WORLD-CLASS LEXUS LC 500 FACTORY IN JAPAN - ENGINEER EXPLAINS HOW LEXUS LC IS BUILT

Рет қаралды 109,062

Күн бұрын

This is once-in-a-lifetime experience of visiting the legendary Lexus LC 500 factory in Japan from the perspective of an Automotive Engineer David Chao - who has an extensive experience in automotive manufacturing. David just returned from Japan touring this specialized Lexus LC plant where only 18 vehicles are produced per day. No mainstream media has visited this LC factory, which makes this video truly special and unique. David takes each stage step by step, and explains in full detail exactly how the Toyota Production System works in this most coveted and admired plant within the Toyota/Lexus family. Watch the entire video to understand why the LC 500 is so special and why it is one of the best built vehicles in the world.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

Пікірлер: 331

@asong26 4 ай бұрын

As a 24 LC Owner, this video is so very special for me! I thought some parts were hand built, but virtually everything appears to be hand built (assembled). Incredible. Brings another level of pride in my ownership of my 24 Bespoke Convertible. Love it! Thank you!!!

@blisguy 4 ай бұрын

I also have a 24 LC, but in coupe. I share your thoughts. I've owned mine for 5 months. I hate rattles but I have only one. Surely it can't be Lexus' fault. The rattle is in the magnetic seatbelt holder by my left ear. I'll get it figured out. I've owned Lexus/Toyota every year since 1987. Lexus till I die!

@kurtbeck5809 4 ай бұрын

If it were not for the money I would consider changing from the IS500

@blisguy 4 ай бұрын

@@kurtbeck5809 If everyone could afford one, I wouldn't get it. No offence.

@asong26 4 ай бұрын

@@kurtbeck5809 It's not cheap. I think that's why it's so rare on the road. My 24 bespoke convertible was arond $137K out the door. That's 911 money. Completely different animal. I think for what you're getting, it's a steal!

@kurtbeck5809 4 ай бұрын

@asong26 yes I love that vehicle...I like that white convertible with black wheels...maybe I should say wtf and go for it

@JonnyBeoulve 4 ай бұрын

Several months ago I saw your video where you compared the 911 to the LC500. I had rented several 911s over the years but never an LC. Well, I had the chance to rent one during New Year week and everything you said in the video is true. The build quality, engine note, and driving dynamics are absolutely phenomenal. As much as I love the 911, (it's my favorite sports car) I'd rather own an LC. The one I rented had over 80k miles on it and it still operated like new. Meanwhile, my 2018 Mercedes E43 AMG has creaks in the interior (at 42k miles...) and cheap plastic materials. I'll be trading it in later this year. Keep up the great work and respect to the engineers at Lexus who built the LC with remarkably good attention to detail.

@CyFi6 4 ай бұрын

People complain about the price of these cars Vs the spec. They either dont understand or dont care about what into making them. There is value behind quality engineering and production and is something I will always be willing to pay for. Im glad there is a brand that ks doing it.

@davidmagen415 4 ай бұрын

I am the proud owner of a ‘23 LC500 Convertible. The car is about as perfect as it could be. Quick, smooth, luxurious, beautiful all wrapped up w Lexus quality. Honestly i can’t think a flaw or negative about this car. I enjoy the exclusivity this car possesses 🏖️

@nicolasmikah4168 4 ай бұрын

I own one, a 2018 model, built in April 2017 in Japan as stated on the sticker at the driver’s side door. It is in infrared with black interior and with the performance package, it puts a smile on my face when I drive it.

@dpledoone 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for bringing this experience to life David. Unless one has experienced the Japanese work ethic, it is difficult to compare with other auto makers

@alaingarcia4756 4 ай бұрын

It would be impossible to get this level of discipline from American workers 😮

@USCfan03 4 ай бұрын

I don’t agree

@JeremiahAlphonsus 4 ай бұрын

True. Japan’s greatest strength is their lack of diversity. Diversity = chaos and death, as America is experiencing.

