Lexus and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF) have collaborated on a special LX Convertible ride-on vehicle inspired by children with cerebral palsy.
The ride-on Lexus has been designed specifically for Finley Smallwood and was gifted to the cerebral palsy sufferer earlier this month, a month also designated as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month.
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Lexus customized the LX Convertible’s seat because it can be difficult for Finley to sit for long periods of time. As such, new side padding was added as was an adjustable headrest and a five-point harness. The automaker also increased the door size and lowered the ride height to make it easier for her to hop in and out.
Modifications were also made to the Lexus’ controls. Typically, ride-on vehicles like this feature traditional pedals and a steering wheel but many children with cerebral palsy don’t have the strength to hold and turn a steering wheel. Consequently, a joystick has been added that allows Finley to control the direction of the vehicle and how quickly it accelerates. The car has also been painted purple, Finley’s favorite color.
“At Lexus, our core design philosophy has always been human-centric,” Lexus group vice president and product planning & strategy Cooper Ericksen said of the unique project. “We create vehicles around the art and science of human needs. In this case, we wanted to push the envelope and explore what that might mean for a child with cerebral palsy who hasn’t been able to experience the joy of mobility like other children have.”
