Lateral Performance Damper System

Because any high rigidity body has a tendency to transmit vibrations, the Lexus CT 200h also features a premium compact segment-unique, front and rear lateral performance damping system designed to absorb and minimise undesirable body vibrations, offer a more linear steering feel and further contribute to ride comfort.

In lieu of conventional, fixed bracing, this Lexus-first system features a front performance damper connecting the left and right front suspension towers, and a rear damper connecting the left and right sides of the rear structural frame.

With a construction similar to that of a typical monotube suspension damper, the front and rear performance damper assemblies have reduced vehicle floor vibrations across a wide frequency range, reduced body deformation in left and right front suspension tower displacement, and even lowered audio system white noise levels.

Though difficult to analyse even using Computer Aided Design, micronsized, minuscule vibrations manifest themselves as a slight discomfort when turning the wheel and minute deviations in vehicle behaviour during straight line acceleration. Their elimination brings a new dimension of steering response, agility and ride comfort to the premium compact segment.

Lightweight Body Design with Low Centre of Gravity Offering superior dynamic abilities, numerous measures have been adopted to ensure the Lexus CT 200h has the lowest possible centre of gravity and moment of inertia. The bodyshell features a long, 2,600mm wheelbase with short front and rear overhangs, in which occupants sit as close to the centre as possible to reduce the moment of inertia.

In order to minimise the yaw inertia moment and improve the Lexus CT 200h's agility, bodywork components most distant from the vehicle's centre of gravity have been designed to be as light as possible. As a result, the bonnet, tailgate and bumper reinforcements have been fabricated in aluminium, creating the lightest Lexus yet.

Overall vehicle height, ride height and the driver's hip point have been set as low as possible. And the hybrid battery has been located under the loadspace floor yet within the wheelbase, optimising weight distribution and balance. Further lowering the centre of gravity whilst also maximising fuel efficiency by minimising weight, the body itself incorporates not only aluminium, but also a high percentage of lightweight, high tensile steel.

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