Lexus LFA Versus Supermodel in New Video

Just the Facts:

• A Lexus LFA runs multiple high-speed donuts against a bikini-clad supermodel in a new video posted on YouTube by Lexus.
• The video is linked to a four-page spread in the 2011 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue.
• It is the second hook-up to the swimsuit issue by an automaker in as many days. Nissan pitted supermodels against the Juke in a series of videos released on Tuesday.

TORRANCE, California — A Lexus LFA is pitted against a bikini-clad supermodel in a new video posted on YouTube by Toyota's premium brand and done in conjunction with the 2011 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue.

The video features Rhys Millen, the champion drifter, behind the wheel of the LFA on the polished concrete floor of an airplane hangar. Dutch supermodel Rianne Ten Haken trots out in bare feet and a yellow bikini to match the car before it revs up and the shooting begins. "Do not be afraid of the car," intones the photographer speaking through a bullhorn. Afterward, she says: "It moved so quickly I didn't realize what was going on.... Thank God I didn't really see how close it got to me."

The video is part of Lexus' ongoing "The Hard Way" advertising campaign.

In a statement, Lexus said the model was "at a distance of just 4 feet" from the LFA. It described the video as a "new kind of eye candy."

"A gorgeous supermodel with wind blowing through her hair isn't unusual to see in the annual Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition," Lexus said. "But when that wind is created by a Lexus LFA supercar screaming by, it's definitely something to check out."

Millen has been lending his name to a number of automotive campaigns recently, including the rollout earlier this month of the Hyundai Veloster rally car at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show.

The swimsuit issue is becoming quite a platform for automakers. Yesterday, Nissan announced a partnership (http://www.insideline.com) with Sports Illustrated on the 2011 swimsuit issue. It released a series of videos pitting supermodels against the Nissan Juke (http://www.insideline.com/nissan/juke/2011/long-term-test-2011-nissan-juke-sl-awd.html).

Inside Line says: Expect copycats. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent