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Lexus LS (XF40)

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Lexus LS Hybrid
Lexus LS 600h
Lexus LS 600h
Overview
ManufacturerLexus
Production2007–present
AssemblyTahara, Aichi, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size hybrid luxury car
Body style4-door sedan
LayoutF4 / AWD

The Lexus LS Hybrid is a gasoline-electric hybrid version of the Lexus LS series of flagship luxury sedans. Introduced in 2006 at the New York International Auto Show, the hybrid LS models include the standard wheelbase LS 600h and long wheelbase LS 600h L. Both vehicles are powered by a 5.0L V8 engine equipped with electric motors, with a continuously variable transmission and all-wheel drive. The LS 600h L is sold in major global markets in North America, Asia, and Europe, while the LS 600h is sold in Asian and European markets. The Lexus LS hybrids are the first production V8-powered full hybrid vehicles.[1]

The debut of the LS hybrids were preceded by the concept for the fourth generation Lexus LS, the LF-Sh, which premiered at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. The LF-Sh also featured a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive. Lexus subsequently debuted these technologies in production form with the launch of the LS 600h and LS 600h L. At its introduction, the LS 600h L became the most expensive luxury vehicle produced in Japan, with a sticker price of approximately $125,000.[2]

First generation (UVF45 / UVF46)

LS 600h / LS 600h L
(UVF45 / UVF46)
Lexus LS 600h
Lexus LS 600h
Overview
Production2007–present
AssemblyTahara, Aichi, Japan
Powertrain
Engine5.0 L 2UR-FSE V8
Transmission8–speed continuously variable transmission
Dimensions
WheelbaseSWB - 116.9 in (2969 mm)
LWB: - 121.7 in (3091 mm)
LengthSWB - 198 in (5029 mm)
LWB - 202.8 in (5151 mm)
Width73.8 in (1875 mm)
HeightTemplate:Auto in

Lexus introduced the LS 600h L (UVF46), the world's first V8-powered full hybrid, at the 2006 New York International Auto Show. A standard wheelbase version destined for Asia and Europe, the LS 600h (UVF45), was unveiled in Japan in April 2006. Sales for both vehicles were targeted at a mid-2007 release. The LS 600h and LS 600h L were positioned as the halo vehicles of the Lexus LS series, and equipped with the highest levels of technology and luxury features ever offered on the Lexus flagship.[1] In addition to BMW 760Li, the LS 600h L aimed compete with the range-topping Mercedes-Benz V12 S-Class models (e.g. S600), whose prices exceed $120,000. After its press debut, the LS 600h L's price was speculated to be higher than any previous Lexus,[3] and on April 6, 2007, Lexus announced that the U.S. base price for the LS 600h L would be over $104,000.[2] With a price reaching six figures, the LS 600h L elevates Lexus into the ultra-luxury stratum for the first time.[4][5] For 2007, Lexus announced the LS 600h L "Launch Edition" for the first 100 LS hybrids sold in the U.S, sold through upscale department store Neiman Marcus.[6]

By March 2007, the initial allocation of LS hybrids in the U.S. was nearly sold out, with 1,850 preorders placed months before debut.[2] As of October, 2007, Lexus sold 6,093 LS 600h's worldwide. When the LS hybrid originally went on sale in July 2007, Lexus initially targeted 7,000 total units for the year.[7] Ward's Auto and other media outlets have reported that the Lexus LS 600h first year's (2007) allocation was entirely sold out and that there was a one year backorder as a result.[2][8] The LS hybrid's environmental impact characteristics prompted several company executives[9] and heads of state to acquire the vehicle.[10][11][12] In 2008, Lexus increased the trunk space in the LS hybrids by 20%, due to a redesign of the rear battery area.[13]

Powertrain

UVF46 Lexus Hybrid Drive system.

The long wheelbase LS 600h L is equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive, featuring a 5.0 L 2UR-FSXE V8 engine mated to a high-output electric motor with nickel-metal hydride battery packs. This system generates an output of 438 hp (327 kW), comparable to V12 sedans such as the BMW 760Li (which also produces 438 hp). The LS hybrid features all-wheel drive with a Torsen limited-slip differential, is equipped with a two-stage continuously variable transmission (CVT) along with the Adaptive Variable Air Suspension, and achieves an environmentally-friendly Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating.

The LS 600h L mileage, at 20 mpg city, 22 highway, and 21 combined, is slightly higher overall than the lower-powered non-hybrid 460 L's 16/24/19 mpg numbers (these are EPA 2008 model-year figures).[14] In Europe, the LS 600h has been rated at Template:Auto Lkm, the LS 460 at Template:Auto Lkm.[15] The transmission features a three-mode power switch for control of torque output between hybrid (normal), power, or snow modes; an additional EV mode allows for ultra-quiet driving under full electric power. Because of the silent nature of its hybrid design, the LS hybrid is among the quietest sedans ever built.[1]

Hybrid-only features

LS 600h L Executive Class rear seat.

