Editing Lexus (section)

==Design and technology==
[[File:Remote Touch lexus controller.jpg|right|thumb|Lexus [[Remote Touch]] controller|alt=Palmrest with forward buttons and movable control knob.]]

Lexus design has traditionally placed an emphasis on targeting specific vehicle development standards.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=33}}</ref> Since the marque's inception, design targets have ranged from aerodynamics and [[ride quality]] to interior ergonomics.<ref name=d68/><ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=42–43}}</ref> The [[backronym]] "IDEAL" ("Impressive, Dynamic, Elegant, Advanced, and Lasting") is used in the development process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/issue/2005/0623/article71881_1.html|title=Lexus IS & GS news|publisher=Response.jp|access-date=20 May 2009|date=23 June 2005|language=ja|archive-date=28 August 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060828115231/http://response.jp/issue/2005/0623/article71881_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Each vehicle is designed according to approximately 500 specific product standards, known as "Lexus Musts", on criteria such as [[leather]] seat stitching.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100502.html |publisher=Automotive Design & Production |title=Introducing the '06 IS |last=Vasilash |first=Gary |year=2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112164957/http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100502.html |archive-date=12 January 2009}}</ref><ref name=webcg>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/000016969.html|title=New Lexus GS, SC, IS released|language=ja|date=26 July 2005|publisher=WebCG|access-date=15 November 2010|last=Tamotsu|first=Yoshi|archive-date=6 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306225047/http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/000016969.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Design elements from the marque's concept vehicle line, the [[Lexus LF|LF series]] (including the 2003 [[Lexus LF-S|LF-S]] and 2004 [[Lexus LF-C|LF-C]]), have been incorporated in production models.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=206}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Geneva debut, Lexus finesses next IS sedan |work=[[Autoweek]] |date=7 March 2005}}</ref>

Vehicle cabins have incorporated [[electroluminescence|electroluminescent]] Optitron gauges,<ref name=d71>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=71}}</ref> SmartAccess, a [[advanced key|smart key]] entry and startup system,<ref name=tech/> and multimedia features. Beginning with the 2010 RX and HS models, the [[Remote Touch]] system, featuring a [[computer mouse]]-like controller with [[Haptic technology|haptic feedback]], was introduced;<ref name=hs/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2341432,00.asp|title=Hands On: Lexus' Remote Touch Beats iDrive|work=PC Magazine|access-date=24 February 2009|last=Howard|first=Bill|date=20 February 2009|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222220108/https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2341432,00.asp|url-status=live}}</ref> other models have featured [[touchscreen]] controls (through the 2009 model year) as a navigation screen interface.<ref name=tech>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043103.htm |title=One Long, Lean Lexus |date=23 July 2007 |work=BusinessWeek |access-date=19 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430193427/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043103.htm |archive-date=30 April 2008}}</ref> 2014 saw the introduction of the next version of Lexus' remote-touch innovations—the Remote Touch Interface Touchpad in the new [[Lexus RC|RC Coupe]].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/magazine/articles/Vehicle-Insider/Touch-and-Go |title=New Feature: the Remote Touch Interface Touchpad |first1=Brian |last1=Gill |first2=Kevin |last2=Watts |publisher=Lexus |location=US |date=31 March 2014 |access-date=8 November 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101061338/http://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/magazine/articles/Vehicle-Insider/Touch-and-Go |archive-date=1 January 2016}}</ref>

