Hikari Concept Uses Light to Become a Shape-Shifter

Party Tricks

Lexus is known for a lot of things, but perhaps the most underrated quality the automaker possesses is the ability to build some seriously stunning concepts. But this incredibly cool idea from Toyota designer Hanzhengyi Pan might just be the coolest one we've seen yet. On its own accord, this concept, dubbed the Hikari, is aesthetically beautiful. But it has a few cool tricks up its sleeve as well. 

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

Playing Around

Hikari is Japanese for "light," which gives you a pretty good idea of what it's all about. Pan found inspiration for the design in an architectural classic known as The White U House by Toyo Ito. Specifically, its U-shaped courtyard design, which creates a play of light within the house. Pan's goal was to incorporate that same contrast of light and shadow into the Hikari concept. 

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

Shape Shifter

Thus, the Hikari is a shape-shifter of sorts, with two main forms present on the exterior. One allows light, while the other restricts it. The exterior itself is constructed from Toyoda Gosei’s "e-rubber,", a high-tech material that holds together a surface while allowing it to bend without any visible creases. This allows the exterior to change the amount of light passing over and through the transparent roof of the car.

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

Car of the Future

The idea is to create a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior of the car using nothing but light. It's an ingenious idea, really, and one that could certainly find a home on cars of the future. Since this is a fully autonomous fuel-cell vehicle, the Hikari is most certainly that, not only is design but in every other aspect as well.

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

Comfy Cabin

These characteristics also make the Hikari more of a mobile living space than a car as well. The interior is a cocoon of sorts, creating a comfy space for occupants. The nature of the roof and light manipulation also makes it an ideal place to catch a show or movie while on the road, conduct a business meeting, or just catch a much-deserved cat nap.

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

Realistic Idea

The idea here is to create a connection between the passengers of the Hikari and the outside world, while also offering a sheltered place if so desired. It's an interesting concept, of course, and one that could easily come to fruition. Just not anytime soon, of course. 

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

Escaping Chaos

Providing a calm, focused escape from our otherwise chaotic world sounds like a pretty relaxing way to spend a day on the road, that's for sure. Though we still enjoy a little spirited driving using our own hands and feet as a method of stress relief, catching a movie and some sleep on long road trips sounds pretty enticing, too.

Photos: Hanzhengyi Pan

>>Join the conversation about this Hikari Concept right here in Club Lexus.

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