Watch the Lexus LC 500 engine transformed into a 391kW beast [video]

The customised Lexus LC 500 showcased at this year’s SEMA is no doubt the star of the Lexus booth. But more impressive is what’s underneath the bonnet.

The Lexus 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 engine already incorporates leading-edge performance technologies such as direct-injection, dual VVT-i and VVTiE camshaft actuation. It pumps out a potent 470hp (351kW) from the factory. Not satisfied, the engine development division of Hard Media, Inc. increased its displacement and boosted its performance, with the aim of building something that could handle more than twice the factory’s power output.

The team increased the engine bore size from 94mm to 99.5 mm, effectively expanding its displacement from 4,969 cc (5.0L) to 5,569 (5.6L). Custom Moly-2000 Amphibian Sleeves from LA Sleeve and Custom Carrillo 4340 H-beam Connecting Rods were used.

As a result, power climbed from 470hp (351kW) to 525hp (391kW), while torque increased from 391 lb.-ft. (530Nm) to 440 lb.-ft. (596Nm). With an optimised engine mapping, the tuner claimed the race-prep engine is capable of producing even more power.

Watch the Lexus LC 500 engine build in the video below.