Entries Tagged 'lexus' ↓

An anonymous source has e-mailed what appears to be a digital press kit produced by Lexus for next week’s Geneva Motor Show. The pages of the kit reveal photos and details of the Lexus CT 200h five-door hybrid, set for a debut at the Geneva event.

Based on the LF-Ch concept from Frankfurt, the five-door hybrid is driven by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and magnet synchronous electric motor, which channel momentum to the front axle via a electrically-controlled contiously variable transmission. The motor is powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery. The car features four driving modes: EV, Eco, Normal and Sport. Coming in smaller than the Prius, the CT 200h measures 4,320mm x 1,765mm x 1,430mm (l x w x h).

Because we are talking about Lexus, the powertrain is hybrid, first violin being the 1.8 VVT-i engine and accompanied by an electric motor. The exact power is not specified, but in the brochure tis said that this model will have three running modes: Eco, Normal and Sport and that it will prove that hybrids can be athletes. The transmission will be continuously variable and will be called the E-CVT.

Lexus Introduces Second-Generation GX 460 Luxury SUV for 2010

* New 301-hp V8 with Six-Speed Transmission
* Standard 10 airbags and Available Pre-Collision System
* More Versatile Interior with a New Standard Power Fold Third Row

Lexus has introduced an all-new, second-generation GX 460 luxury utility vehicle for 2010 that is more powerful, more efficient, quieter and more luxurious than the GX 470 model it replaces. The 2010 GX 460 achieves all of these significant developments while its 10 standard airbags and the available Pre-Collision System help enhance safety.

Positioned between the brand’s LX 570 premium luxury utility vehicle and unibody-based RX models, the 2010 GX 460 combines “right sized” midsize packaging with family-friendly comfort and premium craftsmanship. The GX 460 has a standard seven-passenger configuration. Once again built with rugged body-on-frame construction, the 2010 GX 460 is also equipped with full-time four-wheel drive and the advanced Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) to help provide both exceptional on-road ride and handling and true off-road capability.

The 2010 Lexus GX 460 is powered by an all-new 4.6-liter V8 that is both more powerful and more efficient than the 4.7-liter V8 it replaces. The new engine produces 301 horsepower and 329 lb.-ft. of peak torque, and is teamed to a new six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. Combined city/highway fuel economy is improved by 13 percent to an EPA-estimated 17 mpg (vs. 15 mpg in the 2009 GX 470) — better than other V8 luxury utility vehicles and competitive with some six-cylinder models. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

With the same vehicle footprint as the GX 470 it replaces, the 2010 GX 460 provides a more versatile interior. The second row seat slides 4.1 inches fore/aft to maximize passenger and cargo carrying ability. The foldable and reclining second row seats also feature a 60/40 walk-in function to access the standard power fold-flat third row seats. The rear door window uses a flip-up glass panel for added convenience.

Luxury is enhanced in the 2010 GX 460 by an even quieter cabin, as well as new additional standard features and options. The 2010 GX 460 features standard heated and ventilated front seats for example. Among the new luxury options are semi-aniline leather, a heated steering wheel, and heated outer second-row seats. New multimedia features – both standard and optional – expand onboard family entertainment choices.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2010 GX 460 takes its model designation from an all-new 4.6-liter V8 engine. The new 32-valve DOHC engine features aluminum alloy cylinder heads and block with dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i), which controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to optimize power, fuel efficiency and emissions. (The previous 4.7 had VVT only on the intake camshafts.) Peak torque is also up for the new 4.6, now 329 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm vs. 323 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm for the 4.7-liter engine.

The new 4.6-liter V8 is teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, compared to a five-speed automatic with the previous 4.7-liter, benefiting both performance and fuel economy. The new transmission fits in the same space as the previous five- speed and features a higher top gear ratio. The new powertrain helps make the 2010 GX 460 feel more responsive in everyday driving and quieter than the previous model. The 2010 GX 460 retains the same 6,500-lb. towing capacity as the GX 470 offered.

The GX 460 comes equipped with standard full-time four-wheel drive using an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing center differential. It also offers a low range for off-road driving. The TORSEN differential distributes power 40:60 under most driving conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip.

