Thursday, May 31, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Toyota Leads the Way in Green Buildings
**Extensive native vegetation rain gardens and swales treat 100 percent of parking lot and roof storm water runoff, removing 95 percent of pollutants
**Automatic lighting controls and use of natural light reduce electrical demand by 24.5 percent (12kw)
**High efficiency HVAC system consumes 50 percent less energy in cooling mode
**100 percent of installed wood products carry Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, ensuring sustainable harvest practices
**Dual flush toilets, waterless urinals and efficient fixtures reduce water consumption by 66 percent, saving 49,800 gallons of water annually
**100 percent of annual energy use (176 kwh/yr) is offset by investment in certified renewable energy development In addition to the Kansas City Regional Technical Training Center, 10 Toyota/Lexus U.S. facilities have achieved various levels of LEED certification since 2003. Ranging from office space to vehicle distribution centers, these facilities represent Toyota’s continued efforts to improve the design and efficiency of all operations while reducing the overall environmental footprint. A complete listing of LEED certified facilities is found below. Toyota sparked an industry trend in 2006, with construction of the first LEED certified automotive dealership in the country. Patt Lobb Toyota of McKinney, Texas, achieved Silver LEED certification and paved the way for additional dealers to follow. To date, 18 Toyota/Lexus dealerships have achieved LEED certification, including the nation's only Platinum LEED certified dealership, Kendall Toyota in Eugene, Ore. An additional nine dealerships are complete and awaiting final certification (see complete listing below). “Toyota and Lexus dealers have truly seized the opportunity to ‘green’ their businesses,” said Ernest Bastien, TMS vice president of retail market development, “and by doing so are demonstrating environmental leadership in their communities. Dealers are also quickly re-couping their initial investments and realizing the long term financial benefits of building more efficient dealerships.” LEED dealership construction was spurred by Toyota’s ECO Image U.S.A. II initiative which assists dealers with construction of facilities that emphasize efficiency and reduce overall environmental impacts. LEED certified dealers are seeing a 26 percent reduction in energy costs per square foot per year. In addition, quick return on investment for sustainable building materials, efficient lighting and other LEED elements are confirming the economic benefits of building green. The LEED Green Building Rating System™ is a third-party green building certification program designed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The U.S. Green Building Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to the expansion of green building practices and the LEED program. LEED projects accumulate points/credits in various environmental categories. Point totals determine the level of certification, ranging from ‘Certified’ to ‘Platinum.’
Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom
Thank you to the authors of these glowing reviews! Keep up the great work team!
- To whom it may concern, beside the fabulous and reliable vehicles Lexus offer, the services are what made me stay a loyal costumer, and came back for another Lexus vehicle. I truly believe all of Lexus of Orlando employees are top notch, but the one employee that stood out the most among you guy’s best is Wayne Kerr. He's professionalism, and well manner approaches to solve issues are to the utmost perfection; Mr. Wayne would go relentlessly above and beyond to solve and answer any question I may have. In my view, services like that are only seen through the United States military branches and I would know because I'm a sergeant in our great United States Army. To make it short and simple, thank you Lexus of Orlando for giving employment to such gifted, and well manner employees. -Goarmy3rdID
- nothing all i can say about Lyndon, he is one of a kind service specialist he is an all in guy when it comes to auto repair - very talented & a great person, keep it up & see you on my next visit, thank you. -Tassmendoza
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Lexus Brings Sunshine To The Pacific Northwest
Instead of just shipping the Pearl Yellow LFA to the Pacific Northwest, one person was commissioned to bring the Pearl Yellow LFA. Paul Williamsen, National Manager of Lexus College was chosen for this task and the Pearl Yellow LFA was commissioned to be brought up to the Exotics @ Redmond Town Center event and their annual "Chateau Staycation" Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery. This is actually the second LFA visit as Paul was in charge of showing Black LFA #032 around for its inaugural visit to the Evergreen State last year.
When Paul started his trip from Oregon, a storm started to come through, but luckily the LFA's "WET" Drive Mode Select feature ensures max grip to the Bridgestone Potenza S001 tires once the roadway gets slick. As the clouds began to part, Paul continued north on Interstate 5 with the Lexus sunshine car.
