Lexus' cardboard car: full-scale origami IS saloon revealed

Made from 1,700 pieces of cardboard, the origami Lexus IS is powered by an electric motor

Not satisfied with building hoverboards, Lexus has now turned its attention to origami cars. Modelled on the Lexus IS, the full scale model has been made entirely of precision-cut cardboard; although the car is mounted onto a steel and aluminium frame for support. The origami IS is powered by an electric motor which means it can be driven and if safety is a concern fear not, it we imagine it must have very large crumple zones.

The model has a fully fitted interior, functioning doors, real headlights and rolling wheels. The entire creation was hand-crafted from precision-cut cardboard and took three months to build. Lexus partnered with LaserCut Works and London-based specialists Scales and Models for the project.

Using a digital 3D model of the IS as a starting point, the cardboard car was divided into a series of main parts which were then digitally rendered in 10mm “slices,” these profiles then aided the cutting of the 1,700 sheets of 10mm-thick cardboard.

“This was a very demanding job, with five people involved in the digital design, modelling, laser cutting and assembly. Just like Lexus, we were committed to producing the best possible quality.” explained Ruben Marcos, the Scales and Models Company founder and director.

The origami Lexus IS will be unveiled to the public from 8 October at the Grand Designs Live show which will be held at the NEC, Birmingham. 

Tell us what you think of Lexus' cardboard car in the comments section below...

Recommended

New Lexus LF-ZL concept revealed: an EV to rival the most luxurious SUVs
Lexus LF-ZL concept - front 3/4 static
News

New Lexus LF-ZL concept revealed: an EV to rival the most luxurious SUVs

The Lexus LF-ZL concept will be the brand’s new flagship model when it reaches production
25 Oct 2023
Lexus LF-ZC concept to rival Tesla Model 3 in 2026
Lexus LF-ZC concept - front
News

Lexus LF-ZC concept to rival Tesla Model 3 in 2026

The LF-ZC concept shows off new battery technology, and makes use of bamboo in the cabin
25 Oct 2023
Next generation Lexus model to be previewed by groundbreaking concept
Lexus EV concept
News

Next generation Lexus model to be previewed by groundbreaking concept

A new all-electric Lexus is due in 2026 and is set to be previewed by a concept car confirmed by a teaser image
21 Sep 2023

Most Popular

New Renault Scenic 2023 review: the famous nameplate returns in style
Renault Scenic - front
Road tests

New Renault Scenic 2023 review: the famous nameplate returns in style

We get behind the wheel of new all-electric Renault Scenic to see what all the fuss is about
27 Nov 2023
“Renault is taking over as the manufacturer of cars for the people”
Opinion - Renault Twingo
Opinion

“Renault is taking over as the manufacturer of cars for the people”

Mike Rutherford thinks Renault is doing more than any other manufacturer when it comes to making affordable electric cars
26 Nov 2023
New 2024 Dacia Duster: third generation of Europe’s best-selling SUV revealed
Dacia Duster - front
News

New 2024 Dacia Duster: third generation of Europe’s best-selling SUV revealed

Dacia has taken the wraps off the latest Duster, which arrives with a new look and fresh technology
29 Nov 2023