*Lexus’s 21st century supercar delivers extreme, race-bred performance, with advanced technologies and absolute exclusivity

*Powered by mid-front mounted 4.8-litre V10 engine with 9,000rpm red line

*Rear wheels driven through bespoke, rear-mounted six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG)

*Maximum power 552bhp, maximum torque 480Nm

*Nought to 62mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds, top speed 202mph

*Extensive use of advanced materials, including Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) construction and Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brakes

*Production limited to 500 examples

*UK launch price €368,000 (approximately £336,000)

INTRODUCTION

The new LFA marks an important moment in both the history of Lexus and the development of the supercar. A true “clean-sheet” design, the LFA was created by a small, passionate and dedicated team of engineers whose achievement has been to push the boundaries of technologies materials and engineering at every stage to produce a car like no other to have carried the Lexus badge.

Constructed using advanced carbon fibre technology, the rear-wheel drive LFA is powered by a bespoke, high-revving 552bhp 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine, matched to a rear-mounted six-speed sequential automatic transmission, giving 200mph-plus performance.

In the words of Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi: “The LFA is a thoroughbred supercar, a machine engineered to achieve a single goal – to deliver a supreme driving experience. Over the past decade we have pushed every boundary in pursuit of this goal and I believe we have created the most driver-orientated car we possibly could.”

CARBON FIBRE CONSTRUCTION

Keeping the car’s weight to an absolute minimum was one of the defining elements in the development of the LFA and this led to the decision to switch from using aluminium for the car’s construction to advanced Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) for the chassis and bodywork.

Moreover, Lexus decided the CFRP structure should be built in-house rather than by a third-party supplier. In doing so, it drew on Toyota Motor Corporation’s heritage in textile weaving technology to push the boundaries of its technical abilities, developing new carbon fibre looms and a laser system for monitoring the integrity of the material.

At four times the strength of aluminium, CFRP gives the LFA an exceptionally stiff and strong structure, and also delivers major weight advantages, saving around 100kg on an equivalent aluminium body. CFRP accounts for 65 per cent of the body-in-white, with aluminium alloy used for the remaining 35 per cent.

Unlike the few other vehicles on the market that use CFRP construction, the LFA uses the same advanced resin technology favoured by cutting-edge aerospace programmes for its unmatched weight and strength properties.

ENGINE

The heart of the LFA is a bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine that sets new standards for compact dimensions, lightweight architecture and scintillating performance. From the outset it was determined the engine should have a 4,805cc capacity, develop 552bhp and rev to a wailing 9,000rpm red line. A 72-degree angle between the cylinder heads is ideal for achieving balance in the engine for exceptionally smooth running, while providing individual, electronically controlled throttle bodies for each cylinder gives excellent throttle response.

Using a dry sump lubrication system allows the block to be positioned deep in the engine bay, lowering the car’s centre of gravity and moment of inertia, and enabling the engine to handle sustained, high-speed cornering.

The V10 produces 480Nm of torque at 6,800rpm, 90 per cent of which is available from 3,700rpm all the way to the 9,000rpm red line, thanks to Dual VVT-i technology, equal length exhaust manifolds and high-volume, 12-hole fuel injectors. This gives searing in-hear acceleration at all engine speeds and in any gear: nought to 62mph takes just 3.7 seconds and maximum speed is 202mph.

With a kerb weight of 1,480kg, the LFA has a power to weight ratio of 373bhp per tonne, while specific output of 115bhp per litre is among the highest of any current supercar, aided by a high, 12:1 compression ratio, low friction internals and optimised intake and exhaust flow.

In spite of its potency, the V10 is an object lesson in compact and lightweight packaging, being about the same size as a regular V8 engine and weighing about as much as conventional V6. It is also as reliable and refined as any other Lexus power plan and exceeds Euro 5 emissions standards.

The engine was developed in conoctction with Yamaha through the established collaborative partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Japanese specialist engineering company.

TRANSMISSION

The formidable performance of the V10 is managed through an equally advanced transmission, a purpose-designed six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) that drives the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. To help achieve the optimum 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution, it is contained in a transaxle mounted over the rear axle.

The ASG is operated by paddle shifts mounted on the steering column and is engineered for exceptionally fast shifts: an upshift can be effected in just 0.2 seconds.

The system has four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet, activated by a selector dial on the dashboard. Each mode has a specific gearshift programme, and engine and brake control logic systems to let the driver tailor the car’s performance to suit driving conditions.

