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TOKYO, JAPAN (October 23, 2019) – In its continued efforts to deliver innovative and amazing experiences, Lexus unveiled its “Lexus Electrified" vision for an upcoming generation of electrified vehicles. Headlining this moment was the debut of the Lexus LF-30 Electrified Concept, which made its world premiere at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019.

Since the brand’s creation in 1989, Lexus has endeavored to deliver to its customers innovative and amazing product and brand experiences that stimulate the five senses. Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has led the world as a pioneer in electrification technologies such as the two-stage reduction gear and the multi-stage hybrid system which leverage technology to offer excellent performance and the direct driving sensation characteristic of Lexus Hybrid vehicles.

The “Lexus Electrified” vision unveiled today targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment -- even as mobility within our society continues to change with autonomous driving and vehicle electrification.

Evoking the original fun of driving, Lexus is developing new advanced posture control and other electrification technologies to further evolve driving pleasure, and to fundamentally transform the essence of luxury vehicles of the future. Towards this end, Lexus is drawing on the lessons learned developing the core technologies found in Lexus’ popular range of gasoline-electric hybrids, including battery management, power control modules, and electric motors. In particular, the technology of Lexus Electrified enables integrated control of powertrain, steering, suspension, and brakes, realizing the ultimate potential of the motor control technology cultivated in HV. With this technology, we can control the driving force to provide ideal vehicle posture according to each driving situation. Lexus endeavors to continue providing enjoyable and safer driving vehicles.

To advance this goal, Lexus plans to unveil its first BEV in November 2019 – broadening our response to the needs of various regions around the world, including the development of HEVs, PHEVs, BEVs, and FCEVs. Moving forward after that, Lexus plans to expand its electrified vehicle lineup - we will launch our first Lexus PHEV and a new dedicated BEV platform early in the coming decade. By 2025, Lexus will have available electrified versions of all Lexus vehicle models, and we are aiming for the sales of electrified vehicle models to outpace those of conventional internal combustion engine vehicle models.

Lexus LF-30 Electrified highlights

‘LF-30 Electrified’ new concept embodies the vision of Lexus’ electrification

The LF-30 Electrified concept vehicle embodies the “Lexus Electrified” vision. For its exterior styling the advanced image expected of a BEV has been channeled into artistic qualities that result in a futuristic form, and an interior that assertively weaves in autonomous driving and other new technologies aims to manifest Lexus’ distinctive worldview. Performance is rooted in Lexus Electrified components, adding Lexus’ latest technology to our leadership in development of HEV systems. Precise electric motor control enables instantaneous adjustments to posture not possible with conventional vehicles. Furthermore, the LF-30 Electrified employs numerous advanced technologies with a look ahead to the year 2030- such as a new-concept cockpit based on a human-centered design philosophy and a steer-by-wire system.

Futuristic exterior foreshadows the Lexus Electrified vehicles towards 2030

In taking up the challenge of expressing a new design that could only be achieved with a BEV powered by in-wheel electric motors, Lexus visually articulated the LF-30 Electrified’s unique energy flow. The vehicle form is meant to visually express the energy created by the wheels set at the corners of the vehicle body streaming toward the vehicle cabin and past the driver to directly flow onto the road surface.

Taking advantage of a hoodless vehicle shape made possible by being a BEV, Lexus’ signature “spindle” form has been further evolved to span the entire vehicle architecture. The window glass, which continually stretches from the front to rear, the muscular fenders, and the wing-shaped headlights form the contours of the Lexus iconic spindle. The shape of the body is fashioned with an elegantly flowing front which transitions into a linear and sharp rear. In addition to the wing-shaped headlights, the sharpness of the rear lights and side air intakes combine to achieve both excellent aerodynamics and cooling performance, resulting in styling fused with function.

The opacity of the side windows can be freely adjusted, providing occupants with expansive views of the surrounding scenery and a high level of privacy at night and in other situations. The color of the front face of the vehicle and luminescence patterns help identify from the outside whether the vehicle is being operated in its normal mode or in its autonomous driving mode, reflecting Lexus’ pursuit of both a high level of styling and functionality. The exterior color ‘voltaic sky’ employs a leading-edge metal-infused coating to achieve a unique quality tinted by a touch of blue-green.

