by NATS Students Transform Lexus into a Sedan Inspired by Toyota Vellfire
Students from the Japanese college NATS have presented their new projects for the Tokyo Auto Salon. One of the most interesting developments was a sedan created on the basis of a Lexus LS, but with a design inspired by the Toyota Vellfire minivan. Instead of computer models, the students decided to assemble the car by hand, combining elements of two different models.
This project is part of three unique developments being prepared for the exhibition. In addition to the sedan, students are working on a restored Nissan Gloria in a lowrider style and a sports coupe based on the Daihatsu Copen. All three cars are scheduled to be ready by December.
Unconventional Design Based on Lexus LS460
The basis for the Vellfire Sedan is the Lexus LS460 — a full-size luxury sedan that was produced from 2006 to 2017. The students plan to integrate LED headlights from the Vellfire into it, as well as install a custom front bumper with a large radiator grille. The most difficult task will be combining the minivan’s design with the sedan’s lines.
The students have everything they need to achieve their goal.
On the sides, the car will receive 21-inch wheels from WORKS and an air suspension to reduce the ground clearance. The rear will be equipped with LED taillights in the Vellfire style, a small spoiler, and an updated bumper. The interior is planned to be upholstered in white leather and the multimedia system will be modernized.
The 4.6-liter V8 engine with 375 hp will remain unchanged, as will the eight-speed transmission. NATS promises to share new photos and videos of the car’s creation process before its official premiere.
This project demonstrates how the creativity of young engineers can reinterpret classic concepts. The combination of a minivan and a sedan is an unusual but interesting experiment that may find its fans among car enthusiasts. The success of such initiatives will depend on how successfully the Vellfire’s design can be integrated into the Lexus architecture.