The ability to change to a 30:70 ratio during steering maneuvers helps enhance vehicle tracking through curves. If the rear wheels spin, the center differential can change the ratio to 50:50 to help control the slippage. The TORSEN differential also helps make the GX 460 less prone to slippage caused by sudden changes in road-surface conditions, such as driving through a puddle or over an ice patch. The rear differential has also been strengthened for 2010.

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*Lexus’s 21st century supercar delivers extreme, race-bred performance, with advanced technologies and absolute exclusivity

*Powered by mid-front mounted 4.8-litre V10 engine with 9,000rpm red line

*Rear wheels driven through bespoke, rear-mounted six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG)

*Maximum power 552bhp, maximum torque 480Nm

*Nought to 62mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds, top speed 202mph

*Extensive use of advanced materials, including Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) construction and Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brakes

*Production limited to 500 examples

*UK launch price €368,000 (approximately £336,000)

INTRODUCTION

The new LFA marks an important moment in both the history of Lexus and the development of the supercar. A true “clean-sheet” design, the LFA was created by a small, passionate and dedicated team of engineers whose achievement has been to push the boundaries of technologies materials and engineering at every stage to produce a car like no other to have carried the Lexus badge.

Constructed using advanced carbon fibre technology, the rear-wheel drive LFA is powered by a bespoke, high-revving 552bhp 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine, matched to a rear-mounted six-speed sequential automatic transmission, giving 200mph-plus performance.

In the words of Chief Engineer Haruhiko Tanahashi: “The LFA is a thoroughbred supercar, a machine engineered to achieve a single goal – to deliver a supreme driving experience. Over the past decade we have pushed every boundary in pursuit of this goal and I believe we have created the most driver-orientated car we possibly could.”

CARBON FIBRE CONSTRUCTION

Keeping the car’s weight to an absolute minimum was one of the defining elements in the development of the LFA and this led to the decision to switch from using aluminium for the car’s construction to advanced Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) for the chassis and bodywork.

Moreover, Lexus decided the CFRP structure should be built in-house rather than by a third-party supplier. In doing so, it drew on Toyota Motor Corporation’s heritage in textile weaving technology to push the boundaries of its technical abilities, developing new carbon fibre looms and a laser system for monitoring the integrity of the material.

At four times the strength of aluminium, CFRP gives the LFA an exceptionally stiff and strong structure, and also delivers major weight advantages, saving around 100kg on an equivalent aluminium body. CFRP accounts for 65 per cent of the body-in-white, with aluminium alloy used for the remaining 35 per cent.

Unlike the few other vehicles on the market that use CFRP construction, the LFA uses the same advanced resin technology favoured by cutting-edge aerospace programmes for its unmatched weight and strength properties.

ENGINE

The heart of the LFA is a bespoke, naturally aspirated V10 engine that sets new standards for compact dimensions, lightweight architecture and scintillating performance. From the outset it was determined the engine should have a 4,805cc capacity, develop 552bhp and rev to a wailing 9,000rpm red line. A 72-degree angle between the cylinder heads is ideal for achieving balance in the engine for exceptionally smooth running, while providing individual, electronically controlled throttle bodies for each cylinder gives excellent throttle response.

Using a dry sump lubrication system allows the block to be positioned deep in the engine bay, lowering the car’s centre of gravity and moment of inertia, and enabling the engine to handle sustained, high-speed cornering.

The V10 produces 480Nm of torque at 6,800rpm, 90 per cent of which is available from 3,700rpm all the way to the 9,000rpm red line, thanks to Dual VVT-i technology, equal length exhaust manifolds and high-volume, 12-hole fuel injectors. This gives searing in-hear acceleration at all engine speeds and in any gear: nought to 62mph takes just 3.7 seconds and maximum speed is 202mph.

With a kerb weight of 1,480kg, the LFA has a power to weight ratio of 373bhp per tonne, while specific output of 115bhp per litre is among the highest of any current supercar, aided by a high, 12:1 compression ratio, low friction internals and optimised intake and exhaust flow.

In spite of its potency, the V10 is an object lesson in compact and lightweight packaging, being about the same size as a regular V8 engine and weighing about as much as conventional V6. It is also as reliable and refined as any other Lexus power plan and exceeds Euro 5 emissions standards.

The engine was developed in conoctction with Yamaha through the established collaborative partnership between Toyota Motor Corporation and the Japanese specialist engineering company.

TRANSMISSION

The formidable performance of the V10 is managed through an equally advanced transmission, a purpose-designed six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) that drives the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. To help achieve the optimum 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution, it is contained in a transaxle mounted over the rear axle.

