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LS 600h

The new LS 600h adds Lexus’ revolutionary hybrid technology to the
unique values of L-finesse design, the world’s most advanced safety
technology and the highest possible standards in production, quality and
comfort expressed in the LS 460, to create a vehicle which explores the
outer reaches of luxury car performance, design, safety and efficiency,
whilst offering the ultimate in sophisticated and engaging driving
experiences.

From the outset, the Lexus philosophy has been to develop cars that
establish new frontiers in quality, luxury and performance through a
radical approach to advanced vehicle design, whilst stressing absolute
customer orientation at the very core of the marque.
in taking a leading global role in the development of performance hybrid
vehicles, Lexus has revolutionised the premium automotive segment
by awarding its customers a unique, sophisticated, intelligent driving
experience which utilises the ultimate in high technology power trains
to marry environmental responsibility with peerless quality and involving
driving dynamics.

Toyota Motor Corporation’s (TMC) credentials in developing
environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicles date back over 40 years to
65, when it began the investigation of the use of gas turbines to power
an electric drive system for cars. TMC’s inception of the Toyota Eco
Project in January was followed, in March, by the completion of
the Toyota Hybrid System (THS), a brand new powertrain in which a
petrol engine and an electric motor operate in tandem, each within their
optimum efficiency range.
THS was installed in Prius, the world’s first volume production hybrid
passenger car, which went on sale in the Japanese market in November
and has since sold over 6 ,000 units around the world. in
2005, the RX 400h SUV’s Lexus Hybrid Drive, a second generation
development of THS, introduced class-leading performance to the
equation through a 50% increase in electric motor power. And in
2006, the GS 450h became the world’s first hybrid luxury saloon, and
the first full hybrid to combine front engine mounting with rear-wheel
drive.

Following the RX 400h and the GS 450h, the new LS 600h luxury
flagship is the marque’s third vehicle to feature the revolutionary hybrid
system. Lexus remains the first, and only, premium automotive segment
manufacturer offering a comprehensive hybrid model range available
today.

The LS 600h introduces Lexus’ revolutionary, high-performance hybrid
drive technology to the flagship of the luxury marque for the first time.
The LS 600h is the world’s first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8
powertrain, combining a technologically peerless 5.0 litre petrol engine
with a powerful, high-output electric motor, a newly designed, largecapacity
battery pack, electronically controlled continuously variable
transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. As with the Lexus RX and
GS hybrid models, the LS 600h’s ‘600’ suffix refers not to the cubic
capacity of the engine but, rather, a power output comparable to that of
a conventional, 6.0L V 2 petrol engine.

This state-of-the-art powertrain technology will equip the LS 600h with an
unequalled balance of performance and environmental efficiency. A peak
combined output rating of over 2 kW/445DiN hp (*) offers the power
and performance of a normally aspirated V 2 engine. Conversely, the hybrid
Lexus flagship offers a class-leading combined fuel consumption figure of
less than .5l/ 00km(*) and CO2 emissions below 220g/km(*).
(*) Pre-homologation data, based on in-house testing

Owing to the inherent Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
improvements offered by its hybrid powertrain, the LS 600h is designed
to set a new standard for silent running in the premium automotive
segment, with an unparalleled depth and density of cabin quietness,
resulting in quite possibly the quietest luxury car in the world.
The long-wheelbase LS 600h L offers the ultimate ownership
experience with an additional 20mm dedicated entirely to rear
passenger legroom. it can be equipped with a range of comfort
features unique to this class, including reclining seats with leg rest,
a Rear Seat Relaxation System and a second DVD changer for
individualised rear seat entertainment. in addition, the LS 600h L
features innovative technology such as a rear seat cushion airbag
and a sophisticated, infrared, body heat sensing climate control
system to offer rear seat passengers the ultimate, st class luxury
travelling experience.

