F1 Sound for Lexus LFA

One of the most thrilling supercars that entered the automotive world this year is undoubtedly the Lexus LFA. Recently, the Lexus engineering team thought of making the LFA sound as nice as its performance figures do, so they worked on the acoustic of the V10 engine and exhaust system, resulting in an F1-inspired tune.

The acoustic team studied the noise made by a Formula 1 car at maximum revs, then applied detailed design features to create an exhaust note for the LFA that enhances the sensation of speed and acceleration.

According to Lexus, the main silencer is made of titanium and has a valve-actuated, dual-stage structure that channels the exhaust flow according to engine speed. Up to 3,000 rpm, the exhaust valve stays closed, routing the flow through multiple chambers, creating an unobtrusive note. Above 3,000 rpm the valve opens, allowing the exhaust to bypass these chambers and flow into a single resonance chamber, before exiting through the stacked trio of tailpipes.

The V10’s induction system was also modified. Up to 4,000 rpm it emits the engine’s primary firing frequency of 300 Hz. This reportedly changes to 400 to 500Hz as the engine revs climb to 6,000 rpm, and a peak is reached at 600 Hz as the engine increases towards its 9,000 rpm red line.

The air intake is made from a porous duct material to generate bass to mid-range tones. The LFA development team called this acoustic effect Resonated Complex Harmony.

The LFA will enter production towards the end of 2010, with deliveries of the 500 units to be completed over the following 2 years. Price for the new supercar is set at around 250,000 euros ($375,000).

The acoustic performance of the V10 engine can be heard by watching the video below.