It is true the LFA is the only production Lexus vehicle without cruise control! So how does one manage to keep the speed within limits? Paul managed to tame the 552 hp beast within the speed limits to Seattle. It's unlikely he experienced any drowsiness going a leisurely 70mph on the highway, but if it did occur, all he had to do is crank up the sounds on the 12 speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system. Or better yet, a quick mash of the throttle sends 400 hz of Yamaha tuned sound into the cabin allowing for pure sensory satisfaction. Who needs caffeine when you have F1 inspired sounds to tickle the eardrums!
Exotics@RTC is a Saturday morning gathering of the brightest and loudest super cars in the Evergreen State. Our own member "TommyJames" is one of the key organizers for the Exotics event which pulls in hundreds of super cars from all over the area.
To sum it up, Lexus brought the Sunshine to the Pacific Northwest...well not quite, but we would like to think so. This Memorial Day gathering with the Exotics@RTC was a success. Great weather and awesome cars and the LFA. You can't ask for anything more.
Courtesy of Club Lexus
Thank you Sue and Carrie for sharing these glowing reviews with us! Keep up the great work team!
- This place is top notch! Granted, if you are paying for a Lexus vehicle it should be! They assign you a service consultant so you deal with the same person each time. Their waiting area is clean, quiet, spacious & filled with ample seating, food, drinks & Ipads to use. They send you an email so you can track your vehicle's status on your Smartphone & every single person you walk past, greets you with a hello/good morning, etc. Their attention to detail & customer service goes a long way with this reviewer!!! -Carrie
- The service received at Lexus of Orlando is superior to any Lexus dealer I have visited!! I drive from Tampa because of the personal attention and professional service I receive. Their dealership far exceeds those in Tampa and Clearwater and I am very thankful for my service representative. He always remembers me and makes me feel part of the Lexus family. He goes above and beyond to help me with special circumstances and I truly appreciate it!! The drive is well worth the level of service I get in Orlando! -Sue
Lexus Planning 2014 GS Coupe?
Courtesy of InsideLine.com
Friday, May 25, 2012
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Driving Force
There were two focus points for me. One was to discover not just what ES buyers wanted, but what they were like. I wanted to understand them, such as their family, living environment, hobbies, shopping styles, and how they use their cars. To achieve this, I visited people’s homes as much as possible to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of their lifestyles, family makeup, and their values. In this way, I could get a much clearer picture of their needs.
So what did Lexus drivers say when you asked them about changing the ES?
Many North American customers showed an interest in a sportier look, while customers in some other markets were more attracted to a solid, stately presence. Many customers indicated a desire for more rear-cabin legroom, which implies a larger vehicle size. In the end I think we found ways to satisfy nearly all these demands.
In concrete terms, we extended the wheelbase to allow for a longer cabin, but shortened the front and rear overhangs so there was only a minor increase in total vehicle size. This enabled us to provide more space in the cabin, while maintaining comfort. We wanted a feeling of “snug roominess.” We also lowered the body, which gives us better aerodynamic performance, and, with the wheels set farther out, contributes to the wide and low stance that gives the new ES a sportier appearanceWere there many changes in design over the course of the 2013 ES development?
The whole design process took around three years. But after we came up with the original design we didn’t waver at all. The side silhouette is basically the same as our original design sketches. This certainly stands out in my memory.Were there any points of discussion—any aspects of the vehicle’s design that the team weighed back and forth?
The angle of the headlamps was a subject of much debate. I felt that a sharper angle was too aggressive and stood out too much, so I recommended lowering it a little. This gives us, I feel, the best balance between the grille and bumper. I’m happy to say that, when the design was approved, the designers sent me an acrylic, crystallized model of the car as a token of their appreciation.
Interior lighting is clearly important in all Lexus models. How does this element influence the ambience of the new ES?
I felt that all the interior features looked great in the daytime, but I wanted to make certain that the new ES was cool and elegant at night. Working with designers and engineers, we created an ambient lighting experience using coordinated LED white lights. These produce contrasts among the vehicle’s interior elements and help provide a feeling of luxury.