The ASG is operated by paddle shifts mounted on the steering column and is engineered for exceptionally fast shifts: an upshift can be effected in just 0.2 seconds.

The system has four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Normal and Wet, activated by a selector dial on the dashboard. Each mode has a specific gearshift programme, and engine and brake control logic systems to let the driver tailor the car’s performance to suit driving conditions.

SOUND

The LFA’s acoustics, induction system and exhaust notes have been specially tuned to deliver an awesome “soundtrack” that expresses the car’s extreme performance, both outside and inside the cabin. Referred to by the acoustic team as “Octave Harmony”, it is inspired by the sound of a Formula 1 engine at full revs and is unlike that of any other road car, with different harmonic qualities created as the engine moves up towards its maximum 9,000rpm.

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LEXUS PRESENTS THE LF-Ch CONCEPT

World debut for new hybrid power compact concept car at Frankfurt

KEY POINTS

* Concept proposing the first Lexus full hybrid for the European premium compact segment
* Advanced interior design with asymmetric dashboard and Remote Touch controls
* Blacked-out B-pillars and concealed rear door handles create the look of a pillarless coupé
* L-finesse exterior styling with powerful surfacing and hand-sculpted details
* World debut at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show

Making its world debut at the Frankfurt motor show, the Lexus LF-Ch full hybrid concept is Lexus’s first approach to the competitive European premium compact segment.

It reflects the growing demand for cars that are smaller and more fuel and CO2 efficient, but with no compromise in levels of refinement and driving pleasure. By next year the compact segment is expected to claim the largest share of the European premium car market.

The LF-Ch concept reaffirms Lexus’s commitment to Europe, combining compact dimensions, stylish five-door, full hybrid technology and low emissions to satisfy the most demanding customer requirements and to appeal to a new, younger generation of customers.

Exterior design
The LF-Ch concept presents a powerful evolution of Lexus’s L-finesse design philosophy. Rooted in Japanese culture, L-finesse is expressed in every aspect of the car, not only in the visual harmony between the interior and exterior design, but also in the combination of leading-edge engineering and technology with a user-friendly simplicity of function.

The designers focused on the careful juxtaposition of opposing major and minor elements. Intriguing contrasts are created between the powerful, machine-like overall surfacing of the bodywork and the painstaking detail of even the smallest elements, creating a synergy between technologically driven design and a fluid, hand-sculpted quality.

A new, bolder Lexus grille design sits above a deep, full-width bumper and air dam, giving a perfect balance of precision and power. The sharply sculpted, aerodynamic front wings overlap the front bumper to create deep, front brake-cooling air intakes and give the LF-Ch a powerful and purposeful wide-track stance.

In profile, the tapered side glazing, a muscular, rising beltline and a sharply truncated rear overhang project the car’s premium compact character. The steeply raked windscreen, long flowing roofline, blacked-out B-pillars and rear doorhandles integrated in the C-pillar window trim combine to give the appearance of a sporting pillarless coupe.

At the rear the trailing edge of the roof overhangs the rear window to create an integrated rear spoiler. The tailgate section has a pronounced step, which flows from the muscular wheelarches and is anchored by the wraparound tail lamp design. Aerodynamic detailing of the lower bumper smoothes airflow from beneath the car and feeds ventilation to the rear brakes.

Subtle finishing touches include discreet Lexus hybrid blue badging and sharply tapering chrome mouldings. The harmonious synergy of the design is further expressed in the contrasting, lively yellow exterior finish and calming blue interior illumination.

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WORLD PREMIERE OF LEXUS LF-Ch AT THE 2009 FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

* World premiere of LF-Ch, the new full hybrid premium compact concept
* World premiere of the updated LS model range
* Model year updates for GS, IS and IS F

Lexus will unveil the LF-Ch full hybrid premium compact concept at the forthcoming 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It is joined on the Lexus stand by the world debut of the updated LS model range and revised versions of GS, IS and IS F.

Lexus LF-Ch

* Premium compact concept with Lexus Hybrid Drive
* Practical 5-door body, meeting the core needs of customers in the premium compact market

Reinforcing Lexus’ position as the only manufacturer to offer a range of hybrid vehicles, the LF-Ch concept will make its world premiere the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

LF-Ch combines stylish design and full hybrid technology in a practical 5-door compact package to fulfil the needs of the most demanding premium compact segment customers.

