Lexus
Aileron Concept
The
Lexus Aileron is an unusual and radical concept car which was created by Jiyun
Seo during her transportation design degree course at Hong-ik University in
South Korea. The Aileron’s styling was inspired by the art of origami, and the
accordion-like extending body panels mean the car can change its aerodynamic
profile depending on the speed at which it is traveling.
The
Lexus Aileron concept also features an array of materials and gadgets which,
while clever, haven’t actually been invented yet. The body is made of a
substance called bio-steel, and there isn’t any mention of how the movable
panels are actuated.
But
if you can put aside the feasibility issues of the car, just for now, then the
Lexus Aileron is a pretty awsome looking concept. It’s certainly unique, with
its extremely low profile and dramatically swooping windscreen. And whether the
shape-shifting bodywork works or not, the multiple layers it creates give the
car an original and striking aesthetic.
Jiyun
hasn’t gone into much detail about the Lexus Aileron’s drivetrain – although we
know it has been placed at the rear, and it gets plenty of cooling air thanks
to the multitude of intakes at the front of the car and above the engine bay.
The
interior of the Lexus Aileron concept is strictly made for two occupants. And
even then it looks a little bit cramped. The driver and passenger are separated
by an extremely high center console which is almost the same height as the
dashboard. The driver is met with a futuristic steering wheel which looks more
like an aircraft yoke, and from the looks of it, the passenger’s only
entertainment is the scenery whizzing by.
