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Lexus builds a full-size cardboard car (pictures)

Lexus fashions a life-size version of its IS sedan from 1,700 pieces of cardboard laser-cut and glued into a driveable model.

Amanda Kooser
Freelance writer Amanda C. Kooser covers gadgets and tech news with a twist for CNET. When not wallowing in weird gear and iPad apps for cats, she can be found tinkering with her 1956 DeSoto.
Amanda Kooser
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A cardboard car

Lexus UK took inspiration from origami, the Japanese art of paper-folding, to create an entire car out of cardboard.

The vehicle is a full-size replica of the IS sedan. It took 1,700 pieces of cardboard to construct the rolling model.

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The recyclable sedan

Lexus's cardboard version of its IS sedan has a hidden frame underneath to help support an electric motor. Yes, the car can actually be driven.

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Side mirrors without mirrors

This mirrorless model of a side mirror is made from cardboard and connects to a full-size replica of the Lexus IS. A 3D model of the real car was used to design a version made from laser-cut slices of cardboard.

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Sit down on cardboard seats

Designers of the Lexus IS done up in cardboard had to tweak the seats to get them just right. The car may be made from paper products, but it can still be driven using an electric motor.

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Even the cupholders are cardboard

The interior of the Lexus IS is re-created in detail in this full-size cardboard model. Even the cupholders are there and sized to hold your favorite beverage.

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Right-hand drive Origami Car

Lexus UK built a life-size cardboard model of the IS sedan, which explains the right-hand drive steering wheel. Even the wheels are crafted from cardboard.

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Rear view of a cardboard car

This view from behind the cardboard model of the Lexus IS shows the dramatic contour lines created by the unusual construction materials. The replica was based on a 3D model of the actual car.

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Rolling wheels made from paper

Cardboard wheels grace a cardboard version of the Lexus IS sedan. The wheels actually roll. The builders installed an electric motor to allow the car to be driven. It's a life-size replica, but don't expect to see it cruising down your street.

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Lexus logo on cardboard car

This close-up of the grill of a cardboard version of the Lexus IS sedan shows the detail involved with gluing together 1,700 pieces of cardboard. The life-size re-creation can be driven due to an electric motor mounted on a metal frame.

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