Sunday, the new Lexus RC F GT Concept will compete in the Time Attack Class of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
The vehicle is inspired by the legacy of the IS F CCS-R that competed two years ago.
Sunday’s event at Pikes Peak marks the 93rd running of the race, envisioned by Colorado Springs benefactor, Spencer Penrose.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was first held in August of 1916, although called The Pikes Peak Auto Hill Climb at the time. It is the second longest running race in the world, just behind the Indianapolis 500.
“The Race to the Clouds” presents a dangerous climate for competitors. The elements and altitude change consistently on the 12.42 mile, 156 turn course that travels up the peak from 9,390 feet and to the 14,115 foot summit.
The new Lexus will be driven by 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and automotive media personality Justin Bell.
The new RC F GT Concept represents continued growth for Lexus and their F brand. Similar to how the IS F CCS R’s presence in motor sports helped develop the engine and transmission for the 2015 RC F, this GT Concept will do the same for future F branded vehicles.
Lexus engineers can experiment with prototypes and other variables involving tuning, chassis components, and software integration.
We recently drove the GS 350 F SPORT and really enjoyed the performance. We could easily tell it was inspired by something more than just casual driving.
What is gathered from events like this Sunday, at Pikes Peaks, will eventually carry over.
“The continued evolution of the F brand remains a top priority for Lexus, and motor sports provide us an outstanding opportunity to develop more than concepts and components for F brand products. Our niche line of high performance products are geared toward enthusiast drivers, and also make a very strong statement about Lexus’ engineering capabilities. Competition efforts like Pikes Peak help nurture a performance engineering culture and ideology that will have the greatest influence of future F brand products.” ~ Jeff Bracken – Group Vice President and General Manager, Lexus division.
RC F GT Concept Specifications
Curb Weight: 3,130 lbs.
Displacement: 5.0 (Tuned to better meet the demands of Pikes Peak)
Horsepower: 467 at 7,100 RPM
Torque: 390 at 4,800 RPM
Transmission: 8-speed Automatic with manual mode
Wheelbase: 107.4 inches
Length: 189.2 inches
Width: 77.8 inches
Height: 53.4 inches
Tires: Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R 265/40R18 & ADVAN A005 280/680R18
Carbon Fiber Construction: hood, roof, trunk lid, door panels, front/rear fenders, rear spoiler and dashboard.
*carbon fiber helps reduce weight*
Qualifying and practice runs through Friday with the race Sunday.
Full spectator guide can be found here.
