Lexus LFA Dials (2010)

The Lexus LFA really was an inspired – and to outsiders, completely random – moment of incredible design and engineering. Nobody expected a product like that; the rumoured next-generation Toyota Supra, it was not. Strangely, almost nothing that Lexus learnt in making the LFA has seen itself translated onto more humble Lexus models – that is, aside from Lexus’ now-trademark hybrid digital instrument cluster.

Based around a compact, square screen, the LFA’s dial pack was different in that it had a physical silver bezel, that not only sat atop a hi-def screen but also moved across to suit the graphics underneath, depending on the mode selected. This clever bit of design and software was undoubtedly a brilliant feature, but it also pre-emptively tackled a bigger problem in the wake of mainstream cars converting to screens, rather than dials, for driver information.

Dials in the past would help distinguish cars based on a whole variety of factors, and remain (mostly) clear and easy to read as a result. Now, with the diversification of this technology, it is up to software, rather than design, to help distinguish cars based on model and brand. Lexus, with its hybrid (no pun intended) approach to dials looks to be a clever way of bringing forth the advantages of a digital dial pack, without losing any inherent character.

Lexus seem to be enjoying the fruits of its adventurous dials. Not only did the following IS feature the same sliding-bezel setup, but both the new LC and LS have been designed around the minimisation of the dial pack, thus enlarging the central infotainment screen – and in the case of the LS, the head-up display as well.

How manufacturers decide to try and re-create their individuality will likely end up via a combination of software and physical dials, but it was Haruhiko Tanahashi’s LFA that, by accident or not, answered a question that had yet to be asked.