A look into Lexus’ Aerodynamics lab is like visiting Superman’s fortress of solitude

By Alexander Kalogianni February 19, 2015

Wind tunnel testing on cars is nothing new, being a large part in developing the aerodynamics of cars for decades and, though we talk about a car’s slipperiness all the time, we rarely stop to ask just what it takes to test these things out. On its official blog, Lexus takes us on a tour of its aerodynamics laboratory at the research and development headquarters in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, that is as amazing as it is bizarre.

The facility is fairly new, opening up just two years ago. In it’s 22-meter wide, 260 meter long looping test tunnel is a wind turbine capable of generating hurricane-level wind speeds of up to 155 mph. At one section of a tunnel, the air is redirected to a testing room by a set of precisely angled metal slats.

Lexus Aerodynamics Lab — Image used with permission by copyright holder

“We had the structural details fine-tuned, so the layout of the walls, the selection of materials, and location of vents and nozzles, all help make this lab one of the most reliable research facilities in the world,” said Toshiyuki Murayama, group manager of thermal management and aerodynamics at Lexus.

Lexus Aerodynamics Lab — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Air is directed through the slats to a testing room, where engineers evaluate the flow of air around a vehicle, visualizing it clearly with streams of smoke. The car is set on a turntable weighing scale, as the engineers monitor how the flow of air effects the weight distribution. The turnable also functions as a rolling road so they can simulate how air flows around the wheels while they’re at speed instead of just sitting statically.

Lexus Aerodynamics Lab — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Noise reduction tests are also being conducted as the Lexus engineers monitor the car from a safe observation chamber. If certain adjustments need to be made, they can tweak certain aspects on site or even temporarily affix stabilizer fins made quickly with a 3D printer.

“Every part of the car is designed within the margin of a millimetre,” explains Lexus RC F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi. “We go through every possible layout of the ducts or the sizing of aerodynamic parts. All the details and conditions must be taken into consideration. It is no easy job.”

No, but it sure looks like a fascinating one.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Alexander Kalogianni

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Alex K is an automotive writer based in New York. When not at his keyboard or behind the wheel of a car, Alex spends a lot of…

Cars

Best dash cam deals: Protect your ride from just $39

Rexing V1 dash cam

There are a lot of difficult drivers on the road, and a great way to protect yourself from potential insurance issues is with a dash cam. A dash cam will ensure everything that goes on while you’re driving is recorded. The best dash cams can typically record in multiple directions, making them a great option for Uber drivers who want to keep their customers safe and protect themselves from potential legal issues as well. You can save big on a new dash cam right now, as there are quite a few dash cam deals worth shopping. Below you’ll find what we feel are the best dash cam deals to choose from right now, so read onward for more details on how to save.
70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S -- $40, was $50

The 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S is the cheapest option in this list, but it doesn't feel like it because it's packed with features. The dash cam, which supports microSD memory cards of up to 64GB, records footage at 1080p Full HD resolution with night vision capabilities thanks to its Sony IMX307 image processor and f/2.2 aperture. With its built-in G sensor, the dash cam will detect an accident and lock footage to prevent overwrites. You can use voice commands to ask the dash cam to take photos or to start recording videos, and you can use its accompanying app to watch real-time footage and to download files to your phone.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024