SOUND

The LFA’s acoustics, induction system and exhaust notes have been specially tuned to deliver an awesome “soundtrack” that expresses the car’s extreme performance, both outside and inside the cabin. Referred to by the acoustic team as “Octave Harmony”, it is inspired by the sound of a Formula 1 engine at full revs and is unlike that of any other road car, with different harmonic qualities created as the engine moves up towards its maximum 9,000rpm.

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Is it a Car or a Motorcycle?
– Land Glider Leans into a Totally New Driving Experience –

Nissan’s planning and design team were given a challenge: to explore new forms of zero emission mobility that redefined existing segments. The result was a radical new vehicle that combines the company’s vision for future urban mobility with Nissan’s great driving heritage.

In creating the Land Glider concept, Nissan planners and designers have conceived a totally new form of personal zero emission mobility that combines clever, new driving experiences, all in the one compact, 4-wheeled package.

With more than 50% of the world’s population living in big cities in the near future, designers latched onto motorcycles as a credible base to start the design process.

While the agility, thrills and freedom of bikes inspired the designers and engineers, an extra spice was added to the mix. Tandem architecture became the obvious choice. A unique two-seater, cocoon-like structure sitting on a zero emission powertrain. With four-wheel stability and a sense of safety that originates from a tilting cabin, the Land Glider will appeal to both two- and four-wheel driving enthusiasts.

Targeted at city dwellers of all generations, the Land Glider is a serious motoring statement of the new era of mobility that Nissan intends to lead.

Cocoon in the shell
“The exterior incorporates a soft, sleek-looking body that appears to be protected by a special armor,” explains Takashi Nakajima, Nissan’s Project Design Director. “And while it is very mechanical in its nature, the four-wheeler boasts a dynamic body design that almost seems alive. As part of Nissan’s expanding zero emission family, the Land Glider exudes a clean, friendly attitude.”

The vehicle’s two-seater tandem layout is enveloped in what seems like the canopy of a glider, while its unique `tilt’ setup employs a special leaning function that holds occupants firmly in place even when the vehicle is cornering at angles. In developing the Land Glider, Nissan designers have created a two-seater that offers the sense of security of a cocoon, but delivers real driving pleasure.

Corner and lean
Described as a `personal city commuter,’ the Land Glider features steering-by-wire and a lean capability when cornering ? like a motorcycle ? that enables the vehicle and its tires to lean by up to 17 degrees. Able to turn sharply at nearly any speed, the Land Glider employs sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate to instantly calculate the level of lean required to negotiate a corner. All the driver must do is turn and the cabin will lean accordingly. By enabling the car to lean, designers have succeeded in minimizing vehicle width and tire tread width, thus achieving a sleek, futuristic look.

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FT-86 Concept (world premiere)
The FT-86 (“86″ pronounced “hachi roku”), a compact rear-wheel-drive sports car, provides driving joy and excitement.

* Compact design gives driver greater control, while body’s lightness and low center of gravity allow racecar-like handling
* Both power and environmental performance provided by 2-liter boxer engine and light body
* Flash Red body color contains hint of blue; interior expresses modern feel with minimal coverage of the highly refined structural components evoking enthusiasm for cruising

FT-86 Concept
A Small FR Sports Concept Vehicle that Combines Environmental Performance and the Joy of Driving

TMC seeks to develop the ultimate earth-conscious environmentally-considerate vehicle with a focus on hybrid technologies without losing sight of the appeal of cars themselves or the joy of driving.

Over the past several years, the need has been rising for motor vehicles that take into consideration global warming and other environmental issues, while there has also been concern that there have been too few new sports cars that make the heart beat faster and that the time is right for a new generation of sports cars. In response to these needs, TMC has developed the FT-86 Concept, a sports car equipped with a 2,000cc, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated gasoline engine that evokes the joy of driving a car and the pleasure of vehicle ownership.

As the name “Future Toyota 86 Concept” implies, the FT-86 Concept, which will be exhibited at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, is a new 86 Toyota with a flash red finish. It is a compact, rear-wheel drive sports concept car that embodies speed and the excitement of driving that give cars their appeal as well as environmental performance.
A Toyota Sports Car for a New Era when the Driver Plays the Main Role

The FT-86 Concept is 4,160mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,260mm high with a wheelbase of 2,570mm, giving it a compact feeling that is easy for the driver to handle while able to accommodate four occupants. In addition to being light and having a low center of gravity, the FT-86 Concept boasts the handling of a racing car as well as a 6-speed manual transmission and ADVICS brakes.

