexus is using its concept studies to influence future production models, in this case cars for the compact executive car market – the D-segment.

The LF-CC heralds the launch of a premium mid-size Lexus coupe in the near future and reinforces the company’s commitment to creating more engaging cars that are attractively styled, deliver a better driving experience and harness the potential of advanced technologies.

Exterior design

The LF-CC displays the latest evolution of Lexus’s L-finesse design language and presents the boldest interpretation yet of the spindle-shaped grille that has become a signature feature of new Lexus models. The grille mesh is set in a deep, metal-finish surround and takes on a pronounced 3D form, framed by the lip of the bonnet, the deep lower spoiler and the projecting tips of the front wings.

The three-LED projector headlamp units are set in a narrow gap between the upper and lower wing surfaces and dispense with the conventional one-piece cover. Separate daytime running lights are integrated into the upper bumper surface.

The broad lower leading sections of the front wings are aerodynamically sculpted to manage the flow of air into the engine bay and front brakes, while at the same time reinforcing the powerful road presence created by the frontal design.

In profile, the strong convex curve of the bonnet flows seamlessly through a steeply raked windscreen into a roofline that peaks towards the rear of the cabin – a deliberate style detail designed to emphasis the power of the rear-wheel drive powertrain.

The bodywork is stretched taut between the car’s front wings and rear quarters. The shape of the rear wings is less pronounced, reinforcing the concentration of vehicle weight over the driven wheels to gain maximum traction.

An airflow regulating fin merges with the falling roofline in a prominent rear spoiler integrated in the bootlid, fusing design and aerodynamic elements to give the vehicle its distinctive coupe proportions.

At the rear the full-width bumper flows into the rear wheel arches, emphasising the car’s broad stance. Characteristic Lexus L-shaped rear lamp clusters have a layered, 3D design, and the lower, concave bumper incorporates a full width spoiler, further enhancing rear-wheel traction. In a neat detail, the stop lamp is integrated into the shark‘s fin antenna.

The LF-CC is finished in a new Fluid Titanium colour, a metallic paint with exceptionally high brilliance that combines sharp, bright highlighting with dark-shaded surfaces to show off the bodywork’s sculpted surfaces.

Interior design

The LF-CC’s interior hints the kind of progressive luxury Lexus envisions for future cabin layouts, with further development of its HMI (human-machine interface) technology.

The dashboard is divided in an upper Display Zone, with a multi-display screen positioned for at-a-glance viewing, and a lower Operation Zone, with a new-design shift lever and touch tracer display for remote control of a range of vehicle systems.

The zonal treatment creates a fusion of an airy and spacious cabin with a sporting cockpit that puts the emphasis on a snug and focused driving environment. All the drive function controls are located immediately around the driver’s seat, combining excellent ergonomics with advanced HMI technologies.

The driving position is set low and is highly focused, with a wide grip sports steering wheel, careful positioning of the pedals and high visibility instrument dials. The touch tracer display is located directly behind the shift lever for easy and comfortable operation.

The seats, door panels and instrument binnacle are trimmed in a warm amber-coloured leather that strikes a pleasing contrast with the Fluid Titanium exterior. Extensive use of soft touch materials and metallic finishes reinforces the overall premium quality feel of the interior.

New 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain

The LF-CC is equipped with a new 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain that is destined for use in future production models, and which delivers combination of sporting performance suitable for a mid-size coupe and low emissions, targeted below 100g/km. Lexus expects the powertrain to be the most efficient in its class, producing more than 2bhp per gramme of CO₂.

This Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain uses a new, ultra-smooth 2.5-litre four-cylinder DOHC petrol engine, mated to a compact, high-output electric motor.

In addition to the engine and electric motor, the system also features a generator, high-performance battery, a power split device and compact power control unit.

The engine has been adapted specifically for use in the hybrid powertrain and benefits from a number of technical improvements, adopting the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise both power and fuel efficiency.

This new powertrain will be introduced in the Lexus model range in the near future.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Length (mm)	4,660
Height (mm)	1,375
Width (mm)	1,840
Wheelbase (mm)	2,730
Seating capacity	4
Driven wheels	Rear-wheel drive
Engine type	4-cylinder, 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle
Target CO₂ emissions (combined cycle)	100g/km
Batterytype	Nickel-Metal Hydride
Transmission	E-CVT
Suspension	Front: double wishbone Rear: multilink
Wheel size	20-inch
Tyres	Front: 245/35R20 Rear: 285/30R20

NEW LEXUS LS

Flagship limousine adopts latest Lexus styling inside and out
Even more refinement and comfort, with innovative and useful advanced technologies
Improved driving dynamics
Introduction of the first F Sport version of LS with sportier styling and sharper handling

The Lexus LS has evolved with the times in the 23 years since the original model was launched, and amassed more than 730,000 sales worldwide.