Yes, this is actually a special interest of mine. Before I began working on vehicle development I worked in the Electronics Engineering Division, so I was interested in seeing some of our advanced safety features debut in the ES. This new ES is the first Lexus model to offer the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)[1] with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), an advanced safety feature. I was pleased that we could also make available the Lane Departure Alert (LDA), which shares a camera with the Auto High Beam (AHB) system. That was a great innovation, because separate cameras are usually required.
It was a big decision for Lexus to introduce a hybrid ES. What was your personal thinking there?
After considering demand and environment changes five or 10 years from now, I was certain that there would be a need for a hybrid ES. We called for cross-department cooperation to help make it happen. And while this was partly based on a personal conviction that a hybrid model was necessary, it was also backed up by strong demand witnessed in worldwide customer interviews.
The ES has some new aerodynamic features, new shock absorbers, and a revised suspension system. What does this all mean for the vehicle’s handling?
Significant all-around enhancements, basically. For example, enhanced aerodynamic performance increases the evenness of the ride and helps provide excellent road feel for comfort and security, particularly on the highway. Additionally, aero stabilizing fins have been added on the doorframe covers and on the rear lamps. These fins create air vortices at the sides of the body that help stabilize the vehicle. Improvements in shock absorber performance also contribute to enhanced ride comfort, while greater body rigidity better suppresses high-frequency vibration. And that means less noise, a smoother ride, and sharper handling.
Courtesy of Lexus Magazine
Total Car Score Announces Top Scoring Car Awards for 2012.
The Top Scoring Car Awards cover all major vehicle categories for model year 2012. The best car awards are based on Total Car Score’s ranking formula, which offers a comprehensive evaluation of autos in every segment. A vehicle’s Total Car Score is its combination of scores from all the top automotive review and rating sites. These car reviews and ratings are translated into a single Total Car Score that allows visitors to quickly and easily compare cars.
“We are proud to present the first Top Scoring Car Awards from Total Car Score,” said Karl Brauer, founder and CEO of Total Car Score. “What sets our awards apart is that they are based on an independent and transparent scoring system. Each award is the culmination of authoritative opinion from across the automotive industry, and each is determined by raw data without editorializing.”
Ford and Honda Top Automakers on List
Ford earned the most Total Car Score awards with a top-scoring vehicle in five of the 20 categories. Honda followed closely with four. Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volkswagen all had three winners each. “These brands all managed to earn a top score in multiple vehicle categories,” remarked Brauer. “That’s an impressive accomplishment given the highly competitive nature of today’s automotive marketplace.”
Top Three Overall Scoring Vehicles
“It’s worth noting that the top three vehicles with the highest Total Car Score, when every 2012 model is taken into account, are the Lexus LS, Hyundai Sonata, and Infiniti M,” said Brauer. “Clearly these models are universally praised by the industry in terms of quality, design and safety.”
Total Car Score’s “Top Scoring Car Awards” name the top-scoring vehicle in 20 major automotive segments. In segments where the difference between the first and second ranked car is less than two points, Total Car Score awarded two winners. The Top Scoring Award winners for model year 2012 are:
Top Scoring 2012 Economy Car:
2012 Honda Fit, Total Car Score: 81.58
2012 Kia Soul, Total Car Score: 81.27
Top Scoring 2012 Compact Sedan/Wagon:
2012 Volkswagen Golf, Total Car Score: 83.29
2012 Ford Focus, Total Car Score: 82.38
Top Scoring 2012 Midsize Sedan/Wagon:
2012 Hyundai Sonata, Total Car Score: 87.77
2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid, Total Car Score: 86.31
Top Scoring 2012 Large Sedan/Wagon:
2012 Buick LaCrosse/LaCrosse eAssist Hybrid, Total Car Score: 85.01
2012 Toyota Avalon, Total Car Score: 83.82
Top Scoring 2012 Sport Coupe/Convertible:
2012 Ford Mustang, Total Car Score: 80.96
2012 Mini Cooper, Total Car Score: 79.02
Top Scoring 2012 Minivan:
2012 Honda Odyssey, Total Car Score: 83.96
Top Scoring 2012 Compact SUV/Crossover:
