Lexus LF-LC Concept
Concept cars are usually non-production cars shown to gauge receptiveness to radical design, but the Lexus LF-LC concept, due to make an appearance at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit from Jan 10 to Jan 13, 2012, could very well go into production. If that takes place, it will give the Mercedes-Benz CL and BMW's 6 series coupe a good run for their money. The futuristic design of the concept LF-LC is a further evolution of Toyota's L-Finesse design language, seen in its recent bolder styling on the new Lexus GS. For instance, the hourglass-shaped grille and the slit-eyed headlamps are akin to the L-Finesse design on the new GS model. However, there is also similarity with the LF-A supercar, such as the sculpted rear apron, tail lamp clusters and the bulging haunches with air scoops. In the words of Lexus, this concept "takes the new Lexus design direction one step further". The interior sports swathes of stitched leather.
This luxurious hybrid sports coupe 2+2 benefits from the acclaimed hybrid Lexus technology (Lexus Hybrid Drive). Although no official details have been given about the engine, speculations abound that it will be a hybrid powertrain derived from the 5.0-litre V8/electric unit currently used in the LS600h.
Toyota NS4 Concept Hybrid
Toyota also announced that the NS4 Concept Hybrid and the Prius C Hybrids will be shown at the 2012 Detroit NAIAS. The only information available as of now of the elite plug-in hybrid NS4 concept is a partial photo showing LED accent lights and blue-tinted housing headlights. On the other hand, the Prius C Hybrid will be an entry-level vehicle using Toyota's renowned Hybrid Synergy Drive which uses a fuel-economic 1.5 litre engine that is capable of getting more than 21.3 km per litre below its belt. It is likely that the standard features available in current Prius models will be found on both concepts, such as nine airbags, steering-wheel audio controls and Bluetooth connectivity. Toyota is currently the world leader in hybrids and plug-in hybrids, which trademark is its eco-friendly feature of 70% less fog forming emissions than other new cars in the market.
Toyota Prius C Hybrid
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