Lexus LF-CC / RC350 & RC-F

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[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3TS0bdGfz8"]VIDEO OF THE NEW LF-CC 'LEXUS FUTURE CONCEPT COUPE' - YouTube[/ame]

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46nmAKmEyo4"]LEXUS LF-CC Designer Interview - YouTube[/ame]

WORLD PREMIERE OF THE LEXUS LF-CC CONCEPT CAR AT THE 2012 PARIS MOTOR SHOW

- LF-CC displays the latest evolution of the L-finesse design language and signature spindle grille, to be reflected in future Lexus D-Segment vehicles
- Announces the market launch of a mid-size coupe in the near future
- Features a new 2.5 litre full hybrid powertrain with class-leading CO2 emissions, which will be introduced soon in the Lexus model range

Brussels, Belgium - Following the unveiling of Lexus' award-winning hybrid 2+2 sports coupe concept, the LF-LC at the 2012 Detroit Motor Show and its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show, a new, mid-sized coupe concept, the LF-CC makes its World Premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

The more compact, rear-wheel drive, full hybrid LF-CC already integrates various design cues from the LF-LC; a first illustration of how concept cars are truly influencing future Lexus models and, in this instance, future D-Segment derivatives.

Announcing the launch of a premium mid-sized coupe in the more accessible D-segment in the near future, the LF-CC reinforces Lexus' commitment to create more engaging, inspirational vehicles through attractive design, a superior driving experience and advanced technologies.

EXTERIOR DESIGN
The LF-CC showcases the latest evolution of the company's unique L-finesse design language, with the boldest yet interpretation of the signature Lexus 'spindle' grille. Framed by the bonnet lip, deep lower spoiler and powerfully projecting front fender tips, the grille mesh is encased in a deep, metal-finish surround and takes on a pronounced, 3D form.

A unique, 3 LED-projector headlamp design is housed in the narrow gap between the lower and upper fender surfaces, without a conventional, one-piece cover. Independent Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are fully integrated into the upper bumper surface to complete this unique new design.
The broad lower fenders are aerodynamically sculpted to manage the flow of air to the engine bay and front brakes, whilst reinforcing the powerful, dynamic road presence of the new Lexus signature frontal design.

In profile, the powerful convex curve of the bonnet flows seamlessly through a steeply raked windscreen into a roofline which deliberately peaks towards the rear of the cabin to emphasise the traction available from the vehicle's rear-wheel drive powertrain.

The bodywork is stretched tight between the front and rear fenders, and the rear fender is less pronounced than that of the front, reinforcing the concentration of vehicle weight over the driven wheels for maximum traction.

Further developing a design form initiated on the LF-LC concept and the high-performance LFA, the sharply sculpted form of an airflow regulating fin flows from underneath the side of the car and upwards through the rear wheel arch. This aerodynamic detail is designed to increase downforce over the driven wheels, further improving traction.

The airflow regulating fin merges with the falling roofline in a pronounced rear spoiler integrated within the boot lid, seamlessly fusing design and aerodynamic elements to give the vehicle its distinctive, coupe proportions.

To the rear, the full width bumper flows into the rear wheel arches to emphasise the LF-CC's broad, powerful stance. Lexus-characteristic L-shaped combination lamps feature a layered, strongly three-dimensional design, and the lower, concave bumper section incorporates a full width spoiler to further enhance rear-wheel drive traction. The rear stop lamp is nicely integrated into the shark antenna.

The LF-CC is finished in a new, 'Fluid Titanium' exterior colour, a metallic finish with exceptionally high brilliance which combines sharp, bright highlighting with dark shaded surfaces to reinforce the powerful forms of the bodywork's sculpted surfaces.

INTERIOR DESIGN
The LF-CC's interior hints at the progressive luxury of a future Lexus model cabin layout, and represents a further development of the company's HMI (Human Machine Interface) design philosophy.