Features specific to the LS hybrids include the first production LED headlight systems in the United States of America,[1] a leather-trimmed dash, two-tone leather, additional wood trim, and multi-zone climate control with infrared body temperature sensors. A different multi-link front suspension, expressly developed for the LS 600h/LS 600h L, is standard, while an optional Active Stabilizer Control system for the air suspension provides further stability during high-speed maneuvering. A unique black opal color option and differently-hued trunk "600h," "hybrid," and Lexus emblems further distinguish the LS hybrids. The standard SmartAccess key fob can also be substituted with a SmartAccess wallet-sized "smart card"; at just 3.35 millimeters thick, the "smart card" is the world's thinnest automobile smart key.[16]

Additional luxury features are more commonly equipped on the hybrid LS models; in some specifications, the "Executive Class" seating on the LS 600h L includes a rear seat DVD entertainment system with ceiling fold-down LCD screen, fixed center console with a swivel tray table, and a passenger-side shiatsu and shoulder massaging ottoman seat.[17][18] Japanese market LS 600h sedans also feature MiniDisc compatibility, television reception, onboard security surveillance cameras, and remote cellphone access.[19]

Safety systems

LS 600h front cabin with Driver Monitoring System.

In the United States, a new active safety feature called the Driver Monitoring System debuted on the LS 600h L sedan.[1] The Driver Monitoring System uses a CCD camera placed on the steering column to track driver attentiveness by eye tracking.[20] Using infrared LED detectors, this system will respond if a collision is imminent and the driver not paying attention[21] (a warning alarm will sound followed by a brief automatic application of the braking system). This system is said to be the first of its kind.[20]

The Pre-Crash System on the LS hybrids (Pre-Collision in the U.S.) offers forward and rear protection. The Frontal Pre-Crash system will activate a warning buzzer and red dash lights to alert the driver if a potential hazard is detected in the vehicle's path.[21] If the system detects a potential collision, the system will adjust steering and braking responsiveness. If a collision is determined to be unavoidable, the seatbelt pretensioners will activate, and the brakes will automatically engage to slow the vehicle.[22]

The Rear Pre-Crash system, the first active rear collision safety feature in an automobile,[23] utilizes trunk-mounted obstacle detection and warning systems to react in anticipation of an emergency. In addition to driver alerts, if a rear collision is deemed unavoidable, sensor-equipped Pre-Crash Intelligent Headrests in the front seats will adjust position upwards (up to 25 mm) and forwards (up to 60 mm) to cradle the head during impact to reduce the risk of whiplash.[24] In the U.S., the inclusion of the rear Pre-Crash system is pending FCC regulatory approval.[25] The pre-collision system and additional safety features are shared with the fourth generation LS 460/460 L.

Awards

  • Limo of the Year. Lexus LS 600h, Top Gear's Car of the Year awards (2006).[26]
  • World's Most Beautiful Automobile Awards. Lexus LS 600h, Limousine category, L’Automobile più Bella del Mondo (2007). At the 15th Annual L’Automobile più Bella del Mondo (World's Most Beautiful Automobile) awards, held at Sforzesco Castle in Milan, the LS 600h and LS 460 scored the first and second spots, respectively, in juried competition.[27]
  • Best Luxury Car. Lexus LS 600h (and LS 460), Fleet World Honours (2007, 2008). Presented first at the Royal Automobile Club in London in May 2007.[28] In 2008, the LS was a repeat winner at the Fleet World Honours as Best Luxury Car.[29]
  • CAA Pyramid Award for Safety Innovation. Lexus LS 600h L, Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and CAA-Quebec. (2008). For the Advanced Pre-Collision System on the LS Series.[30]
  • Top Ten Least-Polluting Luxury Cars. Lexus LS 600h L, Forbes Autos (2008). The LS ranked in the top three next to the RX 400h and GS 450h, measured by tailpipe emissions.[31]
  • Chauffeur Car of the Year. Lexus LS 600h L, The Chauffeur magazine (2008). In the £50-100k segment, the LS hybrid won versus competitors from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.[32]
  • Best Dream Machine. Lexus LS 600h L, Driver's Choice Awards, MotorWeek (2008). Named along with the Audi R8 and Bentley Continental GT Speed, in the category for vehicle purchases where money is no object.[33]

Figures

Sales data for the Lexus LS hybrid are as follows.[8][34]

Generation Model(s) Calendar year Total sales units (U.S.) Total sales (global)
UVF45/<br?>UVF46
LS 600h/
LS 600h L
2007 937 6,093
2008 907 n/a