At the same time it has remained true to four fundamental qualities: using world-first, cutting edge technologies; delivering the highest quality with an essentially Japanese sense of style and detail; unrivalled cabin quietness; and the kind of smooth and comfortable ride that befits a flagship luxury saloon.

The new LS is a significant development of the current generation model, which since its introduction in 2006 has benefited from 2,500 improvements. At a stroke, the new LS adds a further 3,000 changes, including three world-first features and 15 features and technical innovations that are firsts for Lexus.

It has not been a case of change for change’s sake either: Lexus has responded to customer feedback throughout every aspect of the car’s development. The aim has been to raise the bar even higher in terms of refinement, comfort, driving performance, technical excellence and, above all, quality.

Design

The LS’s exterior has undergone a comprehensive redesign. Reflecting the direction next-generation Lexus models will take, it adopts the distinctive spindle front grille arrangement that has become a feature of all new models since the introduction of the CT 200h last year. This underpins a stronger Lexus brand identity, coupled with greater road presence.

In a first for Lexus, all lights – headlights, rear lamps and fog lights – are available with LED technology. The new vertical fog lights use the world’s smallest PES lens (Poly Ellipsoid System, 30mm diameter), and there are also new L-shaped, seamless light tube daytime running lights.

In the cabin the new instrument panel design is divided into two zones: an upper Display Zone, with the ultra-wide 12.3-inch LCD multi-display screen – the largest on the market – and a lower Operation Zone, featuring system controls such as the second generation of Lexus’s Remote Touch Interface and a new Drive Mode Select.

The number switches has been reduced by combining functions and the centre cluster has been made more compact. There is also a new, smaller, three-spoke steering wheel with a greater range of adjustment.

Lexus craftsmanship and attention to detail can be witnessed throughout the interior. In another Lexus first, the analogue clock uses GPS technology to keep correct time, and there is a new Shimamoku stripped wood option for the steering wheel and instrument panel trim. In another neat touch, the smart key is finished in combination of leather and metal alloy.

Refinement, comfort and progressive features

Comprehensive improvements have been made to engine, road and wind noise sound insulation, and, in a Lexus-first, new hollow chamber noise reduction wheels can be fitted, which cut the amount of noise experienced in the cabin. Lexus tests have found that for those in the rear seats, conversational clarity is rated at 100 per cent when the LS is travelling at 62mph (100km/h), confirming the new LS as the quietest car in its class.

The new model benefits from greater structural rigidity and a series of measures designed to further reduce vibration and improve ride comfort. A Lexus-first laser screw welding technique means panel joint adhesion can be achieved across entire surfaces, rather than being limited to individual spots; together with adhesive body bonding, this delivers a marked increase in overall body rigidity.

The front seats and their heating and cooling functions have been improved and, in a world first, the front and rear seat climate control can be automatically co-ordinated and incorporated in the new Lexus Climate Concierge system. The most advanced system of its kind in the world, it provides all the benefits of multi-zone climate control together with automatic integration of seat heaters/ventilation and even the steering wheel rim heater.

The interior is lit by the world’s first Advanced Illumination System with new soft white interior lamps and LED instrument panel lighting that moves and changes in intensity in line with vehicle start-up and switch-off.

As well as focusing on greater refinement, the interior also presents further advances in Lexus’s human-machine interface technologies. The award-winning Remote Touch Interface gives easy and intuitive control of the car’s infotainment systems, via a 12.3-inch multimedia display.

The Lexus Navigation system benefits from powerful HDD capacity and internet connectivity, making it one of the fastest and most accurate systems on the market. AllUKversions will be fitted with a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround System, and the rear seat entertainment system has been upgraded to include a high definition Blu-Ray DVD player with 5.1 home theatre entertainment quality.

Powertrains

The new LS is available with two powertrains: the LS 460 uses a 4.6-litre V8 petrol unit and the LS 600h is fitted with the full hybrid Lexus Hybrid Drive system.

A series of improvements, including the use of low viscosity oil, a low resistance differential gear and revisions to the control systems, have reduced CO₂ emissions in both powertrains. The new LS 460 emits 249g/km and the LS 600h 199g/km.

Maximum output in the LS 460 has increased by 7bhp (5kW) to 382bhp (285kW) at 6,400rpm, with maximum torque of 493Nm at 4,100rpm. It uses the world’s first eight-speed automatic transmission and can accelerate from rest to 62mph in 5.7 seconds.

TheLexus Hybrid Drivein the LS 600h delivers an unparalleled balance of performance and environmental efficiency. The 5.0-litre V8 engine produces 389bhp (290kW) and the electric motor 221bhp (165kW), giving peak combined power of more than 439bhp (327kW). This makes the new LS the world’s most powerful full hybrid V8. Acceleration from nought to 62mph can be accomplished in 6.1 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 155mph (250km/h). Combined cycle fuel consumption is on a par with a 3.5-litre engine at 32.9mpg.