@Youtubax 4 ай бұрын

Indeed. The japanese value the quality of their work as a character presentation card of themselves to the world. They don’t want to be perceived as indisciplined in any way or form.

@stevewilson6390 4 ай бұрын

I agree! Just look at the quality of work you get from Boeing, Its shocking.

@douglaskaye1395 4 ай бұрын

American cars are essentially built to be recalled. Tesla needs to have Toyota build their cars with Teslas drivetrain and battery.

@craigglenister8891 4 ай бұрын

Pick up my new LC500 convertible in two days, so this tour was invaluable. Thank you.

@kpodudu4501 4 ай бұрын

How’s the experience been so far ?

@pedrot1152 23 күн бұрын

How do you like it so far? Thinking about getting one

@nashaatmahmud9052 4 ай бұрын

Each car built by Lexus is a statement, reflecting the culture the history the values and the tradition of this great nation, respect and love from NZ.

@solooverland3666 4 ай бұрын

THIS is the (Toyota/Lexus) way! Respect! ❤️🇯🇵

@Mizt_Sim 4 ай бұрын

Jeez, I'm just speechless but Toyota is on another level. Insane engineering and process.

@2URLex 4 ай бұрын

Built with care, I’ve said it hundreds of times. The build quality is unmatched.

@TheCyberMantis 3 ай бұрын

Lexus is the best. Super nice factory. Amazing attention to detail. Japan is doing it right.

@Pamsophydee 4 ай бұрын

I can never get tired looking at this beautiful machine. Goal is to own one soon!

@ronaldbryant7710 3 ай бұрын

I have a LS 500 I purchased brand new in 2020, and the Lexus is second to none. The LC 500 is my dream car and one day I plan on purchasing one. The assembly line is done with such great precision, organization, and perfectionism.

@luisbarraza9709 4 ай бұрын

3 things. 1. No wonder my 96 es300 with 300k I drove in college ran like a top. 2. The LC500 will go down as a classic in 25-30 and will actually still be running and in great condition. 3 you should follow up this video with a tour of Dodge dart production so we can see the two extremes 😅

@FilmScape4K 4 ай бұрын

Your 1996 ES is mass produced. Not comparable to how LC and LFAs are built.

@chevyfan029 4 ай бұрын

@@FilmScape4KToyota/Lexus quality standards are consistent across car lines and factories though. Only difference here is 18 vehicles per shift vs. probably 100 or so for the ES.

@likunjian1850 4 ай бұрын

Thank you David for this upload, this makes me want a LC500 even more! We must buy one before they go out of production, Lexus LC will definitely be a timeless and hidden gem in the automotive world

@lmphm 3 ай бұрын

I tried to get an appointment in the factory to witness the build of my 23 LC500 back in Fall 2022 but was not successful. Thank you for this video!

@ryanbeck3013 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing such an amazing and rare inside look at the production line of the LC 500. Such incredible attention to detail. You obviously have some extraordinary connections to be allowed in their production facility. The build quality of this vehicle is second to none. I just can’t believe how much of the vehicle is built by hand.

@barrydrexler1323 4 ай бұрын

Wow!!! Now I understand why my recently sold 205k miles LS430 Ultra had no squeaks or rattles! Everything worked except for telescopic feature on steering wheel! I was truly Blessed to have owned a World Class Lexus Vehicle built in Japan🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 Thanks David for your amazing and insightful videos🙏🏼❣️❣️

@rogerthat117 4 ай бұрын

Best car in the world built by the best builders. Hmm who would have thought

@A861967 3 ай бұрын

An amazing car and not by accident ❤ it represents a philosophy and an attitude of excellence 😊

@markkennedy5335 4 ай бұрын

I worked at a Toyota factory in Canada for almost 19 years. I then moved to the Southern Hemisphere and got a job in a factory that was so outdated I thought Fred Flintstone was going to be working at the next station. Recently we moved back to Canada and I now work for a very big Warehouse retailer. There are hundreds of people who walk in punch the clock do their job punch out and go home. Suggestions are NOT really welcome because the answer is always “ That’s the way Head Office wants it”. It is absolutely mind blowing that all these people are so disengaged for that reason. How do you build a culture within your company with that way of thinking for a Business Model? Oh wait a tick I think I get it now, Their is No competition so complacency is the norm, ask BlackBerry how that worked out for them 🤔 Toyota runs there business like a well oiled machine. You are engaged within 5 mins of working there. What a difference. Very well done David are you sure that gorgeous Blue 500 you kept following wasn’t yours?