DESIGN
The new LS 600h is the ultimate expression of L-finesse, the unique Lexus
design philosophy, demonstrating that a premium automotive segment
saloon can be understated, yet inspiring.
L-finesse has its roots in the creation of a harmonious balance of contrasting
elements. The new LS 600h encompasses this design direction with
styling which is both vivid and forceful yet, at the same time, warm, inviting
and entirely contemporary. With its long cabin, broad, purposeful groundhugging
stance, and elegantly sculpted, streamlined body contours, the
hybrid Lexus luxury flagship emphasises simplicity and style in a stunning,
modern package.
The LS 600h may be differentiated from the rest of the LS model
range through discreet ‘hybrid’ badging, bespoke, hand-polished
alloy wheels, Black Opal –a hybrid-exclusive jet-black body colour
revealing blue and purple undertones in bright sunlight, and the world’s
first LED low-beam headlamps. The circumference of each of three
LED projector lenses is fitted with a transparent blue ring, giving the
Lexus hybrid flagship a unique, readily identifiable headlamp signature.
in addition, discreet blue detailing of the rear lights and the front logo
sets the LS 600h apart.
On board, the LS 600h may be further identified as the flagship of the LS
model range through a painstakingly crafted, full-leather instrument panel,
and the peerless finish of real wood highlights, including the gear shift lever
and over-door assist grips.

POWERTRAIN
The Lexus Hybrid Drive employed in the high performance flagship of the
LS model range combines an all new, longitudinally-mounted 5.0L V8
petrol engine with a high-output electric motor and a newly designed,
large-capacity battery pack. This state-of-the-art hybrid drive system
equips the LS 600h with an unparalleled balance of performance and
environmental efficiency.

Generating a peak combined power output of 2 kW/445DiN hp (*),
whilst delivering a class-leading combined fuel consumption figure of less
than .5l/ 00km (*) and CO2 emissions below 220g/km (*).
(*) Pre-homologation data, based on in-house testing

Hybrid System Components
Derived from the LS 460’s 4.6L powerplant with the stroke extended by
6.5mm and the bore unchanged, the new 5.0L V8 engine is a showcase
of precision mechanical engineering, the most technologically advanced
internal combustion engine ever to have been developed by Lexus
engineers. The painstaking development of high rigidity components,
optimum balance in all moving parts, minimisation of friction and
unprecedented precision of assembly awards the new V8 benchmark
performance in the fields of refinement and quietness.

To reduce the overall weight of the engine, the cylinder block is die-cast
from a lightweight, high strength aluminium alloy. The block structure and
rib reinforcement design have been finalised through the incorporation of
cylinder combustion pressure data to minimise both vibration and noise,
and the cylinder head cover is constructed in a lightweight magnesium
alloy to lower the powerplant’s centre of gravity.

In addition to an increase in cubic capacity over the 4.6L UR-FSE
powerplant, the new 2UR-FSE 5.0L V8 has undergone significant
component modification in order to handle its unprecedented power
output, including revisions to the pistons, crankshaft, connecting rod,
damper pulley, VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing intelligent by Electric
motor), exhaust manifold and all-wheel drive-compatible oil pan.

Due to the fuel economy penalties inherent in both the increase in engine
capacity and the LS 600h’s all-wheel drive system, Lexus engineers have also
fine-tuned numerous aspects of the powerplant’s operation, including adjusting
the operating angle of Dual VVT-i, to achieve a .0L-class fuel economy.

Furthermore, particular attention has been paid to the absolute minimisation
of Noise, Vibration and Harshness, as befitting the uniquely quiet operation
of the Lexus hybrid system. To minimise engine stop/start vibration, the
intake valve timing has been delayed to lower the compression ratio during
restarts. insulation materials have been applied to the cylinder head covers,
and the size and location of engine mounts have been optimised.

The new V8 features a D-4S stoichiometric direct injection system, the
world’s only high compression ratio injection system to adopt two injectors per
cylinder. it combines the strengths of both direct and port injection, realising
optimum engine efficiency throughout the power band and improving
torque by .5% across the rev range, whilst minimising fuel consumption
and emissions. D-4S also substantially reduces combustion fluctuations in
comparison to any conventional, direct or port injection system.