2012 Honda CR-V, Total Car Score: 83.41
2012 Subaru Forester, Total Car Score: 81.59
Top Scoring 2012 Midsize SUV/Crossover:
2012 Volkswagen Touareg, Total Car Score: 81.91
2012 Kia Sorento, Total Car Score: 81.78
Top Scoring 2012 Large SUV/Crossover:
2012 Chevrolet Traverse, Total Car Score: 84.87
2012 Ford Flex, Total Car Score: 84.44
Top Scoring 2012 Small Truck:
2012 Honda Ridgeline, Total Car Score: 78.64
Top Scoring 2012 Large Truck:
2012 Ford F-Series, Total Car Score: 79.67
2012 Toyota Tundra, Total Car Score: 79.09
Top Scoring 2012 Entry Luxury Sedan/Wagon:
2012 Cadillac CTS, Total Car Score: 86.49
Top Scoring 2012 Luxury Sedan/Wagon:
2012 Infiniti M, Total Car Score: 86.95
2012 Hyundai Genesis, Total Car Score: 85.83
Top Scoring 2012 Ultra Luxury Car:
2012 Lexus LS/LS Hybrid, Total Car Score: 89.08/88.41
Top Scoring 2012 Entry Luxury SUV/Crossover:
2012 Cadillac SRX, Total Car Score: 83.01
2012 Audi Q5, Total Car Score: 82.49
Top Scoring 2012 Luxury SUV/Crossover:
2012 Lexus RX Hybrid, Total Car Score: 85.13
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Total Car Score: 83.36
Top Scoring 2012 Ultra Luxury SUV/Crossover:
2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, Total Car Score: 79.69
2012 Cadillac Escalade, Total Car Score: 77.85
Top Scoring 2012 High Performance:
2012 Volkswagen Golf R, Total Car Score: 84.64
2012 Ford Taurus SHO, Total Car Score: 83.22
Top Scoring 2012 Luxury High Performance:
2012 Infiniti IPL G, Total Car Score: 85.21
2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, Total Car Score: 83.36
Top Scoring 2012 Exotic High Performance:
2012 Audi R8, Total Car Score: 79.91
Total Car Score’s Methodology To Compare Cars
Total Car Score utilizes the ratings from multiple automotive authorities and converts them into a simple percentage, representing what the car could have scored from each source versus what it did score. The average number from all of these sources represents the vehicle’s Total Car Score. A car must have a rating from at least 5 sources to qualify as a validated Total Car Score. Recently dubbed the Rotten Tomatoes of car review sites by Forbes, Total Car Score aims to make car buying easier by giving shoppers a clear “industry assessment” of a vehicle in an easy-to-use format.
Courtesy of TotalCarSource.com
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Community Involvement: Hands Up For Haiti
As part of our community involvement we recently donated a Rav4 to Hands Up For Haiti, a medical humanitarian organization committed to improving the quality of health care in Haiti. The Rav4 enabled the team to go to 6 different locations delivering care and supplies.
“Without the car, we can usually only work in 2 or 3 locations on a trip. It significantly has increased our ability and effectiveness in supporting our teams when they are in Haiti. Travel in Haiti is not always reliable or safe, so this enables us to eliminate both of those obstacles.” – Dr. Lacy
From the ES production line
Lexus’ new “Rough Road Tester”: A crucial part of Lexus quality control involves testing the quietness and the vibration levels of each vehicle under rough road conditions. Testing has traditionally been performed on an outdoor test track, but the ES plant recently developed a mechanical Rough Road Tester, and installed it at the end of the assembly line. Using adjustable drums with raised and indented areas, the tester can mimic various road surfaces, such as cobblestone streets. In this way it can be tuned to allow detection of abnormal sounds in different environments. It can even simulate specific driving conditions, such as frozen roads.
Fingertips are everywhere: A guiding philosophy at the Miyata plant is the use of human senses to detect subtle imperfections, so people are constantly running their hands over the ES models looking for any small misalignments between body parts. Toshio Yoneoka, the General Manager of the plant, tells us that the workers who inspect the alignment of parts, like the fender and hood, are constantly training their hands and minds off the line. “Every two hours they run their fingers along a sample section of perfectly aligned parts, to memorize the correct ‘feeling’ of those parts.”
It’s quiet: The sensory-oriented approach is complemented by the Miyata plant’s “Clean and Silent” initiative. The traditional chain-driven production line has been replaced with a long and winding friction-driven conveyance system, which has dramatically reduced ambient noise. Making the plant as quiet as possible makes it easier for technicians to detect abnormal noises and hear auditory feedback at various production stages.