The stylish concept captures the heart with the “functional utility” of its highly-refined body. It is the creation of Toyota Europe Design Development known as ED2, which has established body lines that take into consideration a low center of gravity and aerodynamics. The interior is distinctive, featuring an instrument panel with a gray and white base, gauges with red neon lights and digital displays, and a navigation system. In addition, a zipper that evokes an image of interior lapping with minimal covering of a highly-refined body presents a striking display.

It is necessary to create a vehicle in which the driver plays the main role in order to have as many people as possible experience the joy of driving.

The FT-86 Concept is neither an electric vehicle nor a hybrid vehicle, but is a sports model with a gasoline engine developed to convey the essential appeal of automobiles in a new era. It is a must-see concept car that expresses TMC’s desire to once again create a Toyota sports car.

WORLD PREMIERE: i-MiEV CARGO
Derived from the production i-MiEV, this concept maximises the outstanding environmental performance and economic efficiency characteristics that define the EV and at the same time adds a generous amount of rear free space to extend the range of uses to which it can be put by corporate users and self-employed operators in particular. The rear space features space-efficient cubic dimensions to allow the user to exercise their imagination fully in adapting it for whatever use he/she chooses. The result is a concept for an EV that meets user needs for a variety of situations: from business use, where maximum payload space is required, to leisure and other individual owner uses.

i-MiEV CARGO (SHOW MODEL)

1. Design
The i-MiEV CARGO’s unique styling was developed around a “joint” design concept as it links the i-MiEV’s curvaceous front section with a square rear end to give the vehicle a distinctive road presence in a wide variety of situations. Inside, the clean and simple styling eliminates extraneous elements and details to improve usability and create an interior space characterised by its free-thinking design and originality.

2. Luggage compartment
Measuring 1350 mm wide by 1180 mm deep and 1100 mm high and having a flat floor, the cube-shaped luggage compartment at the rear of the vehicle allows every inch of available space to be utilised. The height of the compartment floor has been designed to facilitate loading and unloading of luggage and make it more user-friendly.

i-MiEV CARGO SPECIFICATIONS

WORLD PREMIERE: MITSUBISHI CONCEPT PX-MiEV
Powered by the new Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System, which significantly extends the frequency a hybrid vehicle is driven in EV mode, the Mitsubishi Concept-PX* MiEV† returns fuel economy in excess of 50 km/litre. The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV is a new-generation concept car that balances high environmental performance with running performance by utilizing differential motors and Mitsubishi’s all-new S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control), that utilises E-AYC (Electric-powered Active Yaw Control) which transfers torque to the rear left and right wheels. Other features include Mitsubishi’s cocochi-interior**, which provides occupants with a comfortable cabin environment, as well as many of the latest safety technologies.

* PX: Plug-in hybrid crossover. † MiEV: Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle
** “cocochi” is a pun on the Japanese word for “cosy”

1. Design
Solid, Safe, and Simple were the keywords which drove the development of an exterior design suitable for a next-generation crossover that creates simple appearance from which all extraneous elements have been pared and that is free of the “rugged” elements typical in conventional SUVs. The headlamps and rear combination lamps use LED emitters that give the car an innovative and modern appearance as well as delivering better environmental performance with their reduced power consumption. The body uses a newly-developed metal colour that gives the car a metal shell-like appearance. Combining elements of both spoke and dish styling, the road wheel design highlights an unprecedented new look to the body as well improving brake cooling and aerodynamic performance.

The interior was designed to give an image of an airplane cockpit to improve the driver’s concentration, with an instrument panel that envelops the passengers and utilises seats that keep the passengers firmly in place. In addition, the entire instrument panel and door trim utilise soft LED lighting that express the vehicle’s innovation and refinement.

2. Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System
The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV’s front and rear wheels are powered by two permanent magnet synchronous motors and is also fitted with a 1.6L DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine which can power the front wheels as well as work as a generator. In addition, the vehicle comes with the newly-developed Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid System in which electronic circuitry automatically switches to the optimum drive mode for different driving conditions and remaining energy in the drive battery to extract maximum efficiency from the electric motors and from the gasoline engine. The Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV also utilises the MiEV OS (MiEV Operating System) which selects the optimum drive mode through integrated control of the EV components and the gasoline engine as well as controls optimum electrical charge and output in response to remaining battery energy through constant monitoring of the drive battery. With these, a pleasing, safe, and comfortable ride is achieved while conserving energy. In addition, to maximise effective use of the drive battery, the vehicle is equipped with a power supply mode that allows the use of some battery power to supply domestic appliances or as an emergency power source in the event of a natural disaster.