The 5.0L powerplant is also equipped with Dual VVT-i. This optimised,
low pressure loss, variable intake and exhaust timing system incorporates VVT-iE, the world’s first electric motor driven intake camshaft, which operates
across the full engine revolution and temperature spectrum. The LS 600h’s
Lexus Hybrid Drive employs a highly compact, three-phase, permanent
magnet AC synchronous type motor, operating on a 650 Volt current to
deliver more than 65kW/224DiN hp. Extensive remodelling of magnet
distribution has achieved extraordinarily quiet operation, whilst coiling the
magnetic alternate for optimum magnetic force retention has resulted in a
smoother, more stable motor rotation.

In addition to both petrol engine and electric motor power sources,
the hybrid system further comprises a generator, a high-performance
battery, a power split device which combines and re-allocates power
from the engine, electric motor and generator according to operational
requirements, and a Power Control Unit (PCU) to govern the high speed
interaction of the system components.

To optimise delivery of the Lexus hybrid system’s immense power, a
new, mechanical, all-wheel drive system offers superior traction and
handling stability, whilst a newly developed, two-stage motor-speed
reduction device and electronically controlled continuously variable
transmission offers smooth, linear power delivery and superlative
overtaking performance.

As in the GS 450h, the Lexus’ hybrid system electric motor, generator,
power split device and two-stage motor-speed reduction device are
all housed in one lightweight, highly compact transmission casing. The
combined installation of these components within a single casing directly
comparable in size to that of a conventional gearbox is fundamental to
the successful installation of Lexus’ sophisticated hybrid drive system in a
longitudinal, front-engined sedan platform.
Equipped with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable
Transmission, the LS 600h provides breath-taking, linear acceleration. As
the hybrid ECU selectively controls both engine and electric motor rpm, the
Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission simulates a
continuous variation of the transmission’s current ratio. Similar to that of the
GS 450h, the two-stage motor speed reduction device is automatically
and seamlessly switched between low and high motor reduction ratio
settings by a hydraulic control unit, generating maximum low-gear torque
for significantly enhanced acceleration, as well as extended high-gear
performance for quiet, high speed cruising with improved fuel efficiency.
Via a centre console mounted Mode Select switch, the new transmission
offers a choice of three power settings; ‘Normal’, for the optimum balance
of power and traction, ‘Power’, for maximum acceleration, and ‘Snow’, for
excellent traction control under the most slippery road conditions.

The hybrid system in operation
Over the course of any journey, Lexus’ Hybrid System operates in several
different modes to maximise the LS 600h’s overall efficiency: Under
operating conditions of low engine efficiency such as start up and low
to mid-range speeds, the vehicle runs on the electric motors alone, thus
eradicating both engine noise and CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the system
imbues the vehicle with similar in-gear ‘creep’ to that of a conventional
automatic transmission.
Under normal driving conditions, the ultra-efficient V8 powerplant
serves as the main power source. Engine output is divided by a power
split device to both drive the wheels directly and power the generator
which, in turn, drives the electric motors and simultaneously charges
the high-voltage battery. in these circumstances, power allocation is
constantly monitored and adjusted between engine and motors to
maximise efficiency. When sudden acceleration is required, engine and
electric motors again operate in tandem, with extra power supplied from
the battery to boost motor response, providing a superlative, seamless,
linear power delivery.

During deceleration and under braking, the combustion engine switches
off and the high-output electric motor acts as a generator to effect
regenerative braking, optimising energy management in the Lexus Hybrid
Drive by recovering kinetic energy (wasted as heat under braking and
deceleration) as electrical energy for storage in the high performance
battery.

When the engine is cold and the ignition is switched on, the system
will start the engine to warm the unit, running at an engine speed that
provides the highest possible efficiency. Thereafter, at rest, the engine
stops automatically to conserve fuel. However, if the vehicle is at idle for
prolonged periods, the engine will automatically run whenever necessary
to charge the high-voltage battery via the generator. Furthermore,
under all driving conditions, battery power level is constantly managed
via a hybrid ECU that prevents it from reaching extreme levels, hence
maximising battery life expectancy.
The Lexus hybrid powertrain delivers extremely smooth, linear acceleration,
with none of the expected ‘jumps’ between gears of a conventional drivetrain.
Under every driving condition, at whatever speed, Lexus Hybrid
Drive offers a significantly higher level of drive-train refinement than that of
a conventional powerplant.