It’s super clean: Additionally, the plant’s extreme cleanliness minimizes the adhesion of airborne particles during the pressing and painting processes. Since even a single piece of dust can affect ES production, plant paint workers wear anti-static clothing. And, at both the paint and press sections, screens covered with flowing curtains of water help catch dust particulates around the maintenance area.
Plenty of precision technology: For inspections, human senses are, of course, complemented by advanced high-tech sensors. For example, imperfections in the stamping process are checked and corrected using a specially designed thermal imaging system. There’s also a new “battery robot”: The assembly line handles the new 2012 ES Hybrid (as well as the gas-only version), so to keep things timed to the second during production, Lexus engineers developed and implemented a new robot that quickly transports and inserts each ES Hybrid's battery.
Courtesy of Lexus.com
Precious Cargo: Sending LFA on its Way
“That’s such a muscle sound,” Tilo says. “That’s every man’s dream, being in a car like this.”
Tilo helps make that dream come true for new owners of the Lexus LFA. He’s part of a painstaking delivery process developed by Toyota Logistics Services (TLS) for a car with an MSRP of $375,000.
To safeguard the supercar, each LFA arrives at the port of Long Beach in an individual 20-foot shipping container with pristine white walls and a wooden floor. However, the car itself is not wrapped in a protective cover. “The constant rubbing of any material can mar the paint and create swirls,” says Terrell Singletary, TLS highway transportation logistics administrator. “The container rides in the belly of the ship to keep it away from any saltwater overspray.”
Because TLS Long Beach isn’t equipped to offload containers, they’re trucked to a Carson warehouse operated by Fujitrans, a Toyota partner. That’s where Fujitrans supervisor Tilo preps the cars.
Like others who help deliver the LFA, Tilo completed specialized driver training. After all, Singletary notes, “There’s a three-step process just to start the vehicle.”
Despite his training, Tilo remembers sweating out the ceremonial arrival of the first LFA in January 2011, which was witnessed by about 75 Toyota and Lexus guests. “You could have filled a five-gallon bucket with our sweat,” he says. “Just the thought of handling a car of that price…”
But he and co-worker Orlando Salazar are now comfortable, though extremely careful, handling the cars that arrive most Mondays. Inside each container, an LFA crouches on a pink pallet. Salazar uses a crowbar to pry off the wooden blocks nailed to the floor of the container to keep the pallet from shifting during its voyage from Japan.
Then he fires up an orange Toyota forklift and slides the forks under the pallet. He slowly backs up, gently pulling the pallet from the container. As the car emerges, Tilo peers intently at the paint, searching for blemishes. The men then remove the blue straps attaching the wheels to the pallet. They hook two pink ramps onto the pallet, covering the bolts with more white cloths. As Tilo slowly backs the car down the ramps, Salazar crouches behind him, waving him back until the low-slung vehicle grips the floor.
The LFA is now ready to be driven into an enclosed Toyota Transport truck for the short journey back to TLS Long Beach for processing and a Monroney label. Then it’s on to a dealership, where each LFA is met by a Lexus area representative. One car may ride alone on a short trip, while two or three cars share a truck for a long haul (the primary markets are California, Florida and the Northeast). It can be very demanding,” Singletary says. “Customers are paying a lot of money for this car, and they want it as soon as possible. To meet certain delivery dates, we’ve used a team of drivers so the truck doesn’t have to stop.”
So far, TLS has delivered 115 of the 173 LFAs allocated to the United States. “There has been no transportation damage,” he says.
Sixteen months after the first delivery, Singletary still feels a sense of pride when he gazes at an LFA. “Every time I see one, it’s still ‘Wow!’” he says.
And yes, he feels a bit of affection for the LFAs he helps send on their way. “There’s another one,” he says, “getting ready to go out into the world.”