Driving dynamics

The new LS’s driving dynamics have been rigorously upgraded in the pursuit of greater refinement, ride comfort and high speed stability, and to give the car a more sporting and engaging driving quality.

Body rigidity has been improved (see above) and the car’s aerodynamics have been improved and the dampers tuned to give a smoother and more highly controlled response to achieve a flatter, road-hugging ride with maximum comfort. The electric power steering and the multilink suspension have been revised to improve steering feel and response, vehicle agility and stability.

Lexus has also developed the LS’s Adaptive Variable Suspension with a new four-wheel interlock control, which suppresses roll, pitch and heave vibration at all four wheels simultaneously.

The braking system has been adjusted to give more immediate power and better pedal feel. Even the length of stroke, angle and contact surface of the brake pedal have been tweaked to make braking more responsive and comfortable.

The new LS gains another Lexus first in the form of its Drive Mode Select, offering five switchable driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport S and Sport S+. These provide easy adjustment of vehicle systems to help deliver the driver’s preferred balance of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics.

A number of vehicle systems that were previously operated independently have now been consolidated within the Drive Mode Select for ease of use. Changing modes is quick and easy, using a dial selector on the front console.

F Sport

The new F Sport grade – introduced in the LS range for the first time – combines more sporting exterior and interior design elements with genuine dynamic enhancements. The car’s centre of gravity is lower, with the Sport air suspension reducing the body height by 10mm.

Exterior design features that set the F Sport apart include dedicated front grille, and front and lower rear bumper treatments and specific 19-inch wheels and badging. In the cabin there are exclusive colour schemes, 16-way adjustable sports front seats embossed with the F Sport emblem, a dimpled leather steering wheel trim and matching gear lever finish, paddle shift controls and aluminium sports pedals and scuff plates.

The rear-wheel drive LS 460 F Sport model further benefits from the addition of a torque-sensing Torsen limited slip differential, an active stabiliser system for improved body control and steering response, a dynamic chassis set-up and Brembo six-pot front brake callipers.

All F Sport models are fitted with paddle shift controls, with automatic throttle blipping on downshifts on the LS 460 F Sport.

The LS 460 F Sport sounds the part, too, thanks to an intake sound generator on the engine that amplifies the vibration of the intake pulse and introduces it into the cabin.

Advanced safety

The new LS is fitted with the Lexus’s Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system with collision avoidance assist. The most advanced system of its kind in the auto industry, it is designed to help the driver avoid an accident, or if the worst happens, mitigate the consequences of a collision, with vehicles or pedestrians. It can operate across a wide range speeds, and in daylight or darkness.

When the system detects a vehicle, pedestrian, or obstacle ahead, an alarm alerts the driver to take appropriate steps to avoid a collision. If the relative speed between the LS and the obstacle ahead exceeds 25mph (40km/h), the system automatically applies brakes and brake assist to slow the vehicle and help to reduce the severity of a collision.

If the relative speed is less than 25mph, and the driver does not take corrective action after receiving the alarm alert, the system automatically applies the brakes. At these speeds, the system is designed to bring the vehicle to a stop to avoid a collision.

The technology is intended to assist drivers, but it is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of the vehicle’s surroundings. The system cannot prevent all collisions and performance is dependent upon road, weather, and vehicle conditions.

The new LS is available with a new, Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) which automatically switches between low, high and shielded headlight beam modes. It can increase the time spent driving on high beam illumination by up to 50 per cent.

The Lane-Keep Assist system has been upgraded so that it can respond to external factors such as changes in road camber changes and crosswinds. A Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system is also available.

Manufacturing

Lexus applies an Advanced Craftsmanship process for the manufacture of the new LS at its Tahara factory, helping ensure the quality that has earned the marque numerous global awards for reliability and customer satisfaction.

Advanced Craftsmanship fuses state-of-the-art automated manufacturing and digital measurement technology with the expertise of Takumi master craftsmen – highly skilled technicians – at every stage of vehicle development, production and quality control. It uses several techniques that are unique in the motor industry, achieving significant improvements not only in overall, machine-measurable quality, but also in the perceived quality of every component, as in the tactile quality of surfaces, the visual quality of component fit and even the aural quality of the engine note.

The Tahara assembly process involves stringent built-in quality checks unique to Lexus. This painstaking checking process is further bolstered by several tests that are exclusive to LS manufacture: all assembled parts are measured during the inspection process, every engine undergoes a rigorous balance test, and every vehicle is test driven before delivery to the customer.

LS 460 and LS 600h

The new Lexus LS 460 and LS 600h will go on sale in theUK later this year, with further details of performance, specification and pricing to be announced.