@user-zj6mv6eg8q 4 ай бұрын

TRULY WORLD CLASS PRODUCTION.

@marklerfald 4 ай бұрын

World-class tour, David. Thank you!

@mrengineerAZ 4 ай бұрын

Truly astonishing to see the action behind an amazing car. I love my LC even more now!!

@raycollington4310 4 ай бұрын

I love car plant tours. One of the key factors though is the quality of components used. Some German cars are beautifully designed but let down by cheap low quality components. Thank you.

@JustSomeOldGuy Ай бұрын

Thank you, David. 6 months ago I'd never heard of an LC 500. Now I own one. A Convertible Inspiration Series. The outstanding quality of Lexus shines with this car.

@bmminc3001 4 ай бұрын

That's the best looking vehicle on the road today..I really admire the prestige and elegance that emits from it's sculpture..

@70diezel 4 ай бұрын

Thank you David for bringing such an awesome experience. I am such a fan of Japanese cars specially Toyota/Lexus. The ethics, professional and reliability of Japanese cars is outstanding and beats every car maker. Thanks for such a great video. Love it

@Youtubax 4 ай бұрын

My GR Yaris was made in this same factory two years ago. Watching this footage makes me even more proud of owning one! Thank you David.

@IR-ry9bi 4 ай бұрын

Interesting. When I bought my 2019 LC I was told the hand-built assembly line was made for the LFA and then was dormant until LC came out. It seems they make many models at that plant but I wonder if that line is now shared by the GR. In 2019 it seems it wasn't shared by any other car model.

@Youtubax 4 ай бұрын

@@IR-ry9bi As I understood Motomachi’s factory was originally built to make Lexus models only. Over the years this changed and also made high end performance Toyotas like the GR Yaris/Corolla and the hydrogen powered sedan whose name I don’t remember now. And yes, the LFA gave this factory it’s prestige as well.

@AutomotivePress 4 ай бұрын

The Motomachi plant actually consists of many smaller factories inside a large plant. So the GR section has its own area separate from the LC and other Motomachi products.

@RandenMontalvo 4 ай бұрын

@@AutomotivePress Great piece!! Loved Lexus attention to detail. The GS and GSF were said to be built at locations at Motomachi aswell. Would love if you did a piece on the RCF Track or Fuji Editions the rawness of that car interests me more when I test drove them both in terms of Lexus focus on performance carbon fiber and aero design. Lexus make beautiful cars each for their own targets. The new emotion touring Japanese RCFs have a unique hand built engine balancing and also a specifically modified Torsen separate from all models prior that is said to be a great improvement over the prior iterations. Although the LC didnt inspire me as a driver per say; I understand its purpose; My taste finds myself loving the RCFs and the GX OT more than anything currently besides the LFA of course. I white LFA Nurb Package is a car I dream to drive and own one day.

@Louis1059 4 ай бұрын

So amazing! You are the best David!

@hawkeshots 4 ай бұрын

truth! beautiful vehicle, beautifully built!

@philipjaffe8788 4 ай бұрын

I've had nothing but trouble with German cars (cough Audi). I am very strongly considering a Lexus for my next car!

@reload.8056 2 ай бұрын

Audi is the worst

@adrianw3985 4 ай бұрын

An amazing car, an amazing car factory. Looks like you can literally eat off the floors, it is so clean and organized.

@RideTheTrack 4 ай бұрын

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS!!

@bryanf853 4 ай бұрын

Loving these tours David, the quality of the LC500 speaks for itself!