DYNAMICS
The Lexus LS 600h features the world’s first, full-time, all-wheel drive hybrid
powertrain. The LS flagship further benefits from electrical air suspension
system, optional Active Stabiliser control and the second generation of
Lexus’ state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management (VDIM)
system incorporating Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) cooperation.

All-wheel drive
The LS 600h’s all-wheel drive features a three differential configuration
and a propeller shaft, coupled directly to the hybrid transmission. A
permanently engaged mechanical transfer system distributes drive power
with a ratio of 40% to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. A TORSEN®
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) was adopted for its highly responsive
torque distribution qualities, enhancing grip, traction, stability and vehicle
handling under all road conditions, whilst delivering the rear wheel drive
characteristics essential to a dynamic, premium segment sedan.
in order to accommodate the gear transfer without sacrificing interior
legroom, Lexus engineers rejected even the smallest and lightest
TORSEN® LSD system currently available, developing a new unit some
0% smaller and lighter than any in existence, with both transfer and
differential housed in a single casing.
Air Suspension with Active Stabilisers and Adaptive Variable
Suspension (AVS)
Featuring a significantly revised front suspension configuration to harness
the power of the LS 600h’s all-wheel drive transmission, The Lexus
flagship’s all-round multilink suspension system utilises new pneumatic
cylinder operating in co-operation with an improved Adaptive Variable Suspension system (AVS), which features a vehicle posture control
system to synchronise vehicle roll and pitch when cornering, for maximum
passenger comfort. The Lexus hybrid flagship further benefits from Active
Stabilisers to reduce body roll when cornering and, hence, achieve the
LS 600h’s excellent dynamic abilities.

The Active Stabiliser system features an actuator centrally located on both
front and rear stabiliser bar. The actuator comprises a DC brushless motor
with attendant reduction gear, capable of applying torque to both left and
right hand sections of the stabiliser bar. A system ECU calculates the twist
torque output required based on sensor fed steering angle and vehicle
velocity information. The twist force applied to both front and rear stabiliser
bars by the highly responsive system controls vehicle roll motion, reducing body roll angle to promote ensured vehicle stability, superior cornering
performance and improved agility through enhanced steering response.

Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) allows the driver to fine tune the
LS 600 h’s ride characteristics with a choice of three damper settings
activated via a switch adjacent to the gear lever; ‘Normal’ mode, for everyday
driving, ‘Comfort’, for improved comfort on more degraded road surfaces,
and ‘Sport’ mode, for improved body control and precise responses to
steering input whilst cornering. in any mode, AVS automatically adjusts the
performance of the suspension at all four wheels independently, monitoring
data from numerous sensor locations to continuously optimise the damping
force of each shock absorber through incremental steps via actuators.
Simultaneously, VGRS automatically reduces the steering gear ratio by
approximately 0% whilst the Electric Power Steering (EPS) simultaneously
increases steering assist torque by some 4%. These measures combine to
minimise body roll, sharpen vehicle handling and optimise steering feel for
the ultimate in sports sedan driving.

A new damping force control logic is incorporated within the Adaptive
Variable Suspension system to minimise the phase difference between
body roll and pitch angles during cornering. Research by Lexus engineers
has revealed that a large phase difference between roll and pitch angles
can cause driver discomfort by exacerbating the perception of vehicle
body roll while cornering.

This phase synchronisation elicits a smooth, controlled roll whilst cornering,
with a well-matched vehicle response to steering, yaw and roll, and an
enhanced perception of rear tyre grip.

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
The new LS 600h is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus’
state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management (VDiM)
system, specifically developed in conjunction with the Lexus hybrid
flagship’s all-wheel drive transmission to enhance traction control and
vehicle stability. With comprehensive status data provided by sensors
throughout the vehicle, VDiM integrates the LS 600h’s Electronically
Controlled Braking (ECB), Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic
Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle
Stability Control (VSC) active safety systems with the Adaptive Variable
Suspension (AVS), Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Variable Gear
Ratio Steering (VGRS) systems.

