Get the LC 500 Scoop Straight From the Chief Engineer and Designer
Ever since Lexus debuted the stunning LC 500 coupe at the 2016 NAIAS in Detroit, we’ve be clamoring to learn everything we can about the car. Now, thanks to this interview with the LC’s Chief Engineer, Koji Sato, and Chief Designer, Tadao Mori, we’re getting an earful.
Granted, the interview, the first part of a series, was done by the publicists at Lexus. But while the information certainly tows the company line, it’s still quite informative.
As such, we plucked six telling quotes from the interview, highlighting some of the things we learned about the hotly anticipated new LC model…
1. “Every feature on the LC is the result of an integrated approach to design and engineering. The whole team worked together, engineers and designers alike. This is why we have been able to create such a great car.” —
Koji Sato
2. “Everything presented a challenge, but it was the packaging – how we made use of space in the car – that was the most demanding aspect: how to keep a low roof, but at the same time keep the cabin comfortable or how to fit the car with 21-inch wheels, but still have a low bonnet.” –Tadao Mori
3. “Obviously there are elements such as the carbon fibre and aluminium door construction, the introduction of Lexus Safety System+ and the new Remote Touch Interface that is being introduced with the 2017 multimedia system. The LC also has a shift-by-wire system, which is a first for Lexus. But to tell you the truth, I’m not overly concerned about the LC’s world-firsts, what’s more important to me is the overall result and seeing drivers fall in love with the car.” — Koji Sato
4. “I was thrilled how we were able to achieve the small front and rear overhangs by designing one of world’s slimmest headlight units, which uses sophisticated lenses to focus the LED beams. We have also designed very compact rear lights that use twin mirrors to create infinite reflection patterns.” — Tadao Mori
5. “When Akio Toyoda sat in the LF-LC for the first time, he was impressed but said he could not imagine it as the interior of a genuine driver’s car.” — Tadao Mori
6. ” There were – and are – more than 4,000 people involved in the LC project and they have done an amazing job. This is a car with a completely new platform that was delivered in five years instead of the usual six. It was hard work, but a good test for everyone to focus on a common goal and make it happen.” — Koji Sato
Sounds pretty darn intriguing, wouldn’t you say? Check out the entire interview here, then let us know what you find most intriguing about the LC 500!
