Lexus Unveils a Different Type of Hybrid
Not content to rest on its laurels as the premier ‘green’ luxury auto marque, Lexus is taking the next step to go ‘blue’ as well. We have learned that Lexus plans to expand its portfolio with a new nearly-watertight vehicle based on the HP-X concept we saw last year.
model which is slated to be launched in early 2012 will be called the
WT-F, which stands for Water Transport. The Yamaha-built motor and
eight-speed transmission gear are shared with the current sporty Lexus
IS-F model. Like the IS-F, the ‘F’ tagged on the end of the new model’s
callsign underscores the high performance motor and fast-shifting
transmission which will drive this innovative transport both on the
highways and the high seas.
Well,
maybe not the high seas. The vehicle is fully watertight for crossing
small streams or navigating pesky local flooding. Lexus claims the
vehicle will also drive into relatively calm water in small lakes and
rivers for distances of up to five miles. The buoyancy of the vehicle is
provided by a high tech air-imbedded rubber substance made primarily
from discarded and recycled run-flat tires scavenged from Lexus dealers.
The WT-F’s specially designed suspension and wheels will provide the
motivation and directionality the ability to adjust camber and ride
height on the fly… or rather on the float system all controlled by an
advanced ECU built by Merrimack.
Described as a high-performance
water utility vehicle, the WT-F is aimed at the affluent outdoor
enthusiast who doesn’t want to compromise with a simple sporty SUV.
However, “the ultimate market for this vehicle may actually be in urban
areas” said Lexus Marketing Representative Minoru Genda. “The WT-F could
drive directly across the river from Jersey to Manhattan without
touching a bridge or tunnel saving hours of commute each week”. On-road
performance is claimed to be similar or better than the Porsche Cayenne
S, but Genda laughed a bit and said the ‘S’ stands for ‘Sinks’, unlike
the WT-F.
If you’re worried about the upcoming Apocalypse in
2012, this may be the ride for you. And when the Lexus service
representative steps out and says “who’s the U-boat commander?” you can
proudly raise your hand. Bon Voyage, Lexus.