Unique to the Lexus flagship, the LS 600h drive-train’s Driving
Response and Acceleration Management System (DRAMS) also
affords VDiM unprecedented interaction with both engine and
transmission, employing engine and electric motor output control
to effect a faster, smoother and more precise response to situations
involving the possibility of a loss of traction, such as mid-corner gear
changes.

Whereas conventional active safety systems are only activated
immediately after a limit of the vehicle’s performance envelope
has been reached, VDiM progressively engages before that limit is
realised. As a result the system offers smoother vehicle behaviour at
this threshold through less obtrusive intervention and, hence, a more
pleasurable drive.

PreVentIVe SAFety And drIVer ASSIStAnce SyStemS
Appropriate to the high-performance flagship of the Lexus brand, the new
LS 600h is a showcase of numerous revolutionary developments in the
field of preventive safety technology, based on the principle of accident
avoidance through intelligent anticipation. Unique to the luxury hybrid
saloon, the LS 600h is also equipped with the world’s first application of
low-beam LED headlamp technology.
Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS)
A significant development of the system already featured in the iS and
GS model range, the LS 600h’s Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system
(Advanced PCS) offers maximum assistance to the driver in collision
avoidance, either by day or night. The Advanced PCS now incorporates
four world firsts; an Advanced Obstacle Detection System, a Driver
Monitoring System, Emergency Steering Assist and a Rear Pre-Crash
Safety system. These sophisticated innovations alert the driver to potentially
hazardous situations, promote optimum vehicle responsiveness during
evasion manoeuvres and reduce the consequences of a collision.
Advanced Obstacle Detection System
The Advanced Obstacle Detection System combines information sourced
from both a millimetre wave radar and an infrared stereo camera. The
millimetre wave radar is mounted within the LS 600h grille, scanning
the road ahead. The stereo camera consists of two near-infrared CCD
lenses mounted 50mm apart at the head of the windscreen, which
transmit digital video images. Near-infrared projectors built into the highbeam
function of the headlamps help obstacle detection at night, beyond
the range of the low-beam headlamps. Subject to weather conditions,
the Advanced Obstacle Detection System can identify a wide range of
obstacles, including, for the first time, pedestrians.
Driver Monitoring System (DMS)
The Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system also features the world’s first Driver
Monitoring System. This system employs a CCD camera, mounted on top
of the steering column cover, which is equipped with six built-in near infrared
LEDs to give an identical detection performance by day or night.
First using an algorithm to detect the position of the facial features (eyes,
nose and mouth) and measure the width and centre line of the face, the
Driver Monitoring System is able to monitor the movement of the driver’s
head when looking from side to side. if the driver turns his or her head
away from the road ahead at an angle of more than 5 degrees whilst the
vehicle is in motion and an obstacle is detected in front of the LS 600h, the
Front millimeter-wave
radar
Rear millimeter-wave
radar
Stereo camera
ADVANCED PRE-CRASH SAFETY SYSTEM system will automatically activate the Pre-Crash warning buzzer function
and even briefly apply the brakes to alert him to the situation. if the driver
does not respond immediately, The PCS system will automatically engage
the subsequent operational sequence of the Pre-Crash functions.
Emergency Steering Assist
Through a close interaction between the Variable Gear Ratio Steering
(VGRS), Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management (VDiM) and Adaptive
Variable Suspension (AVS) systems, Emergency Steering Assist substantially
improves the LS 600h’s response to the driver’s steering input in the
likelihood of a collision, increasing the chance of avoiding the obstacle.
To effect a rapid evasion manoeuvre, the VGRS actuator reduces the
steering gear ratio to provide more direct steering and a faster response to
driver inputs. Simultaneously, the AVS suspension adopts a stiffer damper
setting to minimise body roll, optimising chassis balance for an improved
vehicle response to sharp steering inputs. in addition, VDiM offers selective
brake control through the integration of the LS 600’s active safety systems
to maintain vehicle stability throughout the evasion manoeuvre.
Rear Pre-Crash Safety system (RPCS)
