2005 Lexus LF-A Concept

Such high velocities are normally only achieved by Toyota's Panasonic-sponsored Formula One car, a program the

The exotic Lexus should provide supercar performance with 500-horsepower on tap and an estimated 322 km/h (200 mph) top speed. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

automaker says it aligned with in order to achieve superiority among its rivals in "speed, quickness, agility and reliability".

But while incredibly quick and agile, the LF-A boasts high levels of refined luxury appointments and once again, a very un-exotic expected reliability rating, the usual Lexus fare.

Lexus made no mention of the vehicle's engine other than its V8 configuration, more than 500 horsepower output and displacement of less than five liters. Most likely the engine is derived from the brand's velvety smooth

The inspiration for the LF-A's powertrain and drivetrain is theoretically based on Toyota's Formula One equipment. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

4.3-liter V8, but it is entirely possible that the LF-A, if built, would possess an entirely new engine architecture.

"The LF-A is theoretically developed to run a parallel course to our company's efforts in Formula One racing," added Press. "It would probably feature a powertrain and drivetrain configuration strongly influenced by whatever is being used in competition at the time."

F1's 2006/2007 season will see the introduction of all-new V8 engine regulations. This will work very well for Lexus compared to BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which both have invested heavily in new V10 engines for use in their flagship models, BMW in its M5 and M-B in its radical SLR.