Lexus is stepping into the yacht-design world with its 42-foot Lexus Sport Yacht concept. A sleek, speedy, carbon-fiber vessel, this design takes Lexus luxury into a whole new realm.
It all started when Aiko Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corporation, climbed aboard Toyota Marine Department’s Ponam range of premium yachts. The experience inspired Toyoda, who is also the Chief Branding Officer of Lexus International, to explore the premium yacht possibilities for Lexus as well.
Lexus revealed the Lexus Sport Yacht concept in Miami, Florida, as a one-time build, with no production intent. Marquis-Carver Yacht Group was selected to build the yacht “based on their in-house engineering and manufacturing capabilities and their skill in large hand-laid composite structures,” writes Lexus. Indeed, the Sport Yacht’s hull was constructed using large pieces of hand-laid carbon fiber, making it nearly 2,200 pounds lighter than a similar-sized, fiberglass yacht. Additionally, her hull is stepped, in order to reduce drag and improve high-speed handling.
The Lexus Sport Yacht is powered by twin Lexus V8 440 hp engines, reportedly pushing the yacht to a 43-knot top-end, and her beam measures 13 feet. The open yacht design is intended for day cruising with 6 to 8 guests. Her interior includes a forward stateroom; a salon with seating for six and a table; a galley with a two-burner stove, sink and under-the-counter refrigerator; and a head with shower.
Lexus isn’t the only car manufacturer dipping its feet into yacht design. Mercedes, Aston Martin and Bugatti have all swerved into the marine industry as well. It seems we may have a new luxury yacht trend on our hands.
