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Lexus reveals futuristic hybrid 2+2 sports coupe concept at NAIAS

The Lexus LF-LC 2+2 sports coupe hybrid concept was revealed today with the requisite degree of fanfare by Mark Templin, Group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division, Toyota Motor Sales.
Posted: January 9, 2012 - 3:37PM
Author: Don Bain

“Our job is to provide outstanding cars,” he said. “Cars that elicit an emotional response and tug at the heart. Cars that take the Lexus ownership experience to a whole new level. Cars like this…”

The lights came up on a car that could only be driven by someone like James Bond in an Ian Fleming or Philip K. Dick inspired film – but that’s not true – in a few years a and with a whole lot of money YOU could be driving a car like this.

“You know, I remember the first time I saw this coupe – I was speechless,” Templin added. “This is one HOT lookin’ car and, since it has our next generation hybrid powertrain, it’ll push our hybrid leadership stake even deeper into the ground!”

The concept car has a glass roof including a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass bond. Overall, the glass top design enhances visibility while reinforcing the car’s sleek lines.

The rear deck is shaped to echo the spindle grille theme from the front of the vehicle. The tail lamps are reportedly inspired by the look of a jet afterburner at take-off, using inner lighting to create a sense of depth. Even the rear end includes fog lamps, repeating the fading dot matrix pattern of the forward fog lamps. The vehicle features impressive quadruple exhausts.

The interior of the LF-LC concept vehicle uses soft textures and smooth geometric shapes to create a driver-focused cockpit both roomy and secure. The driver is ensconced in deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console helping focus the driver on the road and the controls.

Based on Lexus’ commitment to creating an intuitive driving experience, 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.

Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display with inputs from a touch-screen in the center console. This controls the audio system, climate and navigation. A pop-up touch-screen keyboard enables more complex entries. Similar touch-screens on each door operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings.
In front of the driver, multi-level meters layer analog and LCD technologies. The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the background for the Eco meter. The middle layer is the tachometer mechanical center ring. The topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.

Surfaces throughout the cabin are a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents. The seats are lightweight and race-inspired in front. The racing steering wheel is a lightweight design with articulated controls.

The LF-LC concept is a front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe featuring the Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, providing both high performance and fuel efficiency.

“This thought-provoking design exercise is a stunning expression of creativity,” he said “Combined with a next-generation hybrid powertrain, this concept promises a rewarding driving experience that is also kinder to the environment.”
Now isn’t that what a holistic detective would drive?