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Lexus LC 500 Aviation adds some aeronautic flair for 70 lucky owners (in Japan)

In our experience, there's a notable overlap between enthusiasts of fine automobiles and aviation. Lexus seems to think so too, which is why it is releasing a plane-themed version of its flagship sport coupe. The Lexus LC Aviation will come in both LC 500 and LC 500h form, and features an aeronautic-inspired centerpiece on the rear decklid. That would be a curved carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) spoiler that follows the trailing edge arc of the trunk, with two downturned winglets on either end. Lexus says the winglets are functional, generating a vertical vortex that smooths out the turbulence generated from airflow along the car's flanks. The result is improved yaw and steering response, comfort, and stability at high speed. The wing itself is made by craftsmen from the LFA project, which famously created and used a 3D carbon-fiber loom to weave parts of the V10 supercar's body. Part of the development was conducted with Yoshihide Muroya, an acrobatic pilot and winner of the 2017 Red Bull Air Race Championships. The rest of the package includes beautifully slim, black, 21-inch split-spoke wheels that you won't find on the standard LC. The trademark "spindle" grille has been blacked out as have the side vent moldings, and head and taillight garnish. The cabin comes in an exclusive color Lexus calls Aviation Black, while other tidbits, like an Alcantara steering wheel, shift knob and door trim, as well as saddle-colored highlights, finish off the cabin. There are no powertrain upgrades.  The only three colors are available are silver, white, and black. Alas, only 70 units will be produced for the Japanese market. It goes on sale Jan. 6, 2021.

Toyota shows a smoother autonomous Lexus for CES

Toyota is bringing a new research vehicle to CES. The TRI-P4 autonomous driving test vehicle, based on the Lexus LS500h, is a major step ahead, according to Toyota, as it has improved computing power and additional cameras for better reaction times. Earlier test mules have also used the LS as a basis, and the shift to the new, fifth generation LS brings chassis and steering-control benefits, so the vehicle's movements are smoother in automated mode. The camera tech has also been better integrated into the vehicle design, courtesy of CALTY in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Development has been swift, as the TRI's P2.1 car was unveiled in 2017. The P4 car will be used for Toyota Research Institute's Guardian and Chauffeur mode development. The two tiers differ somewhat, as TRI's Ryan Eustice explains: "Our Chauffeur development is focused on full autonomy, where the human is essentially removed from the driving equation, either completely in all environments, or within a restricted driving domain. Guardian, on the other hand, is being designed to amplify human performance behind the wheel, not replace it. The introduction of the new P4 platform will help us accelerate the development of both tracks when it joins our fleet this spring." The vehicle's situational awareness is boosted by two extra cameras facing on the sides, and a new imaging sensor both forward and rearward. Toyota says the P4's lidar setup is a carryover from the previous platform, but that its machine learning is much improved by its more powerful computer setup. The electricity required by the P4's computing power also comes from the hybrid battery, and as the computer "brain" is now housed vertically against the rear seat's backing, actual trunk space has been freed. More LS500hs will begin to be modified into TRI-P4 vehicles during spring 2019. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings.

Experience the New York Auto Show by drone

The Autoblog team recently returned from wildly running around the Javits Center to cover all the news and debuts at the New York Auto Show. Sometimes, it's nice to take a more serene look at the exhibition floor, though, and the event's organizers are providing that exact opportunity by flying a drone through the hall. Combined with the down-tempo music, this clip feels like a form of automotive meditation. If you're going to miss the show in the Big Apple, the drone also provides a good overview at the exhibition floor, especially at the stands from Lexus, Buick, Dodge, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and BMW. Plus, it's a fun way to see some vehicles from a completely different angle than they ever appear on the road. Related Video: News Source: New York International Auto Show via YouTube Auto News New York Auto Show BMW Buick Dodge Honda Lexus Mercedes-Benz Toyota Videos drone 2015 ny auto show