Innovative, interior that leverages autonomous driving technologies, a newly designed cockpit, and more

To manifest in a higher dimension Lexus’ fundamental human-centered philosophy, the cockpit was designed based on the new Lexus concept of “Tazuna”. Inspired by how a single rein can be used to achieve mutual understanding between horse and rider, the steering controller-mounted switches and head-up display have been coordinated to a high degree, creating a space that enables the driver to focus on driving while controlling various functions, such as the navigation and audio system and driving-mode selection, without having to shift one’s vision or operate manual switches. As an indication of the future image of a Tazuna cockpit, the LF-30 Electrified employs next-generation interfaces, such as gesture control and enhanced presentation of vehicle information through AR (augmented reality). The resulting interior is one that provides comfort and convenience for both driver and passengers.

With the layout of the front passenger seat echoing that of a first-class seat on an airliner, the interior is one in which a sense of openness and a sense of envelopment coexist. All switches and other controls being comfortably within reach and a gesture-control large-screen display for the passenger seat add to the achievement of interior comfort and convenience.

The rear seats use artificial muscle technology to mold to their occupant, and can support various modes such as reclining, relaxation, and alert functions. A Mark Levinson® audio system creates a next-generation listening environment, in which minute speaker control establishes ideal acoustic spaces for music listening pleasure for the driver and each passenger, and speakers built into the headrests not only provide an optimal audio environment but also have a noise-cancelling feature that contributes to enhanced quietness.

A glass roof above the rear seats features voice control and a gesture controlled “SkyGate” display window that uses AR to display various types of information, such as a realistic star-filled sky, user-favorite videos, and even navigation.

In addition to its unique design, the interior also indicates the direction of next-generation luxury by using sustainable materials to reduce environmental burden. Yakisugi (charred cedar), a traditional Japanese material, is used in the floor and steering controller while recycled metal was processed into fibers for use in creating the pleated door trim. This approach expresses Lexus’ distinctiveness and innovative spirit.

With in-wheel electric motors, steering by wire, and Lexus Advanced Posture Control, the LF-30 can offer a dynamic experience unlike any currently available

To achieve a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment, the LF-30 employs numerous state-of-the-art technologies even beyond advanced posture control. In-wheel electric motors for each of the vehicle’s four wheels and low positioning of the battery enable better handling of inertia and high-level driving performance. Autonomous driving technologies and drone support vehicle technologies look ahead to the year 2030 and the widely expanded value that vehicles can offer.

Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology regulates the drive-power output from high-torque electric motors to adjust vehicle posture in tune with human sensibilities. Completely independent control of front and rear drive wheels allows appropriate provision of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive, depending on the driving situation. Compact and lightweight drive-power units expand freedom in vehicle packaging and are used to enable the driver to enjoy ideal driving, regardless of the road surface or driving conditions.

Positioning Lexus Advanced Posture Control technology as a core element of the ‘Lexus Electrified’ vision, Lexus intends to widely apply this technology throughout its lineup of electrified vehicles.

The steer-by-wire system eliminates a mechanical connection to allow more flexible turning control depending on driving conditions, and a more precise steering feel aligned with the driver’s intention. It also contributes to a greater sense of openness by allowing the steering controller can be shifted forward and out of the way during autonomous driving.

As a next-generation BEV, LF-30 uses wireless charging technology to simplify daily charging, and AI-based energy management to enable optimal distribution of electric power to both the vehicle and the home, and charging control coordinated with the user’s daily schedule.

Onboard AI distinguishes the voices of vehicle occupants, and uses personalized information stored on the driver’s control key to serve as a partner. It facilitates the adjustment of elements of the interior environment, such as air temperature and audio, and the setting of navigation routes and destinations, while also making proposals for activities after arrival. It also understands driver’s preferences and helps them control the suspension and powertrain settings in real-time according to the driving scene.