Benefiting from an electric-only driving capability, a key feature of Lexus Hybrid Drive, LF-Ch will allow for virtually silent urban driving with zero emissions.

Detailed information and images of the Lexus LF-Ch will be released on 10 September 2009.

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Lexus announces plans to again enter its “LF-A” premium two-seater sports car in the 24 Hours Nürburgring1 endurance race in Nürburg, Germany, from May 21 to 24, 2009.

Based on a prototype of the LF-A being developed with an eye toward commercial release, the race vehicle, entering the Nürburg event for the second year in a row, has been equipped with race-grade safety equipment, such as a roll cage and special fuel tank, and fitted with a spoiler and other aerodynamic features. Although engine, powertrain and frame specifications differ little from those of the base vehicle, the race vehicle has been retuned to better meet the demands of the course.

Engineers intend to use feedback from the grueling race to further enhance the LF-A’s performance. Also, mainly by employing young mechanics for technical support, TMC intends to use the race as an opportunity to develop human resources.

Specifications of Lexus LF-A Competing in 24 Hours Nürburgring Race

Vehicle name Lexus LF-A (racing specs)
Entry category/class Division 2 SP8 (engine close-to-production)
Team name GAZOO Racing
Engine Type V-10
Displacement 4,805 cc
Maximum output More than 367kW (500PS)
Body Length 4,530mm
Width 1,880mm
Height 1,200mm
Wheelbase 2,605mm
Material Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)
Vehicle layout Front-mid-engine, rear-mid-transaxle, rear radiator
Transmission Paddle-shift sequential, manual
Tires Front/rear size 305/30R20
Type Racing (Bridgestone)

Outline of 24 Hours Nürburgring Race

Name 37th 24 Hours Nürburgring1
Dates May 21-24, 2009 (main competition runs from May 23-24)
Venue Nürburgring (Nürburg, Ahrweiler, State of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany)

1Official name of this year’s race is 37th ADAC Zurich 24h-Race 2009

Lexus announces that sales of the “RX350″ in Japan started today and that sales of the “RX450h” are to start in Japan in April*.

Both RX models are the latest versions of the RX, which was previously unavailable in Japan. Next-generation crossovers that merge the luxurious ride and comfort of a sedan with the functionality of an SUV, they offer, at the highest levels, the environmental and safety performance demanded of 21st-century luxury vehicles. They are based on the concept of providing the superior excitement and driving comfort characteristic of a Lexus vehicle.

The new arrivals include such features as an advanced hybrid system with a V6 gasoline engine, the E-Four (electric four-wheel drive) system for outstanding driving and environmental performance, as well as a unique “dual-zone cockpit” that allows the driver to concentrate on driving. Other top-class features create a dynamism that sets the vehicles apart from other SUVs while providing a strong sense of safety and satisfaction.

* The “h” stands for hybrid and the “450″ refers to performance on par with that of a 4.5-liter conventional vehicle

1. Next-generation Crossover Design

Exterior

The exterior design, based on the Lexus design philosophy “L-finesse”*, combines a powerful wide-track stance with the sophistication characteristic of a Lexus vehicle.

The front consists of a single, solid form from the hood to the bumper. The exterior frame of the front grille extends to the headlights, which have the unique Lexus “arrowhead” profile.

- The fender and wheel arch merge with the body to express a powerful form.

- The cabin, which provides ample interior and cargo space, features quarter pillars with unique lines and side windows with optical molding, while the chrome-plated under-door molding draws in the lower part of the body and expresses high quality.

- The smooth and simple door handles feature touch sensors.

- At the rear, the fender projects outward and then merges into the bumper, while clear-lens horizontal taillights create a silhouette that projects stability. In addition, the adoption of a roof spoiler with a retractable rear-window wiper creates a clean look and excellent rear vision for the driver.

The front grill, front bumper, LED headlights, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and other unique design features – as well as the use of the exclusive “Lexus hybrid blue” on the symbol marks, the headlights, and the combination taillights – serve to express the RX450h’s advanced hybrid nature. “Quartz White Crystal Shine”, a color that appears to change depending on angle, lighting conditions and the position from which it is viewed, is exclusive to the hybrid model.