@douglaskaye1395 4 ай бұрын

Nicely done. American’s cars aren’t in the same universe. Thank you for the amazing video. I wish I could afford such a perfect machine. It is so perfect I would not want to drive on the freeways in Houston.😊

@E_Rice 4 ай бұрын

Very nice. Can we see the Lexus ES production line . I’m very curious on what the 2024 ES offers and what the 2025 will be like since it’s rumored to be refreshed

@eaYVR 4 ай бұрын

You just made appreciate my LC even more! Thank you. An excellent video.

@EndlessPursuits 4 ай бұрын

Fantastic video David. Lots of great takeaways, and really interesting to see the process that goes into building these amazing cars.

@jd2plus2 4 ай бұрын

At my dealer in Toronto noticing LC 500 in bronze , yellow and the LC 500h in that beautiful blue . Lexus on the park . Very glad my wife can’t see these up close . Amazing interaction in the factory

@jaythor7123 4 ай бұрын

Awesome vid! Thanks for sharing

@CLJCL 4 ай бұрын

Definitely a huge difference between all the factories in each country. I have had the privilege of owning the Japanese made Lexus vehicles and most recently a Canadian made RX by the grace of God. The North American factories (including Toyota) have a long way to go in terms of Takumi. I have owned a 07 RXh (Japan) and now a 22 RXh and the build quality is much better in the 07. My hope is that Lexus/Toyota management would consider more input from existing owners like they used to. Even the car buying experience surveys are generic compared to what it was before.

@bubba4072 4 ай бұрын

That was fantastic! Thank you for showing us around.👍

@tcpwiz1 4 ай бұрын

Thank you. Great tour!

@TopJoo7 3 ай бұрын

Torqued down to the tee, impressive! Lexus forever

@igp808 4 ай бұрын

Wow, incredible discipline and pride in workmanship!

@karlkrzok4280 4 ай бұрын

Great tour David, thank you! Amazing to see the quality and care they take on the car.

@marekhavel9174 4 ай бұрын

Great video David. That car factory is a form of art, it is just amazing to see everything working.

@user-zt6ve8st3z 4 ай бұрын

It is absolutely incredible to see, how much effort, knowledge, experience and craftsmanship is invested into this brilliant car. Thank you for sharing of this excursion and the possibility to see it and to realize, what precision is imputed in the LC construction. Each wrench with precise torque measurement! Unbelievable! Can you imagine the investment into this kind of an equipment??? At this scale??? I cannot comprehend 😅!

@jeromeroyeppen9939 4 ай бұрын

Yes thank you David a truly amazing insight into the most amazing car brand in our time the Takumi masters are unique and amazing

@nighthawktheflyingspur 4 ай бұрын

Very impressive! Thank you David

@Samsonovgolf 8 күн бұрын

I enjoy my LC500 ‘19 and this video helped me to understand how much love and quality involved. Thank you for a video

@Magmade_ 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for this video! I LOVE my LC500.

@erickonassis6310 4 ай бұрын

This was a great video ..

@rickgeiger4045 4 ай бұрын

Excellent presentation.. Absolutely a high-quality product. Thank you.

@gembabrad 4 ай бұрын

Thanks David for this rare look inside! Great video to see the foundations with new tech!

@savagegeese 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing this.

@ayawoke9906 3 ай бұрын

Absolute World Class Ride

@jamesleslie2356 Ай бұрын

A huge thanks to the entire Lexus team for building one of the most beautiful cars in the world. :)

@jimtyme 4 ай бұрын

Excellent video

@FreedomLover170 4 ай бұрын

awsome video thanks for giving us a inside look at the way this is made ❤

@You-All-Pokai 4 ай бұрын

very appreciate for extreme details to earn respect

@fmini8418 4 ай бұрын

What a great episode such an an amazing car

@CeeJay591 4 ай бұрын

Thank you David for this really great video - fully explains why this car is so special - amazing...

@kurtbeck5809 4 ай бұрын

Would love to see that in person myself. Thank you for the enjoyable video.

@kosanmr2 4 ай бұрын

excellent video!

