Opening the Hybrid Door

Automotive dealer Lexus of Dublin collaborated with visual-communications firm Chute Gerdeman Retail One (CGR1, chutegerdeman.com) in Columbus, Ohio, to launch a revamped showroom highlighting the features and benefits of the hybrid Lexus HS250h. “A major design challenge was how to best illustrate the intricate interplay of gas and electric systems within the car’s engine,” says CGR1’s Allison Short. The solution: a series of acrylic panels placed in front of the HS250h, with gas components shown in blue and electric shown in green – creating an X-ray effect. CGR1 designed and fabricated the three 48 x 66-inch heat-bent acrylic panels, which were reinforced in key locations by gluing additional acrylic blocks for structural support. Graphics were output using an EFI Vutek QS3200 printer onto General Formulations Clear Static Cling vinyl; a backing layer of white ink helped increase visual contrast between the vehicle and the panels’ information graphics. “The display really starts the conversation with customers,” says Rick Germain, the owner of Lexus of Dublin. “It instantly opens the door to discussing hybrid technology.”

CHUTE GERDEMAN RETAIL ONE
www.chutegerdeman.com