*Created by combining “leading-edge” and “finesse” design concepts

Interior

A unique cockpit delivers superb visibility and creates an environment that allows the driver to concentrate on driving, while the interior design conveys a sense of openness.

The HDD (hard disk drive) navigation system features a center-console-mounted “Remote Touch” interface that allows easy remote control of on-screen functions.

- The white organic electro-luminescence (EL) multi-information display, the first of its kind in the world*, boasts high contrast and outstanding visibility from a wide angle, and a multi-information switch for displaying and switching between various types of information.

- A heads-up display allows the driver to view a variety of information such as speed, lane information, and various warnings without the need for excessive eye movement.

- The multi-adjustable, electric driver’s and front-passenger seats, equipped with a cushion-length-adjustment function, provide proper support regardless of the occupant’s height.

- The distinctive design of the double-wishbone rear suspension provides five percent more cargo volume and easier loading.

*As of December 2008, according to TMC research

2. Environmental and Driving Performance at Highest Level

The RX450h is equipped with an advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system and the E-Four system, which incorporates the first Lexus V6 3.5-liter engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new inverter with excellent cooling performance to raise fuel efficiency, the result is the power of a 4.5-liter engine but with environmental performance that is one of the best in its class in the world.

- The Atkinson cycle engine delays intake and compression timing to generate a high expansion ratio with low compression, thereby limiting pumping loss during intake.

- An exhaust-heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time.

- A cooled exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system brings the pressure in the intake manifold close to atmospheric pressure, thereby reducing piston pumping losses and improving fuel economy.

- The power control unit inverter element has a dual-side cooling structure, resulting in substantial size and weight reduction of the unit and increased torque.

The RX450h features a switch-engaged Eco-drive Mode that prioritizes fuel efficiency by aligning driving force with accelerator use and by putting the air conditioner into a low energy consumption mode.

The RX350 combines a V6 3.5-liter engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive model features an Active Torque Control system that optimizes torque to the front and rear wheels depending on driving conditions, such as vehicle speed and road surface, achieving both excellent fuel efficiency and responsive handling.

Efforts were made to reduce CO2 emissions by improving fuel efficiency. The RX450h has a fuel efficiency of 16.8 km/l according to the JC08 test cycle of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT) and is one of the first vehicles to meet the 2015 Japanese fuel-efficiency standards. (Under the old 10-15 test cycle, the RX450h has a fuel efficiency of 18.8km/l. The two-wheel drive RX350 has a fuel economy of 9.7km/l under the 10-15 test cycle.) All Lexus RX models have emission levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the MLIT’s Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles and all vehicles qualify for incentives under the Japanese government’s Green Taxation System.

- Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System) – Toyota’s original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system – was used to achieve an overall reduction in environmental impact from the vehicle. Environmental targets were set at the initial vehicle development stage and a life-cycle assessment was carried out to achieve a reduction in air contaminants and CO2 from the vehicle throughout its life, from production and use to disposal.

- A review of the materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts resulted in a reduction in the amount of volatile organic compounds used, thereby reducing the sometimes discomforting odors emitted from such compounds and also meeting relevant voluntary industry standards.

3. High-Quality, Sporty Cruising

A new trailing-arm double-wishbone rear suspension was developed to achieve responsive handling and cruising stability along with an exceptionally comfortable ride.

An auto-leveling function ensures vehicular stability through precise control regardless of the number of occupants or amount of cargo. In addition, electronically controlled air suspension employing a height-control system allows three heights to be selected according to particular driving conditions.

When cornering, the RX450h’s electric active-stabilizer-suspension system operates motors located in the center of the stabilizers to maintain a proper banking angle, providing a highly responsive feel and a smooth ride.

The exceptionally aerodynamic design contributes to cruising stability and excellent fuel efficiency.

- Surface-level-difference between the headlights, windshield, and body have been minimized and the outer mirrors have been shaped to optimize air flow.

- The adoption of a rear spoiler and a flatter underfloor – particularly the use of plastic covers on components beneath the body and the rear lower arm – reduce air resistance.

- The use of rectifier fins to adjust air flow below the body contributes to outstanding handling and cruising stability at high speeds.

4. Excellent Safety Performance

Safety features were adopted in line with the Integrated Safety Management Concept*, which aims to create vehicles that do not cause accidents.