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e Peterson, Thane. "Lexus' New Luxury V8 Hybrid" (HTML). BusinessWeek. Retrieved 2006-12-01. {{cite web}}: Text "2007-02-14" ignored (help)
  2. ^ a b c d "Japan Report: Lexus LS600hl To Displace Toyota Century As Japan's Priciest Auto". Winding Road. 2007-05-08. Retrieved 2007-10-01. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help) Cite error: The named reference "ultraluxe" was defined multiple times with different content (see the help page).
  3. ^ Welch, David (2006-01-09). "A Lexus Aimed at Mercedes' S-Class" (HTML). BusinessWeek. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  4. ^ Maynard, Micheline (2006-04-17). "Lexus enters ultra-luxury arena". International Herald Tribune. Retrieved 2007-11-21.
  5. ^ Ofria, Charles (2007). "2008 Lexus LS600h L Road Test Review, ultra-luxury group". FamilyCar.
  6. ^ "Lexus Rolls Out LS 600h L Launch Edition Via Neiman Marcus". Edmunds.com. 2007-01-04. Retrieved 2008-05-28.
  7. ^ Lexus sells 6,093 LS 600h Hybrids in 5 months
  8. ^ a b "Lexus sells 6,093 LS 600h Hybrids in 5 months". eGMCarTech. 2007-12-04. Retrieved 2009-01-26.
  9. ^ Madslien, Jorn (2008-03-16). "Lexus hybrid woos Sainsbury's chief". BBC News. Retrieved 2008-05-28.
  10. ^ "Le Prince Albert roule en LS 600" (in French). Motorlegend.com. 2007-06-07. Retrieved 2007-09-28.
  11. ^ "Engin peningasóun" (in Icelandic). Visir.is. 2007-07-07. Retrieved 2008-05-28.
  12. ^ Johansen, Magne (2008-02-05). "King gets fancy new car". Aftenposten.no. Retrieved 2008-05-28.
  13. ^ Nagpal, Sahil (2008-11-05). "More luggage space for Lexus hybrid models". TopNews.in. Retrieved 2008-11-15. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  14. ^ "U.S. Government fuel economy ratings". Retrieved 2007-11-27.
  15. ^ Combined cycle; Lexus.it LS 600h data and Automobil Revue, catalogue edition 2007, p. 296.
  16. ^ "DENSO Develops New Advanced Products for Lexus LS460" (HTML). Denso Corp. 2006-09-25. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  17. ^ Peterson, Thane (2007-02-14). "BusinessWeek - Lexus LS 460: More Luxury for Less" (HTML). BusinessWeek. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  18. ^ Ofria, Charles (2006-08-30). "Familycar 2007 Lexus LS 460 Preview" (HTML). FamilyCar.com. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  19. ^ "Lexus LS Japan Specifications" (in Japanese). 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-09.
  20. ^ a b "LS460 achieves a world-first in preventative safety" (HTML). NewCarNet.co.uk. 2006-08-30. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  21. ^ a b "Auto Bild Safety Comparison LS460 vs. S550" (HTML) (in German). Auto Bild. 2006-12-05. Retrieved 2007-04-09.
  22. ^ "Lexus LS 460 safety features" (HTML). Lexus.co.uk. 2006. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  23. ^ Kageyama, Yuri (2007-02-11). "Rear collision warnings part of Toyota's safety features" (HTML). Associated Press. Retrieved 2007-04-08.
  24. ^ "Lexus Introduces World's First Driver Monitoring System". BusinessWeek/Gizmag. 2007-09-07. Retrieved 2008-05-28.
  25. ^ Tayman, John (2006-03-15). "Business 2.0 What's cool: The self-parking Lexus LS 460L". CNNMoney.com. Retrieved 2007-02-01.
  26. ^ "Top Gear Car of the Year: the final shortlist". Top Gear. 2006-12-13. Retrieved 2007-05-15.
  27. ^ "Assegnato a Milano il premio L'Automobile più Bella del Mondo 2007" (in Italian). Virtual Car. 2007-11-09. Retrieved 2007-11-18.
  28. ^ "Lexus LS wins Best Luxury Car in Fleet World Honours". Easier Motoring UK. 2007-05-18. Retrieved 2007-05-18.
  29. ^ "New awards for Lexus LS". NewCarNet.co.uk. 2008-05-14. Retrieved 2008-05-18.
  30. ^ "Lexus awarded 2008 Pyramid Award for Innovation in Safety". Canadian Driver. 2007-01-18. Retrieved 2008-04-13.
  31. ^ Gorzelany, Jim (2008). "Top 10 Cars That Pollute the Least". ForbesAutos. Retrieved 2008-04-13.
  32. ^ Joseph, Noah (2008-04-10). "Jag XJ and Lexus LS named Chauffeur CotY". Autoblog. Retrieved 2008-04-13.
  33. ^ "Motorweek 2008 Driver's Choice Awards". Motorweek. 2008. Retrieved 2008-04-13.
  34. ^ U.S. Department of Energy HEV sales figures
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