Variable Gear Ratio System (VGRS) ensures that the faster you travel, the more assured and relaxing the steering becomes. Then, as speeds fall, the steering becomes progressively more responsive. VGRS works by optimally adjusting the steering gearing for the car's speed. For example, at very low speed, the gear ratio will be at its lowest, ensuring immediate responsiveness. It reduces the number of turns required to turn the wheel lock to lock, making tight parking manoeuvres or three point turns that much easier.
Variable Valve Timing – intelligent (VVT-i) is a computer-controlled system, which ensures that the engine breathes with maximum efficiency under all conditions. With VVT-i only the intake valve timing is variable, while with dual VVT-i, both the intake and exhaust valve timing is varied automatically.
This highly advanced technology not only varies the amount of air the engine needs to suit different conditions, it also ensures the most efficient fuel burn. The result is maximum power generation, better fuel economy, lower emissions and improved throttle responses.
Another world first for Lexus is Variable Valve Timing - intelligent Electric (VVT-iE) – an electrically controlled variable intake valve timing system. Using an electric motor to move the valves, rather than the hydraulic pressure of conventional systems, VVT-iE is faster to respond and gives greater engine flexibility. This improves torque and fuel economy over a wide range of speeds.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) pro-actively networks all of the vehicles dynamic control systems and applies them to optimum effect.
With many conventional cars, the various safety and control systems act independently. With VDIM, all the active safety systems are networked together. Vehicle performance data, including wheel rotation, brake pressure and body movement, is provided by a host of strategically positioned sensors. VDIM constantly analyses this data to anticipate and correct potentially difficult situations. It does this seamlessly, by making progressive adjustments, often applying different systems simultaneously and by varying degrees. This results in optimal dynamic performance.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) can help prevent loss of control of the car in certain situations, such as if you enter a corner too quickly or you encounter slippery conditions in a bend. Sensors continuously monitor and cross-reference vehicle speed, steering angle, yaw rate and deceleration. The instant VSC calculates that the driver is about to lose control of the car, it will apply various stability and safety systems to varying degrees. In a skid, for example, the system will judiciously apply the brakes or reduce power to help enable the driver to regain control of the car.
For your safety and convenience, voice command can be used in certain Lexus models to control a number of systems. A button on the steering wheel activates the sophisticated software, which currently recognises a select number of words in English, German or French. This means you can control the satellite navigation, air conditioning, audio system and phone, without taking your hands from the steering wheel. Voice command software is being developed continuously. Please consult your local Lexus Centre regarding the latest language compatibility.
When rain hits the side windows at speed it typically spreads out and washes across the whole surface, obscuring your view. With water-repellent glass, a specially formulated coating means that rain streams off the front side windows much more quickly. This helps improve your visibility to the left and right, especially in heavy rain.
