Lexus Reveals CT 200h Aerodynamic Highlights

The Lexus brand keeps revealing future highlights of it CT 200h model, with the latest details concerning the aerodynamic efficiency of the car and its full hybrid powertrain. After struggling to perfect the ideal driving position, Lexus engineers used extensive computer aided design and wind tunnel testing to achieve the lowest coefficient of drag in the small luxury car class – Cd 0.28.

“Every aspect of the upper bodywork has been detailed for airflow management. The deep front bumper, sharply sculpted front air dam, optimised bumper corner angles and door mirrors styled like those of the ultra-exclusive LFA supercar, have been designed to smooth the flow of air over the front and down the sides of the vehicle, minimising turbulence in the wheelarches,” a company statement reads.

The flow of air away from the rear of the CT 200h is carefully controlled by the tapered shape of the cabin sides, a deep roof spoiler, aerodynamic fins at the corners of the rear windows and the sharp, near-vertical junction of the rear wing and bumper.

Equal attention has been paid to underbody airflow management, minimising the vehicle’s coefficient of lift to secure optimum fuel efficiency and handling stability.

The aerodynamic underbody elements include a front lower absorber, under covers for the engine, centre floor, tank side and rear floor, front and rear wheelarch spats and rocker mouldings. Diffuser fins have been added to the front under cover, specific installation of the main exhaust silencer and shape of the rear bumper cover.

The Lexus CT 200h will be unveiled at the 2010 Paris Auto Show this October and will go on sale in early 2011.