|  |  | | Lexus LS 460 is built on a sophisticated new platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling, utilizing the abundant powertrain output with smooth acceleration. This is accomplished via a new production-control network that can trace the precision of the body and subassembly based on the design data. All completed vehicles off the line are purpose driven by a skilled test driver to confirm riding comfort and steering response.
A front and rear multilink suspension system with superior adaptability to unevenness in road surfaces was adopted on Lexus LS 460. Optional external cylinder-restriction air springs were developed to smoothly absorb shock, achieving ride comfort without roll sensation or vibration due to road conditions. An optional all-new air suspension control system achieves superb vehicle posture and stable driving performance with minimal pitching and rolling. Lexus LS 460 comes with standard 18-inch, nine-spoke aluminum alloy wheels and all-season tires.
Lexus LS 460's newly developed Electric Power Steering (EPS) incorporates a large output brushless motor with improved precision of the reduction gear, increased motor-driving voltage and efficiency of the controller. It offers a smooth steering feel that supports the adoption of the multilink suspension and large-diameter tires. The EPS motor power was increased to create a steering feel that responds to the driver's touch and provides a responsive feel when cornering.
Integrated into the steering-gear housing on vehicles with the air-suspension option, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) optimizes the steering-gear ratio according to vehicle speed to help enhance responsiveness and driver control. VGRS also partners with a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, making minor adjustments to front-wheel angle for improved control in challenging road conditions.
LS 460 features a lightweight body that has a strong resistance to torsion, contributing to the sedan's performance and fuel economy. It was designed to provide a comfortable space without generating or transmitting vibration. In order to achieve a body structure that contributes to the driving performance, spot welds in the door corner areas were increased and laser welding was implemented for reinforcement, increasing the body's strength against torsion. In order to confirm and guarantee precision at each step of the process, an innovative production-control measurement system verifies each measurement with the design data, creating a body constructed without unnecessary gaps.
Advanced Active / Passive Safety Technologies Act As One
In an effort to create a more intelligent vehicle, Lexus has combined advanced active and passive safety technology into one integrated system. This achieves rapid response that helps predict situations and implement actions, which will help to assist the driver and passengers at an even higher level.
Among the new active features on LS 460 is the next generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability system, which integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle. Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system anticipates the onset of a vehicle skid or slide while cornering and then helps correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. The new VDIM system gathers data from more sources, processed earlier and faster than in previous designs, which helps make the system even more seamless and effective. VSC can also be turned off by the driver via the Trac Off button.
Overall, there are eight standard airbags, with maximum of eleven airbags with option packages.
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