In 1989, Lexus became among the first premium car marques to equip models with premium audio systems, in partnership with stereo firm [[Nakamichi]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/11/business/what-s-new-in-car-stereos-in-the-auto-sound-race-detroit-speeds-ahead.html|title=What's New in Car Stereos|work=The New York Times|access-date=20 May 2009|last=Bloom|first=Craig|date=11 June 1989|archive-date=28 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128204224/https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/11/business/what-s-new-in-car-stereos-in-the-auto-sound-race-detroit-speeds-ahead.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=caud>{{cite web|url=http://www.laaudiofile.com/newcar.html|title=Surveying The Best New Car Sound Systems|last=Nakano|first=Roy|publisher=LA Car|year=2004|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=21 April 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421072807/http://www.laaudiofile.com/newcar.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Since 2001, optional [[surround sound]] systems are offered via [[high-end audio]] purveyor [[Mark Levinson Audio Systems|Mark Levinson]].<ref name=caud/> For reduced cabin noise, the first LS 400 introduced sandwich [[steel]] plating,<ref name=d71/> and later models added [[Insulated glazing#Acoustic insulation|acoustic glass]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050224.wxwhhybrids24/BNStory/specialMegawheels/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116181359/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050224.wxwhhybrids24/BNStory/specialMegawheels/ |archive-date=16 January 2009 |title=Lexus RX 400h review update|date=24 February 2005|work=The Globe and Mail|last=Cato|first=Jeremy|access-date=19 June 2008|location=Toronto}}</ref> In 2006, the LS 460 debuted the first ceiling [[air diffuser]]s and [[infrared]] body temperature sensors in a car.<ref name=sae/><ref name=wcoty>{{cite web|url=http://www.wcoty.com/media/?release=32&year=2007|title=Lexus LS 460 – WCOTY|access-date=8 April 2007|publisher=World Car of the Year|date=5 April 2007|archive-date=13 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070513172536/http://www.wcoty.com/media/?release=32&year=2007|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Telematics]] services include [[G-Book]] with [[G-Book#G-Link|G-Link]] in Asia and [[Safety Connect|Lexus Enform]] in North America.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/n0000020373.html|title=Toyota expand telematics services in North America|publisher=WebCG|language=ja|access-date=20 April 2010|date=9 January 2009|archive-date=6 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306225026/http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/n0000020373.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus IS F 08.JPG|left|thumb|Eight-speed automatic transmission in the IS F and [[Lexus LS (XF40)|LS 460 Sport]]|alt=Cutaway car transmission, with exposed gears and internal machinery.]]

In 2006, Lexus incorporated the first production eight-speed [[automatic transmission]] in an automobile with the LS 460,<ref name=sae/> and the gearbox was later adapted for the GS 460 and IS F models. [[Continuously variable transmission]]s, [[regenerative brake]]s, and electric motors have been used on all Lexus hybrid models.<ref name=hyh/> In 2007, Lexus executives signaled intentions to equip further models with hybrid powertrains,<ref name=ukh>{{cite web|url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/archives/24829-lexus-plans-for-growth-on-the-back-of-its-hybrid-models.html |title=Lexus GB plans for growth on the back of its hybrid models |publisher=Motortrader |access-date=18 April 2007 |date=18 April 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090917114124/http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/archives/24829-lexus-plans-for-growth-on-the-back-of-its-hybrid-models.html |archive-date=17 September 2009}}</ref> catering to demands for a decrease in both [[pollution|carbon pollution]] and [[Oil depletion|oil reliance]].<ref name=ph>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai1kb.oIY_nE|title=Toyota's Lexus May Add High-Performance U.S. Hybrids|date=27 September 2007|publisher=Bloomberg|last=Ohnsman|first=Alan|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=2 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102191810/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai1kb.oIY_nE|url-status=live}}</ref> Hybrid models have been differentiated by separate badging and lighting technology; in 2008, the LS 600h L became the first production vehicle to use [[Light-emitting diode|LED]] [[LED headlamp|headlamps]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/26866 |title=Lexus is first to deploy LED-based car headlamps|publisher=Compound Semiconductor|date=19 January 2007|access-date=8 July 2010 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080320051414/http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/26866 |archive-date=20 March 2008}}</ref>