The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper, Display Zone, with a multi-display screen located at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing, and a lower, Operation Zone, which allows access to the uniquely designed shift lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control.
This clear division of zones creates a unique fusion of an airy, spacious cabin and a sporting cockpit which places the emphasis on a snug, highly focused driving environment. All functional driving components are consolidated in the driver's seat surroundings, combining outstanding ergonomics with advanced HMI technologies.

The driver benefits from a low, highly focused driving position with a sporting, wide grip steering wheel, optimum pedal placement and high-visibility instrument dials. The touch tracer display for remote system control is located directly behind the shift lever for maximum comfort and ease of operation.

Coordinating with the 'Fluid Titanium' exterior colour, the seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood are trimmed in a warm, elegant amber leather finish. The extensive use of metallic finishes and soft touch materials throughout reinforces the premium quality of the environment. The contrast between the exterior and interior colour schemes gives the car an elegant yet simultaneously sporting image.

ALL-NEW 2.5 LITRE FULL HYBRID POWERTRAIN
Representing a new Lexus powertrain for future production, the LF-CC is equipped with an all-new, highly efficient, 2.5 litre full hybrid powertrain delivering a combination of the engaging performance appropriate to a sporting, D-segment coupe and low CO2 emissions, targeted below 100 g/km. This powertrain will achieve class-leading energy efficiency, with more than 2 hp produced per gram of CO2.

This Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain features an all-new, ultra-smooth running, 2.5 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine mated to a compact, high-output, water-cooled permanent magnet electric motor.

In addition to the petrol engine and electric motor, the LF-CC hybrid drive system further comprises a generator, a high-performance 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, the all-new 2.5 litre, DOHC, 4-cylinder petrol engine benefits from several technical improvements. It adopts the Atkinson cycle and D-4S direct injection technology to optimise both the power and fuel-efficiency benefits of Lexus Hybrid Drive.
Lexus will introduce this new hybrid powertrain into its model range in the near future.

LEXUS AT THE 2012 PARIS MOTOR SHOW
Besides the world premiere of the new LF-CC, Lexus will also display the all-new LS 600h F SPORT in Western European premiere. The new LS flagship sedan reflects the bolder Lexus exterior and interior design direction, and brings enhanced driving dynamics, world-leading refinement, luxury and innovative advanced technology.

Introduced by Paul Van der Burgh, Director Lexus Europe, the Lexus Press Conference will be held at 8.45 AM CET on September 27 (hall 4, stand 120).

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Paris, France - Good morning and welcome to Lexus!

That video clip reminds us of the pioneering role that Lexus LS has played in the automobile industry. The fourth generation LS continues to set new standards, bringing several technical innovations and enhanced features.

Let me pick out just a few highlights.

The first is the new, bolder design symbolised by a powerful execution of the Lexus signature spindle grille and all-LED exterior lighting.

The interior design is a tribute to Lexus renowned craftsmanship combined with state-of-the art technologies, and includes an advanced illumination system with dynamic LED instrument panel lighting.

The LS also introduces the world’s first multi-zone automatic climate control system. This “Climate Concierge” as we call it, manages the cabin air-conditioning the front and rear temperature and the steering wheel heater in a smart and integrated way.

We also introduced the most advanced pre-collision active safety system of any car on the road today setting a new standard for the industry.

The driving dynamics have also evolved matching the expectations of European drivers. We’ve improved body rigidity and aerodynamics for a more engaging ride and added our first-ever LS F-SPORT for an even more dynamic performance.

The LS powertrains are more efficient emitting less CO2 while maintaining or even increasing power. With 445 DIN hp the LS 600h is the world’s most powerful full hybrid V8.

The LS is our fifth product launch this year following the new GS, ES, RX and LX. We are completely revamping the Lexus line-up with bolder design improved driving dynamics and of course advanced technologies.

Naturally, Lexus Hybrid Drive continues to be our defining technology.

In Europe, the majority of our sales are full hybrids helping Lexus to achieve fleet average CO2 emissions of just 120g/km in 2011 that is the lowest in the premium market by a comfortable margin.

European customers clearly value this direction New GS sales this year are already 4 times higher than the whole of 2011 And new RX sales have helped to bring our SUV volumes back to the record 2007 levels.

