Silvered-glass mirrors have been in existence for almost 200 years and there is a limit to their abilities when housed within a relatively small surround on a car door. Not only is the field of vision limited but the mirror itself is exposed to the elements and can only ever reflect ambient light. Lexus is therefore presenting a clear vision for safety and convenience with the introduction in the UK of the optional Digital Side-view Monitors for Lexus ES Takumi models.
The system replaces conventional door mirrors with compact, external, high-resolution cameras linked to in-car monitors. These provide an enhanced view of the area behind and immediately alongside the vehicle in all driving conditions, almost eliminating blind spots and adapting automatically to give an extended view when the car is turning or reversing.
Digital Side-view Monitors: design
The system is designed to fall within the driver’s intuitive line of sight, so there is no need to significantly change their natural mirror-checking action. However, the positioning of the mirrors on the inside of the car at the base of the A-pillars reduces the driver’s workload by requiring less left-right head movement.
The cameras are housed in slim, aerodynamic cases that complement the elegant lines of the ES, while their smaller size reduces wind noise and improves the driver’s forward diagonal view. The case is heated to avoid freezing or misting and the camera lens is located so that it is not vulnerable to being obscured by raindrops or snow.
The camera also features a luminescence sensor which automatically reduces headlight glare from following vehicles at night, giving the driver a clearer rearward view.
Digital Side-view Monitors: extended views
When the driver uses the indicators or selects reverse, the monitors automatically present an extended view of the area alongside and behind the car, almost eliminating blind spots and improving safety when manoeuvring (the system also incorporates a Blind Spot Monitor). When the action has been completed, the system automatically returns to the standard aspect.
The extended view function can be adjusted using the familiar control switches used for conventional door mirrors, while a menu function gives access to system settings. This includes a brightness control and automatic retraction of the camera units when the car is parked – a feature that is unique to this Lexus system.
Digital Side-view Monitors: reference lines
Reference guidelines for parking or driving are automatically added to the live image feed. When parking, the lines indicate 20 and 50cm distances from the vehicle, but when driving at speeds up to 44mph the reference lines indicate distances of five, ten and 15 metres. At highway speeds, a 30-metre increment is also added.
Digital Side-view Monitors: How much does it cost?
Available to order now, customers can specify the new Digital Side-view Monitor as an option on the Lexus ES 300h Takumi model only. It costs £1,600 including VAT.
Can these be retro-fitted? I bought and collected my ES300h Takumi model two days ago!
Hi Ken,
Thanks for getting in touch and congratulations on your new ES. Unfortunately, the digital side-view mirrors can’t be retrofitted.
How are you enjoying your ES so far?
Thanks.
I traded my LS600lh for the ES300h and haven’t regretted it. An absolutely wonderful model with so many safety features. Very well pleased, thank you!
Hi Ken,
Thanks for your message. We’re really pleased to hear you are enjoying your ES300h. The ES has been im production since 1989 and has since evolved through seven generations while always remaining true to its front-engine, front-wheel drive roots. You can explore its history further, here: https://mag.lexus.co.uk/lexus-es-history/
Thanks.
Hi,I have a RX330 (2004 model)Importedfrom Australia . Can I simply update the GPS by purchasing a UK / Europe DVD disk to change the country?
Bryan
Hi Bryan,
Thanks for getting in touch. Could you please provide us with the reg? We will then be able to discuss this further with our multimedia team.
Thanks.
How can I have the android app added to my ES multi media system?
Hi Gbenga,
Thanks for getting in touch. Could you please provide us with your reg?
Thanks.
I took delivery of my new Lexus ES takumi 3 weeks ago. The digital mirrors mist up internally in wet weather and as there is no heater fitted I am unable to clear them which renders them useless and unfit for purpose. I, therefore, consider them to be a total waste of money.
Hi there,
Thanks for your comment. We are extremely sorry to hear that you’re experiencing an issue with the digital monitors on your Lexus ES.
We have emailed you directly using the email address associated with your account with a view to rectifying this issue as quickly as possible.
Thanks.
i want to know wear i can get the Digital Side-view Monitors as a separate module ?
Hello Lakshitha,
Thank you for your comment.
We would recommend contacting Lexus in your region for further assistance.
Thanks.
How much replace a new digital side mirror if somebody broke that？
Hello Reus,
Thanks for your comment.
We would recommend contacting your Lexus Centre for more details on this.
Thanks.
Hi,
I’d like to order one, but I can’t seem to find the part number anywhere on the internet. I live in Florida. Can I have the part number and the website where i can order this from, please?
thanks
Hi Joe,
Please contact Lexus in your region for further assistance.
Thanks
I have digital mirrors I can’t get extended view to store in settings for the next time I have to select on every time I start the car. Is this normal.
Many Thanks
Paul
Hello Paul, thanks for your comment.
If you believe there is an issue with your vehicle, please contact your Lexus Centre.
Thanks.
Hi I have visited my local Lexus dealer like me they think you shouldn’t have to reset them each time .
They went through all they knew but couldn’t get it to stay on .
Hello Paul,
Please provide your Vehicle Registration so that we can look into this for you.
Thanks.
Many Thanks for replying.
The reg no is GY71FVV.
Look forward to hearing from you
I also have this problem, I can’t save the extended view when the turn signal is turned on, I have to manually adjust it every time! If you have solved this problem, send me an email on how to do it