Immediate Release

Lexus Enters Brace of LF-A in Round the Clock ‘Ring Race

Lexus will enter two LF-A sportscar prototypes in the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race on 23-24 May, 2009.

The entry of the two-seater sportscar, which is powered by a 5.0-litre, V10 producing more than 500PS, forms part of an on-going R&D process.  As in 2008, Lexus engineers will use the gruelling race at the infamous German track to gather technical data that will be applied to future mass-production of vehicles.  The company will also use the event as an opportunity to develop human resources by giving young mechanics the chance to work as support staff.

The cars are prototypes of the LF-A, which is currently being developed with an eye on commercialisation. Modifications for the race include safety equipment (roll cage, fuel tank, etc.), as well as a spoiler and other aerodynamic features.  The development team has improved the LF-A’s performance with fine-tuning based on experience gained in last year’s, race while specifications for the engine, powertrain, and body structure remain largely unchanged.

Lexus has a strong track record in endurance racing in the US and Japan. Past successes include powering the winners of the legendary Daytona 24 Hours in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and winning the  GrandAm championship (Grand American Rolex Series) with a record number of wins; and claiming the Super GT title in 2006 with the Lexus SC 430.

Specifications of Lexus LF-A competing in the Nürburgring 24-hour Endurance Race:

Vehicle (racecar) name

Lexus LF-A (racing specs)

Entry category/class

Division 2 SP8 (engine ‘close-to-production’)

Team name

GAZOO Racing

Engine

V-10
Displacement: 4,805 cc
Maximum engine output: over 500PS

Body

Total length: 4,530mm
Total width: 1,880mm
Total height: 1,200mm
Wheelbase: 2,605mm
Body: carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP)

Vehicle layout

Front-mid-engine, rear-mid-transaxle, rear radiator

Transmission

Paddle-shift sequential manual transmission

Tyres

Front/rear size: 305/30R20
Bridgestone racing tyres

ENDS

This and further Lexus information and pictures can be downloaded from the Lexus media website on: http://www.lexusgb-press.co.uk or through www.newspress.co.uk

For further information contact one of the following:   

Michael Valvo on 01737 367264 or by e-mail at michael.valvo@lgb.lexus.co.uk
Richard Seymour on 01737 367272or by e-mail at richard.seymour@lgb.lexus.co.uk
Erica Haddon on 01737 367308 or by e-mail at erica.haddon@lgb.lexus.co.uk
David Crouch on 01737 367307 or by e-mail at david.crouch@lgb.lexus.co.uk
Scott Brownlee on 01737 367266 or by e-mail at scott.brownlee@lgb.lexus.co.uk

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Ref: 090421N

 
 


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