Preliminary technical specifications

HYBRID SYSTEM	LS 460	LS 600h
Type	–	Series/parallel, full hybrid
Combined power (bhp/kW)	–	439/327
ENGINE
Engine code	1UR-FSE	2UR-FSE
Type	V8, longitudinally mounted	V8, longitudinally mounted
Valve mechanism	4 valves per cylinder DOHC, chain drive, dual VVT-i, VVT-iE for intake	4 valves per cylinder DOHC, chain drive, dual VVT-i, VVT-iE for intake
Bore x stroke (mm)	94.0 x 83.0	94.0 x 89.5
Displacement (cc)	4,608	4,969
Compression ratio	11.8:1	11.8:1
Fuel system	EFI, D-4S	EFI, D-4S
Fuel type	95 octane petrol, or higher	95 octane petrol, or higher
Max. power (bhp/kW @ rpm)	382/285 @ 6,400	389/290 @ 6,400
Max. torque (Nm @ rpm)	493 @ 4,100	520 @ 4,000
ELECTRIC MOTOR	LS 460	LS 600h
Type	–	AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max. power (bhp/kW)	–	221/165
Max. torque (Nm)	–	300
Voltage (V)	–	650
HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY	LS 460	LS 600h
Type	–	Nickel metal-hydride (Ni-MH)
Number of cells	–	240 (6 x 40 modules)
Voltage (V)	–	288
TRANSMISSION	LS 460	LS 600h
Type	8AT	E-CVT
Gear ratios	1^st	4.596	–
	2^nd	2.724	–
	3^rd	1.863	–
	4^th	1.464	–
	5^th	1.231	–
	6^th	1.000	–
	7^th	0.824	–
	8^th	0.685	–
	Reverse	2.176	–
2-speed motor reduction gear ratios	–	Low	3.900
–	High	1.900
Differential gear ratio front/rear	-/2.937	3.916/3.916
PERFORMANCE	LS 460	LS 600h	LS 600h L
0-62mph (sec)	5.7	6.1	TBA
50-75mph (sec)	4.9	4.2	TBA
Maximum speed (mph)	155	155	155
FUEL ECONOMY	LS 460	LS 600h	LS 600h L
Urban (mpg)	18.0	26.9	26.9
Extra urban (mpg)	36.2	37.7	37.7
Combined (mpg)	26.4	32.8	32.8
EMISSIONS	LS 460	LS 600h	LS 600h L
CO₂ emissions (g/km)	249	199	199
DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES	LS 460	LS 600h	LS 600h L
Overall length (mm)	5,090	5,090	5,210
Overall width (mm)	1,875	1,875	1,875
Overall height (mm)	1,465 1,455 (F Sport)	1,480 1,470 (F Sport)	1,480
Wheelbase (mm)	2,970	2,970	3,090
Track – front (mm)	1,615 (18in wheel) 1,610 (19in wheel)	1,610	1,610
Track – rear (mm)	1,620 (18in wheel) 1,615 (19in wheel)	1,610	1,610
Overhang – front (mm)	925	925	925
Overhang – rear (mm)	1,195	1,195	1,195
Coefficient of drag (Cd)	0.26	0.27	0.27
Luggage compartment capacity (l)	560 510 (with spare wheel)	420 370 (with spare wheel)	420 370 (with spare wheel)
Fuel tank capacity (l)	84	84	84
WEIGHTS	LS 460	LS 600h	LS 600h L
Kerb weight (kg)	1,840 – 2,080 1,980 – 2,020 (F Sport)	2,230 – 2,390 2,270 – 2,340 (F Sport)	2,320 – 2,410 2,380 – 2,450 (4 seats) 2,370 – 2,440 (4 seats)
Gross vehicle weight (kg)	2,455	2,765	2,750 (4 seats) 2,785 (5 seats)
SUSPENSION	LS 460	LS 600h
Front	Multilink	Multilink
Rear	Multilink	Multilink
Additional features	Air suspension with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)	Air suspension with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS)
BRAKES	LS 460	LS 600h
Type	Ventilated discs	Ventilated discs
Front (diameter x thickness, mm)	357 x 34 380 x 36 (F Sport)	380 x 36
Rear (diameter x thickness, mm)	335 x 22	335 x 22
STEERING	LS 460	LS 600h
Steering gear type	Rack and pinion Electric Power Steering with Variable Gear Ratio Steering	Rack and pinion Electric Power Steering with Variable Gear Ratio Steering
Turns lock-to-lock	2.44 – 3.65 (18in wheel) 2.40 – 3.59 (19in wheel) 2.28 – 3.51 (F Sport)	2.30 – 3.68 2.24 – 3.36 (F Sport)
Minimum turning radius – tyre (m)	5.4 (18in wheel) 5.5 (19in wheel)	5.7 5.8 (F Sport) 5.9 (600h L)

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