New Delhi: Going beyond the conventional concepts of car building, Lexus has developed what is the first-ever full-sized functional car inspired by origami.
The world’s first origami-inspired car is a cardboard version of the Lexus IS saloon and has been built out of some 1700 individually shaped pieces of cardboard.
The full-sized sculpture has been hand crafted and includes a fully fitted interior, functioning doors, headlights and rolling wheels. The origami Lexus explores the design of the Lexus IS in forensic detail, and thanks to an electric motor mounted on its steel and aluminium frame, it can even be driven!
A team from LaserCut WORKS and Scales and Models - two London-based specialist companies with extensive experience in the design and creation of prototypes, architectural models and bespoke commissions was given the assignment to build the car. Lexus provided the team with a digital 3D model of the IS, which was then divided into a series of principal parts, such as the main body, dashboard, seats and wheels which were then digitally rendered in 10mm 'slices.'
Each layer was then given its own reference number to be assembled correctly, all by hand. A water-based wood glue was used to fix each layer. It had to be left to set for 10 minutes after each application. As changes couldn't be made once the glue dried, absolute precision was crucial.
In all, the Origami Car took three months to build. Sadly, the company, which also made the hoverboard, admits this will be the only Lexus that will be kept out of the rain.
The car will be on display at the Grand Designs Live show at the NEC in Birmingham, from October 8-11.
All images: Lexus
Watch the making of the Lexus Origami car and see it roll in action in the following video:
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