The LF-30 Electrified also carries the ‘Lexus Airporter’ drone-technology support vehicle. Using autonomous control, the Lexus Airporter is capable of such tasks as independently transporting baggage from a household doorstep to the vehicle’s luggage area.

Based on the latest autonomous driving technology concept of ‘Lexus Teammate’, the LF-30 Electrified features advanced driving support functions in the form of a Chauffeur mode and a Guardian mode. Occupants can enjoy both comfort and peace of mind during autonomous driving with advanced posture control technology being employed. Furthermore, a self-parking function and a front-door pickup function in which the LF-30 Electrified autonomously moves from driveway to doorstep provide an especially high level of convenience.

기아차는 이번 뉴욕모터쇼에서 ‘하바니로(HabaNiro)’ 콘셉트카를 세계 최초로 선보였다. 

‘하바니로’는 트윈 전기 모터가 탑재된 EV 크로스오버 콘셉트카로, 1회 충전시 300마일(약 482km) 이상 주행이 가능하다. 

또한 e-4WD 시스템 및 다양한 편의사양이 적용돼 도심 주행에 최적화된 기존 니로 EV의 장점을 계승하는 한편 오프로드 주행까지 거뜬히 수행해내는 전천후 크로스오버 차량으로 설계된 것이 특징이다. 

‘하바니로’의 전면부는 바깥쪽으로 뻗어나가는 듯한 V자 형태의 주간주행등이 가장 눈에 띄며, 블랙 컬러의 몰딩이 범퍼 하단부에서부터 측면으로 이어지도록 디자인돼 역동적인 느낌을 강조하고 있다. 

또 주간주행등을 연결하는 LED 라인이 수평으로 길게 뻗어 있으며, 전면 스키드 플레이트가 상단부까지 확장되어 보다 단단하고 안정적인 디자인을 완성했다. 

측면부를 살펴보면 EV 전용 섀시 적용을 통해 20인치의 큰 휠이 탑재됐으며 짧은 오버행 및 긴 휠베이스를 통해 스포티한 느낌을 강조했다. 

그뿐만 아니라, C필러가 밝은 레드 컬러로 처리되어 ‘하바니로’라는 이름에 걸맞은 강렬한 이미지를 더해준다. 

후면부는 아래쪽에 새틴 메탈의 스키드 플레이트가 단단하게 자리 잡고 있으며 그 위로 수직 형태의 테일 램프가 배치돼 보다 견고한 디자인을 완성했다. 

‘하바니로’는 곳곳에 미래지향적인 디자인을 구현한 것이 특징이기도 하다. 

우선 180° 후측방 모니터를 적용함으로써 사이드 미러를 완전히 제거해 매끄럽고 유려한 디자인을 강조했다. 

또한 플러시 도어 핸들및 버터플라이 윙 도어를 적용해 보다 미래지향적인 디자인을 완성했다. 

‘하바니로’의 내부 인테리어는 라바 레드(Lava Red) 컬러가 적용돼 핫한 이미지를 강조했으며 앰비언트 라이트가 기하학적 무늬의 바닥을 통해 실내 전체로 은은하게 퍼져 편안하고 신비로운 분위기를 연출했다. 

‘하바니로’에는 생체 인식 기술을 통해 승객의 건강 및 감정 상태를 실시간으로 모니터링하는 ‘실시간 감정반응 차량제어(R.E.A.D) 시스템’이 적용됐다. 

2019 CES에서 첫 선을 보인 바 있는 R.E.A.D. 시스템은 운전자의 생체 신호를 자동차가 인식해 차량 내의 오감 요소를 통합 제어함으로써 실시간으로 운전자의 감정과 상황에 맞게 차량의 실내 공간을 최적화하는 기술이다. 

이를 통해 운전자는 생체 정보만으로도 시동을 걸 수 있을 뿐만 아니라, 음악과 온도, 조명과 진동, 그리고 향기 등 자신의 감정 상태에 최적화된 실내 환경을 제공받을 수 있다. 

커트 카할(Kurt Kahl) 기아 미국디자인센터 시니어 디자인 매니저는 “‘하바니로’ 콘셉트카는 도심 주행은 물론, 오프로드에서도 충분히 능력을 발휘할 수 있도록 설계된 차량”이라며 “우리는 어느 상황에도 어울리는 이 차를 ‘에브리카(Every car)’라고 부르고 싶다”고 말했다. 

