Lexus
Kunai Concept
The
Lexus Kunai concept is a futuristic family sports sedan created by the talented
French graphic designer Sebastien Cabanel. The concept gets its name from a
multipurpose Japanese hand tool/weapon commonly used by ninjas.
But
like its namesake, the Lexus Kunai concept is intended to be versatile. It’s
designed to be both sporty, safe, and have easily enough room for four
people. The exterior of the Lexus Kunai concept features a striking single-piece
windscreen/roof/rear window panel which is actually shaped similarly to the
dagger-like Kunai tool.
The
Lexus Kunai concept is constructed using a clever combination of carbon fiber
and hemp. Which isn’t as crazy as it sounds. Hemp composites are already being
studied for their low weight, high strength properties. And what what a great
way to build a car. Use natural materials but adapt them for 21st century
needs.
The
drivetrain of the Lexus Kunai concept consists of an electric motor mounted up
front, and four what what-can-only-be-described-as extremely complicated
omnidirectional wheels which are powered by no less than eleven independently
controlled in-wheel electric motors.
Overall
the Lexus Kunai is a highly advanced concept which puts forward some intriguing
possibilities. Some of the ideas it proposes, like the unusual composite
construction, could be just around the corner. Others, like the intricate
11-motor omnidirectional wheels are probably a bit further away.