Courtesy of ToyotaDriverSeat.com
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
2013 ES300h Signals Shift in Lexus Hybrid Philosophy
Historically Toyota has opted to use the gasoline-electric mix to deliver maximum fuel economy above all else – take the Prius as an example. Lexus, however, has instead used electricity as an added boost to its gasoline motors, providing additional power while retaining modest fuel economy. The result are cars like the GS450h, which delivers performance equal to that of a V8, but with V6 fuel efficiency. As well, there’s the flagship LS600h, with a 5.0-liter V8 engine mated to an electric motor and a total output of 428 hp. This car, boasted Lexus at the time, was intended to deliver V12 power but with V8 fuel economy.
The problem says Lexus ES and LS product planner Ketan Renade is that sales are extremely slow. “We did studies and focus groups and people said, ‘hybrid equals mpg’”, says Renade. “Cars with 400 and 500 hp are great, but no one is buying them.”The new ES300h is the first product to result from the new hybrid philosophy at Lexus. Unlike the recently revealed GS, which uses an electric motor to boost performance, the ES300h mates a 4-cylinder with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system to deliver 200 hp and 39 mpg combined. That’s well below the gasoline V6-powered ES350, which delivers 268 hp, although it’s also a 50 percent improvement in fuel economy.The ES isn’t the exception either, but the new rule, with Renade nearly confirming a decision to axe the LS600 in favor of a less-potent hybrid powertrain. Speaking with AutoGuide at the recent ES launch, he said that, “If we did a future hybrid Lexus LS, it would go V6 hybrid.”Will Lexus deliver a future LS hybrid? Most certainly, especially as Lexus only sells hybrid models in Europe where it’s trying desperately to win over buyers from the German brands. That said, look for an LS450h in the not-to-distant future.Courtesy of AutoGuide.com
Monday, May 21, 2012
Lexus LFA Finishes 15th Overall in 24h Nürburgring Race
Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast
Friday, May 18, 2012
2013 Lexus GS Earns IIHS Top Safety Pick
To earn a Top Safety Pick designation, a car, truck or utility vehicle must achieve a top score of "Good" in front, side and rear impact crash tests. The IIHS test features taller cement crash barriers to simulate a collision with a larger vehicle and the front impact test is conducted at a speed of 40 miles per hour. The vehicle must also feature stability control and a roof that maintains integrity even at a weight equal to or greater than four times that of the vehicle. The IIHS reports that the GS could withstand 4.88 times its 3,715 pound weight.
The GS joins the RX and the CT 200h as the third Lexus model to net a Top Safety Pick.
Courtesy of AutoBlog.com
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Thank you to the author of this glowing review! Great job Dominic!
- Dominic is "extremely" customer focused! I have been dealing with Dominic for nearly 2 years and he makes me feel such a valued customer! I would just like to say "thanks Dominic for your great service, it is really appreciated"! TinaJoanC1
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Sustainable Steering: Lexus' New Bamboo Steering Wheel
Now, wherever you grip it, there's no stress for your hands.”
"When you're comfortable at the wheel, you don't feel tired even after a long drive," agrees the Lexus Meister. "I designed this wheel to give the driver a sense of security."
After a long and exhaustive development, Ozaki eventually pronounced himself satisfied with the shape. With typical Lexus thoroughness, he then revisited every other steering wheel parameter in search of further improvements. That resulted in a repositioning of the wheel towards the rear of the vehicle, an adjustment of telescopic range by 11 percent, and a two percent change in its angle.
"That last one might seem pretty minor," he says, "but you wouldn't believe the difference it makes." Even the stitching has been recessed so that it doesn't interfere with grip comfort.
But it's the bold, world-first use of bamboo that really grabs the attention. In fact, the choice is a perfectly logical combination of science and sensibility. Bamboo is dense and stable. It's also highly sustainable: some varieties can grow by 100 centimeters a day. Lexus-grade bamboo takes between three and four years to mature, still more than 10 times quicker than the 40 to 50 years taken by conventional woods.
Manufacturing the wheel is a challenging and very human-intensive process. Automotive wood specialists Miroku Techno Wood are based in Nankoku, in the Kochi prefecture of southern Japan.
They hand-pick bamboo trees for longitudinal splitting on a radial-blade cutter. These split sections are whittled down to form thin fillets.
After stress-processing and drying to achieve the exact moisture content, a stack of fillets is placed on a jig, laminated together using a high-frequency adhesion machine, and bent into a half-lifebelt shape. Four of these rough half-circle laminates are wrapped around either side of the top and bottom sections of the steering wheel "skeleton," where they're hand-planed, worked, and sanded into smooth tubular forms.