* EV mode

At low to middle vehicle speeds the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV’s drive battery powers the front motor using front-wheel drive. When driving on snow, in the rain or in other low surface friction situations where maximum vehicle stability is required, the system automatically switches to four-wheel drive mode by feeding power to the rear wheel motor as well when sensors detect any front wheel slip.

* Series hybrid mode

When the remaining energy in the drive battery falls to a predetermined level the system starts the gasoline engine to generate electricity and automatically switches to the series hybrid mode using the electricity generated to power the motors. In this mode as well, the system switches to four-wheel drive by driving the rear motor depending on driving conditions.

* Parallel hybrid mode

At higher vehicle speeds the car is supported by the gasoline engine which operates more efficiently than the electric motors at high revolutions. In this mode, the gasoline engine also helps drive the wheels. When the driver makes sudden lane changes or other manoeuvres requiring greater vehicle stability the system switches to four-wheel drive by bringing in the rear motor to drive the rear wheels, improving stability. In addition when overtaking at higher speeds or in other situations requiring faster acceleration the system switches in both front and rear motors to provide additional power and assist the gasoline engine, providing high acceleration.

* Regenerative mode

When the vehicle is slowing or coasting down a long descending slope the system switches to regenerative mode in which kinetic energy reclaimed from the wheels is stored in the drive battery.

* Charging mode

As with the production i-MiEV, Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV features a 3-way battery charging system using either a 100-volt or a 200-volt domestic supply or a high-power quick-charging station. The system also incorporates a Wireless Charging Program feature that allows the owner to start charging the battery or start the air conditioner at a preset time even when away from the vehicle.

* Power supply mode

As a way to maximise the usefulness of the power stored in the drive battery based on the “Smart Grid Framework,” which garners attention as a link in tackling global warming, when not on the road the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV allows the owner to store electricity at night and then use that electricity via the normal charging connector to power home appliances during the daytime when domestic electricity consumption is highest. This allows the drive battery to be used as a power source in the event of a natural disaster. Should the electricity left in the battery fall below a predetermined level, the gasoline engine starts up and works as generator to maintain the power supply at a fixed level.

A 100-volt AC auxiliary socket in the rear luggage compartment also allows the electricity stored in the drive battery to be used to power cooking or lighting equipment and other appliances when camping or engaged in other leisure activities.

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Exhibition Outline of the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009

Tokyo, September 30, 2009 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the major highlights that will be displayed at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009. On the theme of ‘Take a Moment to Free Your Mind”, FHI will showcase Subaru’s efforts to integrate enjoyable and dependable driving with the global environment.

FHI will present the “SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT”, a new proposal for the future of grand touring car that integrates environmental friendliness, driving performance, and safety at a high level. In addition, FHI will unveil the “Plug-in STELLA feat. BEAMS”. Designed in collaboration with the renowned specialty store BEAMS, the fully electric car is based on the Plug-in STELLA launched this summer in Japan. The company will also showcase a special version of Impreza WRX STI exclusively tuned for further enhancement of its sporty performance, as well as other production models such as the new Legacy. Besides showcasing these models, FHI will exhibit Subaru’s latest safety technologies, such as the “EyeSight”, an advanced driving assist system with pre-collision control using stereo camera technology.

A press conference by President Ikuo Mori is scheduled on Wednesday, October 21, at 12:10, at the Subaru booth (Center Hall).

Major exhibits

SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)

1. Concept

Subaru has condensed its DNA, developed over many years around the Subaru’s core technology of “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)” and “Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine”, into the integration of a luxurious and high-quality cabin atmosphere and an eye-catching sculpted body. The concept car features Subaru’s latest evolutions in handling agility, riding comfort and superior safety performance. It proposes Subaru’s vision of a future grand touring car that excels in environmental friendliness thanks to Subaru’s unique hybrid system.

2. Design and packaging

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Exterior

Subaru imagined wings with a feeling of freedom and confidence for driving far and wide in any environment. A luxurious and comfortable cabin, and advanced driving performance are contained within a sculpted aerodynamic form. The design features a combination of bright, open glass areas with a solid, reliable body.