Acura returns to Monterey Car Week, one of the world's top gatherings of automotive and motorsports enthusiasts, to debut the Type S Concept. Following its world premiere at a private Acura reception Thursday, August 15, the Acura Type S Concept will publicly debut on Friday, August 16 at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering. It will then be showcased at the historic Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Concept Lawn on Sunday, August 18.

Representing a fundamental step toward fulfilling Acura's return to Precision Crafted Performance, which started with the debut of the second-generation NSX, the Type S Concept sets the stage for re-introducing Type S performance variants to the Acura line-up after a decade hiatus, and will heavily influence the character of the upcoming, second-generation TLX Type S.

The Acura design team set out to express the essence of Precision Crafted Performance through stance and proportion, crafting a silhouette that is powerful and expressive, yet clean and cohesive. Building on the foundational beauty and style of the Acura Precision Concept, the Type S Concept's powerful form is characterized by a wide track and low stance, with an expansive hood that stretches forward from the A-pillars.

"The return of Type S is instrumental in our mission to return Acura to its performance roots," said Jon Ikeda, Vice President and Acura Brand Officer. "From bringing back the NSX to winning at the highest level of North American sports car racing and ushering-in a new generation starting with the RDX, we are revitalizing Acura on the foundation of our original and authentic brand values, piece by piece."

Performance at the Core
"We've been dreaming about a new performance-focused Acura concept car since the Precision Concept debuted," said Dave Marek, Acura's Executive Creative Director. "The Type S Concept speaks unambiguously to performance and to the essence of Acura design."   

The Type S Concept showcases new elements of Acura design including next-generation, four-lamp Jewel Eye® LED headlights, an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, and "Chicane" daytime running lights and taillights, both drawing inspiration from the Acura ARX-05 Daytona Prototype race car.

Refined Style Meets Raw Emotion
Building off its powerful stance, the Type S Concept's front fascia reflects both form and function. Large center and side intakes are capable of supplying required airflow to a high-performance engine and brake package, with fascia detailing evolved from the NSX and Acura Precision Concept. The headlights are underscored, literally, by translucent white "Chicane" LEDs that serve double duty as running lights and turn signals.

The front fascia transitions to a side profile that communicates both power and elegance. Sheer surfaces and continually shifting angles are balanced by sharp, intersecting lines that create the impression that every surface is changing shape as it flows front to rear. Sheer side surfaces gradually open-up to muscular rear wheel arches, emphasizing the concept's wide track.

A sharp and distinctive tail features an upswept decklid with a sharply creased centerline (drawn from the hood) and integrated forged carbon spoiler. "Chicane" LED taillights, a large rear diffuser and quad chrome exhaust outlets complete the look.

In addition to the rear decklid spoiler, forged carbon – created by bonding layers of carbon on top of one another to exceed the strength of traditional interwoven carbon – is applied to the front and rear splitters, side sills, rear decklid spoiler and multi-spoke 21-inch wheels.

A "square" 285-series summer tire setup ensures high levels of grip in the most dynamic of driving situations. All four corners feature drilled Brembo™ high-performance brakes with four-piston calipers, providing ample stopping power and an aggressive appearance.

The Concept's bespoke "Double Apex Blue Pearl" paint reflects a liquid and electric hue that pays homage to blue Type S heritage models, including the acclaimed 2007-2008 TL Type S. "Double Apex Blue Pearl" employs Nano pigments and a color-infused clear coat that impart a sense of fluidity and motion, and enhance the paint's luster and brilliance.

The Acura Type S Concept was conceived by the Acura Design Studio in California, led by executive creative director, Dave Marek, and chief designer, Ben Davidson and will be showcased throughout Monterey Car Week. After its private debut at an Acura hosted event Aug. 15, it will make its public debut at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering on Aug. 16, with a press conference scheduled for 9:30 a.m. The Type S Concept will also be on display at the historic Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on Aug. 18.