Final polishing to achieve Ozaki's ideal cross-sectional shape is done by hand. It's a highly skilled operation, tackled only by craftspeople with the right level of experience. The final gloss stage delivers a gentle texture, perfect driver feel, and a well-deserved "thank you" for your hands.
Courtesy Lexus-Global.com magazine
Baseball Knights Earn Win No. 40
- With the two home runs in the contest, UCF has 38 as a team this year
- Friedrich notched his 20th double of the year. The all-time record for UCF is 27 by Dustin Brisson (2000)
- Madrid appeared in relief for the 27th time this year, tying him for fifth all-time in a season at UCF
- The 13 runs were the most scored since the Knights topped FAMU, 16-4, on April 10
Courtesy of University of Central Florida
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Thank you to the author of this glowing review! Keep up the great work Lyndon!
- The "check engine" light started flashing on our RX350. Since we had purchased a Platinum extended warranty, I called Lexus of Orlando for assistance. A flat bed arrived less than 60 minutes later, and the vehicle was in the service bay soon after that. I expected a call that afternoon to say that the car was ready to be picked up and was totally covered by the warranty. Instead, Lyndon Walsh called to say that the repairs would take 5 days and cost over $4000- not covered by the Lexus warranty. As unbelievable as this sounded, Lyndon very calmly and professionally described the situation as rodent damage, and then recommended a course of action to contact our Auto Insurance agent and inquire about comprehensive coverage. Within an hour, all details had been worked out, and we were provided with a courtesy car so that we could complete an important trip the next day. Lyndon and dealer emails then kept us informed with every step of the repair process so we knew the status of the repairs as they were completed. The repairs were completed when promised, and appear to be 100% successful.Lyndon's professional and positive attitude was greatly appreciated. He was always on top of the situation, and made us feel like we were the most important customer there. It has been refreshing to have all of our expectations exceeded. We will definitely return. -nmumbert
2013 Lexus RX 350 Review
The Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h have a lot going for them. They're understated and comfortable, yet somehow also iconic, and they've found a loyal following among those who want plush comfort, plenty of practicality, and standout tech and entertainment features in a package that won't be seen as fiscally or environmentally irresponsible (these models' long-established reputation for reliability and dealer service factor in, no doubt). In today's image-conscious world, they're upscale but not ostentatious.
For the first time since the current third-generation RX models bowed, for 2010, they've received a light refresh. The 2013 Lexus RX models get a version of the new 'spindle grille' that's already made its debut in the GS sport sedans, which makes it just a little menacing in our opinion, while all the snub-nosed, blunt-shouldered purposefulness--crossed with soft elegance--of the current generation's design remains. LED running lamps, new rear taillights, and a few new colors are the extent of the exterior changes, while inside there's a new steering wheel, contrast stitching for the leather, and a redesigned center console.
New for 2013 on front-wheel-drive models is a Sport Appearance Package that includes a unique front bumper, halogen headlamps and superchrome-finished 19-inch wheels.
If there's a clear pronouncement to make about the RX 350 and 450h, it's that performance takes second stage to comfort and luxury. While parents or empty nesters will find the RX plenty responsive in either guise, it's seldom exciting, edgy, or nimble, and there's a muted feeling to all of the driving inputs. Power comes from a 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive an option. Even with the heavier AWD system, the RX 350 steps off the line quickly and smoothly, and shifts during passing are quick yet downright seamless. Hybrid models perform nearly as well--in an absolute sense, though they manage to mute out even more of the outside world through the steering and brakes.
The 2013 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h are plush, yet not over-the-top lavish, and just a short ride in one is enough to see why it's such a popular choice for upscale realtors who don't want to look to filthy rich. There's a certain wholesomeness about the practical design, and its versatile seating is roomy and accommodating for four adults; at the same time, it's supremely smooth and quiet, with the passenger experience about as refined as you'll find in flagship luxury sedans like Lexus' own LS. Our only gripe remains that the standard front seats are a little flat and have odd back contouring, while the ride can be sharper (though still not rough) with the 19-inch wheel options.
