This year’s April Fool’s joke by the company is a bit gross.
Lexus teams up with 23andMe, a popular genomics company, to create one of the most bizarre April Fool’s jokes ever. To build the best vehicle possible for every client, the automaker examines each person’s DNA in order to select the right model and options. It is not pleasant to take personal preferences out of the car-buying experience, especially in a manner that looks straight out of the show Black Mirror.
This fictitious program is called Genetic Select by Lexus, and it’s shown in the video below. A buyer arrives at the dealer and pours his blood into a vial. A new car arrives a few days later with the options that best suit the customer’s needs. Lexus’ video shows some fake upgrades, including tinted glass and larger cup holders.
There are also some more unusual options. The DNA of a buyer indicates a shorter stature so the suspension on her RC F is lowered. The cabin is scented with lavender and cauliflower because it knows her favourite smell. The windshield is customized to her prescription because she wears glasses that are nearsighted.
The best part is that the vehicle responds to the buyer’s DNA. To increase security, the owner must lick the steering wheel in order to start the engine. This will ensure that you don’t have to worry about someone stealing your car.
This year, automakers have been slow to release their April Fool’s Day jokes. Honda presented a CRV Roadster. This was the only major one. Although it’s a great idea, don’t expect to see a topless Honda CR-V on the roads anytime soon.