Lexus LF-Ch full hybrid concept was unveiled today prior to its debut from the Frankfurt Motor Show. According to the manufacturer, the new hybrid reflects the demand for smaller and fuel efficient cars, but without losing comfort or driving pleasure. The LF-Ch is a new step for Lexus and reaffirms its commitment to Europe, combining compact dimensions, stylish five-door, full hybrid technology and low emissions. Ok, now let's take a look at the new car!
The new Lexus LF-Ch concept represents an evolution of Lexus' L-finesse design philosophy showing a new bolder grille design that sits above a deep, full-width bumper and air dam. The new wings, sculpted in the aerodynamic tunnel overlap the front bumper to create deep front brake-cooling air intakes and to give the car an aggressive look.
The steeply raked windscreen, long flowing roofline, blacked-out B-pillars and rear doorhandles integrated in the C-pillar window trim combine to give the appearance of a sporting pillarless coupe. The rear completes successfully the design and the lower bumper smoothes airflow from beneath the car and feeds ventilation to the rear brakes.
Inside, we find the same L-finesse design philosophy and we see the hand-crafted quality in the detailing to create a calm, efficient and elegant design. Materials such as semi-aniline leather, polished aluminium or wood complete the theme of harmonious contrast.
Using the Lexus Remote Touch controls -- as first seen in the new RX 450h -- distracting instrumentation and switchgear has been kept to a minimum and the driver's attention is kept only on the road ahead.
Regarding the technical part, the LF-Ch's full hybrid powertrain delivers all the performance customers need and expect from a premium hatchback. The car is capable to offer a full electric EV mode, a power option that is not available to drivers of mild hybrids.
Lexus is essentially the luxury division of Toyota Motor Corp. as based in Nagoya, Japan. It is an offshoot of a corporate project to develop a new premium sedan, code-named F1, which was started in 1983. That year, Toyota chairman Eiji Toyoda issued a challenge to build the best car in the world.
In the 1980s, the Japanese government imposed export restraints into the US. This restricted mainstream sales but also made it more profitable for Japanese carmakers to export more expensive cars to the country. In 1986, Honda launched its Acura luxury brand in the US, thereby influencing Toyota's decision to create a luxury division. In 1989, Toyota introduced its Lexus brand and launched Lexus LS.