Lexus vehicles have a reputation for being not just refined and comfortable, but also for being exceptionally well-equipped. That's definitely the case here in the 2013 RX 350 and RX 450h; you'll find a comprehensive list of comfort and convenience features, while options are pretty much limited to interior upgrades and top-notch infotainment systems. Major options include leather; a USB port; navigation with real-time traffic; a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; and a superb Mark Levinson sound system. The Remote Touch controller remains a mandatory part of the interface that we're conflicted about, but nearly everyone will like that the new Enform system enables apps for Pandora streaming audio and other information services.
Courtesy of The Car Connection
Monday, May 14, 2012
Voting for Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good Opens This Morning at 10 am ET/7 am PT
Five nonprofit organizations will be profiled each day. Registered Facebook users will be able to vote once daily for the nonprofit they think can do the most good with a new vehicle. The organization with the most votes at the end of the day will win a new vehicle. The four runners-up will each receive a $1,000 cash grant from Toyota.
100 Cars for Good voting will be open every day from 10:00 am ET/7:00 am PT to 12:00 am ET/9:00 pm PT. Voting will continue through Tuesday, August 21.
“At Toyota, we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across America,” said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Motor Sales. “Over the past 20 years, Toyota has contributed more than half a billion dollars to nonprofits throughout the U.S. 100 Cars for Good allows us to build on that commitment in new ways, putting the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ as we work to help community organizations make an even bigger impact. We wish all of this year’s finalists the best of luck.”
The 500 finalists for 100 Cars for Good represent all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Profiles of all of this year’s finalists can be found at www.100carsforgood.com.
Winning nonprofits will be able to choose from one of six Toyota models: Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.
To help participating nonprofits with their 100 Cars for Good campaigns – and to help them develop lasting digital marketing and social media skills that are critical to today’s nonprofits – Toyota has provided each finalist with a toolkit that includes a digital video camera, training materials and free online advertising credits. The company is providing social media training support online to the finalists as well.
Courtesy of ToyotaNewsroom
Action-Oriented Sedan With a Predatory Spirit
Courtesy of the New York Times
Friday, May 11, 2012
Thursday, May 10, 2012
2013 Lexus RX 350 - Review
Courtesy of the CarConnection
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
What gets 43 mpg, is fun to drive and spoils with luxury? The CT 200h. That's why it's named one of Kbb.com's 2012 Best Green Cars.
While exceptional fuel efficiency is a hybrid's primary objective, the Lexus CT 200h provides a fun-to-drive factor that few hybrids can equal. The CT 200h combines Lexus' award-winning quality with impressive fuel economy, dynamic handling and luxurious amenities at an enticing sub-$30,000 starting price.
Courtesy of KBB.com
Thank you to the author if this review for reflecting on your recent visit with us! Great job CJ!
- I have been a Lexus customer for 20 plus years and of all the excellent service I have experienced through my primary dealer in Marietta, Ga, Nalley Lexus, the best I have experienced was with CJ Kinch! I was put of town and had a need to have a problem on my GS 350 addressed so that I could return to Atlanta the next day and he worked me in, serviced the car and had it ready prior to the stated pickup time. He thoroughly answered all of many questions I had and offered alternatives to solving the ultimate service need. I love the Lexus product but the value proposition of Lexus is the reliability of the cars and service that stands behind the product. As a businessman, I know you can hire people and provide exceptional training as Lexus does, but you can t make them " care deeply" to do things right and to treat people with exceptional focus and top quadrant excellence--because these attributes are character and CJ is a model of what we are all trying to do and perpetuate in the service industry. Great job CJ and thank you!! -Ferrell
Toyota and Discovery Education Celebrate Teachers and Students for their Creativity in Promoting Teen Driver Safety
Courtesy of ToyotaNewsroom
Monday, May 7, 2012
The Lexus Stitching Dojo
Courtesy of LexusMagazine
Thank you to the author of this review for sharing this glowing review with us! Keep up the great work team!
- Everyone was absolutely friendly. They made my experience comfortable. They offer a loaner car if service exceeds 2 or 3 hours. I didn't take the loaner because it was extremely comfortable in the lounge with coffee, drinks, snacks, mini-sandwiches, tv, computer and more while you wait...very relaxing. I received very nice gifts in the mail which was a pleasant surprise. -Wotfel
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