Lexus unveiled the all-new 2006 LS 600h hybrid luxury sedan at a press conference today at the 2006 New York International Automobile Show. Scheduled to arrive in Europe in June 2007, the all-wheel drive LS 600h will be the world's first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain.
Lexus LS 600h was developed to explore the outer reaches of performance, style and safety. It is a vehicle as practical and efficient as it is indulgent: an advanced, far-reaching concept in full bloom, fully developed and fully realized. It is simply in a class by itself.
V8 HYBRID SYSTEM
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system in the LS 600h builds upon the legacy established by RX 400h and GS 450h to combine an all-new five-litre V8 petrol engine with large, high-output electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack. This advanced combination will provide the LS 600h with an unmatched balance of environmental efficiency and performance, furnishing the hybrid with a peak combined output rating of more than 435 DIN hp (320 kW).
To distribute this immense power, a new mechanical all wheel-drive system is utilized for superior handling stability. The LS 600h also employs a newly developed dual-stage electronically-controlled, continuously-variable transmission (E-CVT). This combination results in linear power delivery and impressive passing speed.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system found in the LS 600h is the automotive industry's most advanced petrol-electric hybrid system developed to date, providing power and performance on par with modern 12-cylinder engines while still delivering best-in-V8-class fuel efficiency.
Owing to the inherent NVH improvements offered by its hybrid powertrain, the LS 600h is designed to set a new standard for silent running in the prestige-luxury sedan class. The depth and density of cabin quietness in the LS 600h required extensive re-engineering of accessory motors and switches.
As a result of a scrutinous engineering technique and NVH measurement, the hybrid LS will be one of the quietest automobiles ever built.
LEXUS LS 600h PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
Length (mm) 5,030 Width (mm) 1,875 Height (mm) 1,475 Wheelbase (mm) 2,970 Engine type 5.0-litre V8 petrol/permanent magnet electric motors Transmission type 2-stage E-CVT, all-wheel drive Max. power (DIN hp/kW) Over 435/320 Emissions rating EURO IV