Side monitors that greatly expand field of vision (compared to earlier systems) are standard on all models. The monitors enhance safety by enabling the driver to clearly view the area near the left side of the vehicle and avoid obstacles that may lie within the turning radius.

Standard on all vehicles is the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system, which integrates control of drive power, steering and braking to achieve ideal handling performance and high-active safety performance.

The Pre-Collision System uses millimeter-wave radar to recognize possible frontal collisions. The front-passenger and driver-seat seatbelts (Pre-crash Seatbelts) retract in anticipation of the collision, while the Pre-Crash Brake Assist system decelerates the vehicle to reduce collision damage.

A total of 10 airbags – including dual stage Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags that match the speed of airbag inflation to the front-end collision force and SRS knee airbags- surround and protect occupants.

Front-seat active headrests that shift to a position to lessen stress on the neck and reduce the risk of whiplash injuries from a rear-end collision come standard.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. today announced that it will display the Toyota FT-EV concept on opening Media Day at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), confirming its plan to launch an urban commuter battery-electric vehicle (BEV) by 2012. This announcement, coupled with its compressed natural gas powered Camry Hybrid concept display at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show, signal Toyota’s intention to broaden the scope of its advanced alternative-fuel vehicle development.

“Now, more than ever, while we are so focused on the pressing issues of the moment, we cannot lose sight of our future,” said Irv Miller, TMS Group Vice President, Environmental and Public Affairs. “Nowhere is this more important than with our industry’s duty and commitment to provide true sustainable mobility with vehicles that significantly reduce fuel consumption, our carbon footprint and overall greenhouse gases.” The FT-EV concept shares its platform with the revolutionary-new iQ urban commuter vehicle. Already a huge hit in Japan, the iQ is lightweight and seats four passengers in comfort and security, while delivering exceptional mileage, sporty performance, unique refinements and a fun, youthful image.

Toyota’s FT-EV concept imagines an urban dweller, driving up to 50 miles between home, work and other forms of public transportation, such as high-speed rail. Although, for now, the FT-EV remains a pure concept, it represents a natural pairing of product strategies. Continue reading →

Lexus today revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. The HS 250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its lineup. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.

A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

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Lexus unveiled the all-new, next generation RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid at a press conference today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicle that pioneered the car-based luxury utility vehicle segment when it launched in 1998, is completely redesigned and will continue to set new benchmarks in areas that have made it the best-selling luxury utility vehicle: innovation, styling, performance, utility and comfort.

At the heart of the new RX models are two improved powertrains. Entering its second generation, the RX 450h will feature an enhanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine that runs on a highly efficient Atkinson cycle. Combined with a new, more efficient inverter, the total system output will be 295 horsepower, 27 more horsepower than the current generation RX hybrid.

Another step in the Lexus Hybrid Drive’s evolution is the addition of two new systems that improve its efficiency. The first is an exhaust-heat recovery system that reduces engine warm-up time allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. The result is an improvement in both fuel economy and emissions. The second is a cooled exhaust-gas recirculation system that reduces engine pumping losses, which also helps to improve economy.

The RX 450h features a front-wheel hybrid drive or an electronically driven, part-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid drive system, which supplies the rear wheels with the optimal amount of torque as conditions demand. Unlike mechanical AWD systems that reduce fuel efficiency via added weight and friction, the RX 450h’s rear-mounted electric motor-generator allows all four wheels to perform regenerative braking, charging the hybrid battery more effectively.

The third generation RX 350 will be powered by an improved 275-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to an electrically controlled, sequential-shift six-speed transaxle. The all-wheel-drive version will feature an Active Torque Control AWD system that optimizes torque depending on driving conditions, resulting in improved efficiency and performance.

Both RX models feature a new, uniquely designed double-wishbone rear suspension that helps provide exceptional agility and control. Its distinctive design also allows for five percent more cargo volume and easier loading. To complement the new rear suspension and provide excellent dexterity and ride comfort, the front McPherson strut geometry was optimized.

The all-new RX models possess a number of Lexus-first technologies that enhance the ownership experience. An available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) navigation system has an all-new “Remote Touch” controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic. Positioned on the center console, Remote Touch is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback. While RX will feature voice recognition as standard, the new navigation system will also include a new casual language voice-recognition system that acknowledges conversational commands. Standard XM® satellite-radio capability (requires subscription) is joined by XM NavTraffic and new NavWeather features.

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