Safety features on Lexus models range from stability and handling programs ([[Electronic stability control|Vehicle Stability Control]] and [[Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management]])<ref name=safety>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/lexus-takes-a-new-design-direction/article306040/|title=Lexus takes new design direction|date=9 December 2004|work=The Globe and Mail|last=Law|first=Alex|access-date=8 June 2009|location=Toronto|archive-date=31 July 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090731161644/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/lexus-takes-a-new-design-direction/article306040/|url-status=live}}</ref> to backup cameras, swivel headlights, and sonar warning systems. The [[Precrash system|Lexus Pre-Collision System]] (PCS) integrates multiple safety systems.<ref name=safety/> In 2007, Lexus introduced the first car safety systems with infrared and pedestrian detection capabilities, [[lane departure warning system|lane keep assist]], a [[Driver Monitoring System]] with [[facial recognition system|facial recognition]] monitoring of driver attentiveness, and rear pre-collision [[whiplash (medicine)|whiplash]] protection, as part of the LS 460 PCS.<ref name=sae>{{cite press release |url=http://www.sae.org/servlets/pressRoom?OBJECT_TYPE=PressReleases&PAGE=showRelease&RELEASE_ID=548 |title=Automotive Engineering International – LS 460 2007 Best Engineered Vehicle |work=Society of Automotive Engineers |location=US |publisher=SAE International |date=10 April 2007 |access-date=6 May 2007 |archive-date=5 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205165325/http://www.sae.org/servlets/pressRoom?OBJECT_TYPE=PressReleases&PAGE=showRelease&RELEASE_ID=548 |url-status=live }}</ref> As a safety precaution, Lexus [[Automotive navigation system|GPS navigation systems]] in many regions feature a motion lockout when the vehicle reaches a set speed; to prevent distraction, navigation inputs are limited, while voice input and certain buttons are still accessible. This safety feature has attracted criticism because passengers cannot use certain functions when the vehicle is in motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0806/p01s01-usgn.html|title=New peril in driver's seat|date=6 August 2004|work=The Christian Science Monitor|last=Evarts|first=Eric|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=7 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507041211/https://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0806/p01s01-usgn.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Pre-2007 models came with a hidden manufacturer override option,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wikihow.com/Override-Lexus-Navigation-Motion-Lock|title=How to Override Lexus Navigation Motion Lock|year=2007|publisher=WikiHow|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=1 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701035108/https://www.wikihow.com/Override-Lexus-Navigation-Motion-Lock|url-status=live}}</ref> and updated European models allow operation in motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lexus-mapupdates.eu/|title=LEXUS Navigation Map Updates|year=2010|publisher=Lexus Europe|access-date=15 May 2010|archive-date=6 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506160341/https://www.lexus-mapupdates.eu/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus LS 600h L powertrain cutaway.jpg|thumb|2006 [[Lexus LS (XF40)|LS 600h]] and LS 600h L in hybrid form|alt=Cutaway hybrid car showing electrical connections; auto show display backdrop.]]