Combined with the continued success of CT 200h this is a strong foundation for further growth of Lexus in Europe.

We recently announced the formation of Lexus International an autonomous division with dedicated resources to help speed up the transformation of the Lexus brand through the introduction of even more appealing models.

This new organisation is already producing results!

Earlier this year, everybody fell in love with the LF-LC, a high-end sports coupe concept which demonstrated how emotional and inspirational Lexus design can be.

Today, we are pleased to reveal the LF-CC a mid-size coupe concept previewing future Lexus vehicles in the D-premium segment.

Now, I’d like to invite Mr Kiyotaka Ise, President of Lexus International, and Mr Yo Hiruta, General Manager of Lexus Design, to reveal this exciting new product.

Ladies and gentlemen, here’s the Lexus LF-CC.

-REVEAL SEQUENCE-

Thank you Ise-san for another amazing new concept!

The LF-CC shows a further evolution of our Lexus design language in a realistic yet innovative way.

At the front, you see the boldest-yet interpretation of our spindle grille. The headlamp design features unique triple LED-projectors with daytime running lights integrated into the upper bumper to complete a highly distinctive front appearance.

Looking at LF-CC side on, the sleek profile conveys superior aerodynamic performance while also highlighting traction, agility and dynamic road presence.

At the rear, the full-width bumper flows into the rear wheel arches, emphasising LF-CC’s broad, powerful stance.

Inside the cabin, we created a highly-focused environment featuring innovative ways for the driver to interact with the vehicle for instance using touch displays for remote control operations.

The LF-CC is equipped with our full hybrid powertrain, featuring a brand new 4 cylinder, 2.5 litre petrol engine with D4-S injection technology.

Combining dynamic performance with low emissions this powertrain will achieve class-leading energy efficiency, with more than 2 hp produced per gram of CO2. On the LF-CC this means CO2 emissions below 100g/km that’s lower than any petrol or diesel engine of comparable output.

This engine will be introduced very soon in the Lexus line-up.

The design direction inspired by LF-CC will be applied to future Lexus vehicles in the D-premium segment and you won’t have to wait very long before seeing the first production vehicle.

Moreover, we can also confirm that Lexus is developing a rear-wheel-drive mid-size coupe, to be launched in the near future.

Lexus aims to become an inspirational and exciting global premium brand and we see a bold future in Europe.

Thanks for joining us today we’d be delighted to see you again during the press days here in Paris to answer your questions and hear your opinions.

Thank you.

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Following the warm reception for Lexus’ LF-LC 2+2 hybrid sport coupe concept, launched at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Lexus is showing its LF-CC mid-sized coupe concept at the Paris Auto Show.

Power for the LF-CC comes from a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to a water-cooled electric motor. The full-hybrid drivetrain is meant to deliver an optimum blend of performance and fuel economy, though Lexus isn’t publishing any specifics just yet.

In keeping with the family theme, the LF-CC shares numerous design cues with the LF-LC, including a dramatic interpretation of the now-familiar Lexus spindle grille. In the LF-CC, the grille mesh is offset by a metallic surround, giving it more of a three-dimensional effect.

Headlights feature a unique three-LED projector design, while separate daytime running lights are integrated into the upper bumper. Lower front fenders, along with the front fascia, are shaped to increase airflow (as well as giving the LF-CC its distinctive appearance).

From the side, the LF-CC presents a steeply-raked windshield and a roof that crests towards the rear of the car, in order to emphasize the LF-CC’s rear-drive layout. In the rear, the LF-CC ‘s wide bumper is meant to further accentuate the car’s athletic stance.

Inside, the cabin is meant to represent the “progressive luxury” of future Lexus models, with a dashboard that’s divided into a “Display Zone” and an “Operation Zone.” Enhancing the sporty nature of the car, the driver sits low in the cockpit and benefits from a sport steering wheel and optimized pedal placement.

Not only does the LF-CC gives us an indication of the design direction for the next Lexus IS, word is that the stylish hybrid coupe has already been approved for production.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...aris-auto-show

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Ever since the Lexus LF-CC was announced, there’s been confusion about what production model it will eventually transform into — more to the point, is it the next-generation IS or a GS coupe?