@LCculater 2 ай бұрын

Great video ! Thank you .

@jonwarren101 4 ай бұрын

Tremendous video. Thank you so much for sharing. It is great to learn more about the Toyota Production System and how it is implemented at Toyota and Lexus manufacturing plants.

@davidkeenan5989 4 ай бұрын

So interesting, many thanks.

@precinctplay3142 4 ай бұрын

This is gold footage 😊😊😊thank you for sharing a master piece footage. 😊

@jamesclapp6940 4 ай бұрын

would love to see the LC engine assembly if that is permitted

@vpwl 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing your experience!! I love the lc500, and I hope I can get one in the next 2 years.

@gahbah274 3 ай бұрын

Such a nice and well informed video. You even had the colors memorized!

@garyclark6747 4 ай бұрын

Great tour of a great product. 19:47

@UtahJohnnyL Ай бұрын

Thank you for the amazing tour, an amazing facility that I have always been curious about since the LFA was produced there. I too am an LC500 owner of four years now. I've owned over 100+ cars so far, and the 2018 LC500 I have is most certainly one special car. It just checks so many boxes for me and is an amazing vehicle. I am not alone in my feelings, automotive journalists from all over sing praise about this car as well. Thanks again!

@AutomotivePress Ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it!

@carloskissoondhan9641 4 ай бұрын

This is so awesome. 🏁

@theofficialpeterkim 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing David. Wonderful to see these highly skilled workers creating these beautiful cars. One of the main reasons why I only buy Japanese.

@user-hx8lt9fk9d 2 ай бұрын

Have a 2021 model. Love it! Love this video!

@phapnguyen7336 4 ай бұрын

AWESOME!!!! Got My Gx460 last August, and the LC 500 is on my wish list....🤞

@aisabaisak 4 ай бұрын

Amazing video.......

@wongchai807 4 ай бұрын

❤❤❤ thank you david! Top knotch quality!

@Sleeper47 3 ай бұрын

His English is commendable, good pronunciation and clear!

@shaneh734 4 ай бұрын

Beautiful car!

@wallochdm1 Ай бұрын

Amazing dedication to quality.

@aalkurdi 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for your efforts sir

@ginobozzi3954 4 ай бұрын

What a beautiful way to put a car together it’s a masterpiece.

@josephalba978 4 ай бұрын

Great video, David! Hope you can visit more factories in Japan and soon in Korea.

@MrMacka1964 4 ай бұрын

Great video, would love to also see the 70 series factory and them being built if you ever get a chance!

@charliecleanup 3 ай бұрын

Love the video really makes you want the car too

@thesauce669 10 күн бұрын

who can look at this and want any other car---its a master piece

@snyper701 3 ай бұрын

For me it's the most beautiful car ever built.❤

@montyboy5436 4 ай бұрын

Quality is built into The System. Quality begins with transformation of the individual. (Deming) I love my RX350, 2010 with 210,000 miles. Perfect, no squeaks, no rattles. Enjoy your work, thank you.

@latinoheat49 4 ай бұрын

Great stuff, amazing car.

@eddieg6436 4 ай бұрын

I’m very excited to buy my dream convertible LC in a few years!

@chrisdakins2010 4 ай бұрын

This is a great video! If they put a manual transmission in the LC it would be an absolutely perfect car!

@supralover92 4 ай бұрын

Big thanks! This is above and beyond! Lexus is art not cars. I love my rc200t.

@ricardoyoung2008 4 ай бұрын

Amazing David! Simply amazing and thank you! I have a 14 gs 350 f sport which was made in the Tahara plant and squeaks are non existent. Even though my GS is nowhere near the price or exclusive as the LC 500, they even made my car with high quality materials.

4 ай бұрын

I would love to go to Japan and see the factories in person

@RandenMontalvo 4 ай бұрын

@automotivepress excellent work love this work by the Lexus family and it showcases their art and attention to detail can you do one on the RCF FUJI/TRACK Edition to see differences of factory and builds. The insane carbon work on the Fuji editions interest me etc. Excellent piece.