Production models in development have included convertibles, crossovers, and dedicated hybrids.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060815/FREE/60814017/1041|title=Future Products – Lexus|date=15 August 2006|work=AutoWeek|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629013744/http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20060815%2FFREE%2F60814017%2F1041|archive-date=29 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=wings>{{cite web|url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/59D124ADF8528A6CCA2572C90016B851 |title=Future Models – Lexus to spread its wings |date=26 April 2007 |publisher=GoAuto |last1=Mathioudakis |first1=Byron |last2=Pettendy |first2=Marton |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013104946/http://goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/59D124ADF8528A6CCA2572C90016B851 |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref> Under the F marque, Lexus plans to produce high-performance vehicles with its first expressions being the IS F and the LFA. Lexus officials have also discussed standard production model usage of varying [[Automobile platform|platforms]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Drew |date=1 May 2009 |title=Leaked image reveals 2010 Lexus ES |work=Leftlane News }}</ref> The LS uses a dedicated platform,<ref name=m31/> while the entry-level Lexus ES had been criticized for being too similar to the Toyota Camry, with which it shared platforms until its sixth generation,<ref name="2013es"/> in both styling and powertrain design.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cars.ign.com/articles/607/607487p1.html |title=IGN Car Review – 2005 Lexus ES 330 |date=25 April 2005 |website=IGN.com |last=Kaehler |first=Justin |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060115093934/http://cars.ign.com/articles/607/607487p1.html |archive-date=15 January 2006}}</ref> The [[Nürburgring]] test track in Germany has also seen Lexus prototype testing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-lf-a-caught-in-testing-on-nurburgring-circuit.html|title=Lexus LF-A caught in testing on Nurburgring circuit|date=31 October 2005|publisher=Leftlane News|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222220150/http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-lf-a-caught-in-testing-on-nurburgring-circuit.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===L-finesse===
{{see also|Lexus LF}}
Lexus introduced a new [[design language]] known as "L-finesse" in the mid-2000s with its LF series concepts and the 2006 Lexus GS.<ref name=lfin>{{cite web|url=http://car-reviews.automobile.com/news/lexus-l-finesse-design-analysis-is-is-it/1450/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707191605/http://www.automobile.com/lexus-l-finesse-design-analysis-is-is-it.html |archive-date=7 July 2011|title=Lexus L-Finesse Design Analysis: IS is IT!|last=Yarkony|first=Jonathan|date=26 September 2005|publisher=American Auto Press|access-date=6 May 2007}}</ref><ref name=lap>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobear.com/WhatThe2006LexusISIsAndIsnt.html |title=What the 2006 Lexus IS is, and isn't |publisher=AutomoBear.com |date=7 March 2005 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060426182338/http://www.automobear.com/WhatThe2006LexusISIsAndIsnt.html |archive-date=26 April 2006}}</ref> L-finesse is represented by three Japanese [[kanji]] characters which translate as "Intriguing Elegance, Incisive Simplicity, and Seamless Anticipation".<ref name=lap/> Design characteristics, including a [[fastback]] profile, lower-set [[Grille (car)|grille]],<ref name=own>{{cite news |last=Rechtin |first=Mark |title=Lexus Finally Gets a Design of its Own |work=Automotive News |date=27 October 2003}}</ref> and the use of both convex and concave surfaces,<ref name=own/> are derived from Japanese cultural motifs (e.g. the phrase ''[[kirikaeshi]]'' in arrowhead shapes).<ref>{{cite news |last=Morrison |first=Mac. |title=Mountain Climber: Lexus unveils the next IS sport sedan |work=AutoWeek |date=21 March 2005}}</ref> While earlier Lexus models were criticized for reserved and derivative styling, and often mistaken for understated domestic market cars,<ref name=own/> [[automotive design]] analyses described L-finesse as adding a distinctive nature and embrace of Japanese design identity.<ref name=lfin/><ref name=lap/>

Opinions varied for L-finesse's debut on the GS; ''[[Sports Car International]]''{{'s}} analysis praised the vehicle's in-person appearance;<ref>Coates, Del. Design Matters. Sports Car International, 2005–09.</ref> ''Automobile Magazine'' criticized the daring of its forward styling,<ref>Cumberford, Robert. Not There Yet But Getting Closer. Automobile Magazine. (2004–05).</ref> and compared subsequent rival models for design similarities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/jaguar/2009_jaguar_xf/index.html |title=2009 Jaguar XF – Design |year=2007 |work=Automobile Magazine |last=Conway |first=Gavin |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015063427/http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/jaguar/2009_jaguar_xf/index.html |archive-date=15 October 2007}}</ref> In 2012, the arrival of the redesigned fourth generation Lexus GS featured the introduction of a spindle-shaped grille design, intended to be used on all forthcoming Lexus models.<ref name=nagoya/> L-finesse exhibitions were presented at [[Milan]]'s [[Salone del Mobile]] from 2005 through 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencardesign.co.uk/site/item.php?id=1209596679&category=city_watch&subcat=|title=Milan Design Week '08 Auto|date=30 April 2008|publisher=Green Car Design|access-date=25 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120803044610/http://www.greencardesign.co.uk/site/item.php?id=1209596679&category=city_watch&subcat=|archive-date=3 August 2012}}</ref>
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