The uncertainty started with the original press release, which referred to the concept as a mid-size coupe (GS-size), only to suggest it will also be part of the European D-premium segment (IS-size).


Normally, this mystery could be solved by consulting the vehicle dimensions — today, the first-known specifications of the LF-CC were published on the Lexus Global website:



Most of these numbers match closely with the current-generation IS (the LF-CC is 70mm/2.7″ longer, but has an identical wheelbase), except for one difference — the LF-CC width is exactly the same as the current fourth-generation GS. Still, this discrepancy can be explained — the previous GS & current IS shared the same width, so it makes sense that the new IS would mirror the increase of the new GS.

This comparison-by-number backs up the theory that the LF-CC is a precursor to a next-generation IS coupe — however, during today’s introduction of the concept at the Paris Motor Show, Lexus Europe director Paul Van der Burgh used some curious phrasing:

The design direction inspired by LF-CC will be applied to future Lexus vehicles in the D-premium segment and you won’t have to wait very long before seeing the first production vehicle.

Moreover, we can also confirm that Lexus is developing a rear-wheel-drive mid-size coupe, to be launched in the near future.

In the first part of the quote, Van der Burgh stresses that the LF-CC styling will be applied to a D-premium segment vehicle — obviously the IS — but makes no mention that this vehicle will be offered as a coupe. Following this up, he then says that Lexus is developing a RWD mid-size coupe that will be launched “in the near future”, suggesting that there’s also a GS-sized coupe in the pipeline.

Take these two statements together, and the whole question changes — instead of wondering if the LF-CC is the next-generation IS or a GS coupe, what if it was both at the same time?

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2012/09/2...pe/#more-11801

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According to a CarAdvice interview with the president of Lexus International, Kiyotaka Ise, the LF-CC concept that debuted last week at the Paris Motor Show may be a preview of the next-generation IS and a brand new separate coupe model:

Lexus used the 2012 Paris motor show to unveil its LF-CC concept that previews the company’s next-generation IS.

Ise-san, however, suggested the production version of the 3-Series coupe rival may adopt a different badge to the IS sedan.

“We’re not saying this is an IS coupe,” he said, “but it is a D-segment [3 Series class] car.”

Ise-san said the new IS sedan and the spin-off two-door will challenge the BMW 3 Series for driver enjoyment.

This would definitely add weight to the theory that the LF-CC is an composite of two distinct models — in fact, mentioning BMW as a main competitor may foreshadow Lexus’s strategy.


For the first time ever, BMW will be separating their entry-level model into two separate designations — the sedan will remain a 3-series, while the coupe & convertible will become the all-new 4-series. These newly-divided models from BMW will have one other key difference beside the number of doors* — the 4-series will be longer, placing it between the 3-series and 5-series sedans in length.

While it’s just pure guesswork on my part, it’s possible that Lexus may do something similar by making this new coupe bigger than an IS but smaller than the GS — this would have the potential of appealing to both IS & GS buyers looking for a coupe, and it opens the door for a future coupe to sit between the GS & LS.

But beyond all the speculation on size, the name itself makes for a good guessing game — what do you think this new model be called?

(* I purposely ignored the BMW 4-series four-door gran coupe, which just confuses everything.)

http://lexusenthusiast.com/2012/10/0...el/#more-11855

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At the recent 2012 Paris Motor Show, Lexus unveiled its LF-CC Concept which lead many to conclude that it was the Japanese automaker’s future IS Coupe model.

It appears, however, that the hybrid coupe won’t be making its production appearance for at last another one to two years, according to Kiyotaka Ise, president of Lexus International. But even more surprising is that Ise confirmed that what we’re looking at with the LF-CC Concept is not an IS coupe, despite it being a similar size to the IS.

There has been a good deal of confusion around the LF-CC Concept as Lexus confirmed it previewed an upcoming D-segment coupe. While the D-segment is the mid-size category for vehicles like the GS in North America, technically, the IS is classified as a D-segment car in Europe.

