Lexus to Run LF-A Mule in 24 Hours of Nurburgring

Now here's an interesting tidbit of news for any doubters of the Lexus supercar

program. The brand has just confirmed that it will be contesting a prototype of its upcoming performance vehicle at this year's running of the 24 Hours of Nurburgring.

Lexus will enter a version of the LF-A supercar in the race for developmental purposes. Although Toyota's luxury division isn't saying what's under the hood, it's hard to say whether or not it is stock, or whether the racer will even feature the same powertrain as the production car; for all we know it could be merely testing the suspension and other drivetrain components.

From the most recent series of spy shots that have been snapped, it appears that the LF-A has been modified slightly in its latest race-ready form to include different valances, a GT race car-style rear spoiler, additional front lighting, a lower ride height and bigger brakes. To comply with race regulations, the vehicle will

have a roll cage and a race-approved fuel tank.

Lexus isn't so much out to win the event as to garner valuable information about the vehicle's performance during this endurance race. Many manufacturers test out their vehicles on the Nurburgring to tune suspension systems and other components, and for endurance as well, but using an actual race to develop a production car is a pretty good indication of how serious Lexus is. That said, it would be quite a surprise if the LF-A managed to pull off a podium finish or even a victory...

The LF-A is expected to arrive sometime before 2010.