Two IS Fs are introduced as ‘Drift Ride Cars’
Formula Drift was launched in the USA in 2004, and Formula Drift Japan (FDJ) started in Japan in 2014 and has become highly popular. Two Lexus IS F cars, named “Drift Ride Cars”, which FDJ will introduce as one of its new fan services from the 2024 season, were unveiled at the Osaka Auto Messe (OAM) 2024, held from 10 to 12 February 2024.
BRIDE bucket seats are also installed in the rear for the passenger experience
This Lexus IS F, which will be used as a ‘drift ride car’ in the 2024 season of Formula Drift Japan, was provided by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and is a drift machine based on a left-hand drive version of the IS F with a V8 5.0L engine. The powertrain is in stock but boasts specifications of 423 hp/505 Nm in stock form.
This machine was transformed into a drift machine by incorporating RS-R suspension and CUSCO LSD, and wearing a Lexus IS aero kit by Luxor, an aero brand released by Kazama Auto Service.
In the cabin, four full bucket seats made by BRIDE are installed, not only in the front but also two in the rear, providing a good hold to withstand the lateral G forces that occur when drifting, no matter where you sit.
A new event will be held at Fuji at the same time as the opening race on 7 April
The vehicle will be used for drifting demonstrations and will also be operated as a drift taxi, and to their surprise, they are considering a service that would allow the vehicle to drive on the competition course during the lunch break on the day of the event.
In that case, there is a possibility that current drivers who compete in FDJ and legendary drivers from the past will be behind the steering wheel, and spectators drawn from among those who visit the venue will be able to experience the brilliant drifting techniques of professionals.
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The opening round of the 2024 FDJ season is scheduled to be held at Fuji Speedway from Saturday 6 to Sunday 7 April. On the race day, 7 April, a new event called “Fuji Xtreme Day With FORMULA DRIFT JAPAN” will be held at the same time, where you can experience a whole day of “Xtreme” drifting, so if you want to experience drifting up close and personal, why not check it out?
■FORMULA DRIFT JAPAN official website:
https://formulad.jp
translated by DeepL