Now it appears as though Lexus intends to brand an IS-sized coupe as an entirely new model, using new nomenclature.

If there is one thing we can count on it’s that the next-generation Lexus IS will focus on hybrid power. Ise believes that the Japanese automaker is superior in technology, volume, and quality.

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2...-is-coupe.html

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JAPAN is readying a potential rival to the BMW M3.

Lexus is doing the work and it's reflected in the great looking LF-CC concept car at the Paris motor show.

The new coupe is clearly a pointer to next year's replacement for the compact IS four-door sedan but, even more, the pumped-up look and a high-performance hybrid power pack point to a bigger target.

"This is the concept for the coupe that we want to launch as soon as possible. In the near future. One or two years," the president of Lexus International, Kiyotaka Ise, confirms to Carsguide at the Paris motor show.
He laughs when the talk turns to a Lexus rival to the M3.
But there is no denial.

"Steadily I think the driving performance is going up. In terms of driving performance, people are looking for and wanting a more aggressive driving performance," he says.

And what about the size and design future of the IS, as reflected in the LF-CC?

"This is a similar size type to an IS," Ise admits. "We're not really in a position to say anything but we're not denying it. It's not an IS coupe, but I think it will meet your expectation."

Earlier this year, Carsguide was told of a plan for TMG, which produced Toyota's latest hybrid Le Mans racer, to expand its German base into a facility to rival Mercedes AMG and BMW M. The announcement was made by the head of TMG, Yoshiaki Kinoshita.

But Ise denies any plan and is defiant on Kinoshita's announcement.
"I don't care what he says. We don't have any plans to have TMG be like AMG."

Even so, he says the technology in the Lexus V10-powered supercar, the LF-A, is trickling down through the range and the company is looking to boost its following with luxury buyers.

"For our competitors - Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi - driving performance is very important. We want to have an emotional driving connection," he says.
"I think when the car reaches the certain level, it's not whether you win or lose. It's the preference. I think it's more a matter of taste for the driver. But I think we've reached the top."

In the case of the upcoming IS, the focus is switching to hybrid power. The LF-CC concept is fitted with a car that combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with electric power, aiming for CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km.

But it's still a performance pack and the engine combines an Atkinson combustion cycle with direct fuel injection. The concept is also rear-wheel drive.

"I think it's actually an advantage for us," says Ise, who also believes Toyota still leads on hybrids. "In technology, volume and quality we are superior.

http://www.news.com.au/news/lexus-hy...#ixzz28RO64vGw

[Calais]

went to the australian motor show tonight these are the only 2 photos that are half decent(phone pics)

[DIM]

Lexus Trademarks RC F for High-Performance Coupe?

Exciting news today — in a move that suggests a new high-performance coupe is in the works, Lexus has trademarked RC F in the USA & Europe.

The model designation RC was first discovered last November, when Lexus reserved RC 350 with the Australian Patent Office.

At the time, the speculation was that the RC would be a new mid-size coupe partially based on the LF-CC concept, and the filing of this new RC F trademark adds weight to the theory, as it fits the pattern established with current IS & IS F.

It’s still the early days, but the idea of a coupe built with the same performance focus as the current IS F feels like a match made in heaven and a perfect compliment to the Lexus lineup. Looking forward to learning more.

(For completion’s sake, Lexus RC F was filed under United States Patent & Trademark Office #85770072 and European Union #011314226.)

[chulooz]

Remote Control Lexus woohoo!

[DarkSunrise]

Wonder if this could be the sports coupe that Toyota will be working on with BMW.

[Levi]

Originally Posted by DarkSunrise

Wonder if this could be the sports coupe that Toyota will be working on with BMW.

No. That is just an IS/-F Coupé. The sports coupé BMW and Toyota might be working at could be the Supra, and even that is not sure.

[DarkSunrise]

Originally Posted by Levi

No. That is just an IS/-F Coupé. The sports coupé BMW and Toyota might be working at could be the Supra, and even that is not sure.

Ah ok, makes sense.