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Interior

The original point of the ideal grand touring car is its interior design, featuring four independent and comfortably positioned seats. Passengers are enclosed within an atmosphere that provides a surpassing feeling of openness and stress-free reassurance, through the further pursuit of a human-centered philosophy, the essence of Subaru car design, and the incorporation of functions that are friendly to passengers.
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The top of the dashboard is movable up and down to provide an optimal driving environment for the driver according to driving conditions.
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A flat floor in the rear seat was achieved even with the implementation of AWD, for improved use and movement inside the cabin.
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Specialized shielding is incorporated in the windshield to reduce eyestrain on the driver.
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New leather covering developed with superior breathability and a ventilation function is used in the seats for improved comfort and texture.

3. Mechanisms

In addition to refinements to Subaru’s core technology such as Symmetrical AWD and Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine, further enhancements were made for improved environmental friendliness, driving performance and high safety performance by offering a next-generation power unit system and advanced safety technologies.

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Next-generation power unit system

2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine

The Horizontally-Opposed turbo gasoline engine, with a reputation for powerful acceleration, is combined with a direct fuel-injection system for improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and improved torque and response in practical range. This evolution in Subaru turbo technology excels in both environmental friendliness and engine performance.

Lineartronic (CVT)

Lineartronic, Subaru’s new generation automatic transmission, achieves further improvements in both fuel efficiency and driving performance by reinforcing parts for use with the high-power output of a turbo engine.

Hybrid system

To further enhance the appeal of the Symmetrical AWD system, this unique hybrid two-motor system features a power/drive motor in the front and a drive motor in the rear.

At start-up and extremely low speeds when fuel efficiency is low, such as when driving the car into a garage, the rear motor is used primarily to allow driving without utilizing the power of the engine.

During normal driving, the front engine is primarily used. The direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline mated with the Symmetrical AWD offers a whole new, Subaru driving experience.

During acceleration, the rear motor assists the driving power of the engine to achieve advanced driving performance.

Further, when accelerating uphill, the front motor, which is normally used as a power generator, assists to drive the front axle for improved performance.

The implementation of a non-idling function that stops the engine when the car comes to a halt reduces unnecessary fuel consumption.

The use of a high-performance lithium battery is based on experience and know-how achieved with the Subaru Plug-in STELLA electric vehicle, launched this summer. This includes the use of a precise energy management system and regenerative brake controls, for improvements in excellent fuel efficiency.

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Hino Motors Ltd., Isuzu Motors Ltd., Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus Corp. and Nissan Diesel Motor Co. will skip this year’s Tokyo Motor Show to cut costs, Nikkei English News said.

It will be the first time that major Japanese automakers have missed the show, which began in 1954, the Nikkei reported, without saying where it obtained the information.

It’s no secret that Honda is planning to follow its new Insight up with a production version of the CRX-like CR-Z two-seat hybrid. But thanks to a very well informed source, we’ve got a few new, never-before-released details about the car.

First, the production version of the CR-Z will make its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show this November and go on sale in Japan in December.

Got that helmet ready? ‘Cause here comes the mind-blowing part.

What’s got us both excited and curious is news that Honda is planning to make a CR-Z Type R. You read that correctly: a Type R hybrid.

The only thing we know about the CR-Z Type R is that it is supposed to launch in 2010. Unfortunately, this source can’t give us any details about just what will transform this standard CR-Z into a Type R. Will it be nothing more than a two-seat version of the Mugen Insight, meaning just a car with a functional aero kit and some wheels?

Back in February of 2008, Honda’s UK manager for product planning, Mark Turner, said development of the CR-Z was underway at Honda’s R&D facility in Germany and that a strictly gasoline-powered version could make it to market if there was suitable demand. Fast-forward to today, and a new report claims Honda could be developing a CR-Z Type-R rumored to launch in Japan sometime next year.

At this point, Honda refuses to confirm or deny the existence of a Type-R version of the CR-Z, and there’s plenty of speculation about what could power the new hot hatch. Honda could take a play from the Accord Hybrid and boost the stock CR-Z’s gasoline-electric drivetrain, or, if Turner’s mention of a gasoline-only model is to be believed, fit the CR-Z Type-R with a revised version of Honda’s K20 inline-four.

Either way, expect the production version of the Honda CR-Z to debut at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show and keep your fingers crossed that a Type-R variant gets some space on the stage.