Lightweight water pipes help Lexus NX to downsize

摘要

Lexus's latest SUV, the NX, integrates innovative water pipes that are not only 40% lighter but, being more malleable, are easier for engineers to package. The technology should make it simpler to downsize powertrains compared to using conventional pipes as it reduces packaging challenges. Traditionally, the pipes for the intercooler are made of iron or stainless steel, but supplier Toyoda Gosei has manufactured a lightweight plastic model. Produced in Japan using water-assisted injection technology to mould the pipes into shape, they are being successfully mass produced and are integrated into the NX. Being plastic, the pipes can be moulded to include curves that would make conventional pipes unworkable. Due to this ease of shaping, the pipes effectively reduce the space required for the engine.