Operating whether the LS 600h is stationary or in motion, the Rear Pre-
Crash Safety system employs a millimetre-wave radar installed within the
rear bumper to constantly scan the area around the back of the vehicle. if a
collision is deemed unavoidable, the system automatically activates the front
seat Pre-Crash intelligent headrests, which move up to 60mm forwards
and 25mm upwards to cushion the occupant’s head in anticipation of an
impact, greatly reducing the risk of whiplash injury.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Full-Speed Following Function
Complementary to the Advanced PCS system, the LS 600h also features
a new Adaptive Cruise Control with Full-Speed Following Function. As
with standard ACC, the system offers two modes -constant speed control,
and vehicle-to-vehicle distance control- but is now capable of operating at
any vehicle speed between 0 and approximately 0 km/h.
The vehicle-to-vehicle distance control system employs both the millimetrewave
radar sensor and stereo imaging camera of the Advanced Obstacle
Detection System. Thanks to the system’s full-speed range following
function, aclose proximity distance measuring ability, the new Low Speed
mode enables ACC to operate in slow or congested traffic for the first
time, and, with limited braking and acceleration performance, the system
can both bring the Lexus flagship to a complete standstill, and accelerate
away once the road ahead is clear.
LED Low-Beam Headlamps
The LS 600h is equipped with the world’s first application of low-beam
LED headlight technology, offering excellent illumination and significantly
improved durability over conventional lighting systems.
Based on multiple LED lamp design principles explored in the LF-X
concept car, the new system employs a 5-lamp low-beam configuration.
Three upward oriented LED lamps focus high intensity illumination directly
ahead via an overlapping horizontal array of three projector lenses.
The remaining two, downward oriented LED lamps employ a shielded
parabolic cylinder to create wide angle light projection the three projector
lenses are fitted with a transparent blue ring, giving the Lexus hybrid
flagship a unique, readily identifiable headlamp signature.
The LS 600h’s low-beam LED lamps boast instantaneous lighting, in
approximately 0. seconds, emit a white-light colour closest to that of
natural daylight and have an lifespan longer than conventional lighting
systems, with minimal degradation in light intensity. The combination of
a three lamp projector array and twin lamp parabolic reflector optimises
illumination across the full width of the road ahead, significantly improving
visibility of the opposite side of the road with no increase in glare to
oncoming traffic.
ULtImAte LUXUry: the LS 600h L
The new, long-wheelbase LS 600h L measures 5 50mm in length. With
identical front and rear overhangs to those of the standard, 50 0mm
long Lexus LS 600h, the additional 20mm extends the wheelbase of
the LS 600h L to 0 0mm, and is entirely dedicated to increased rear
passenger legroom and comfort.
Offering unparalleled st Class travelling luxury in the premium automotive
segment, the rear of the long-wheelbase hybrid flagship cabin can be
equipped with a reclining, heated and ventilated seat featuring a unique
massage facility, the world’s first human body temperature sensing airconditioning
system, and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a
separate DVD player and retractable, ceiling mounted, ” full-colour
screen. To these features is added the 5. home theatre entertainment
experience of the Mark Levinson Reference Surround System.
The peerless refinement and performance of the state-of-the-art V8
engine and hybrid system, combine with the ultra-luxurious rear seat
amenities of the long-wheelbase Lexus flagship to realise the world’s most
sophisticated, technologically advanced driving experience.
Multi-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Unique to long-wheelbase versions of the Lexus flagship, Multi-zone
Automatic Climate Control is the world’s most advanced climate control
system, and incorporates the first human body temperature sensing control
ever employed within a climate control system.
Multi-zone Automatic Climate Control uses a total of 4 sensors,
including a unique, roof-mounted infra-red sensor to measure climatic
conditions in 8 different cabin matrix cells, including every passenger
location. in addition to three out-flow temperature sensors for the separate
temperature zones (one at the front, two at the rear), two front face duct
sensors, an external temperature sensor, two solar sensors for front and
rear seats and a pressure sensor, the system also features both front and
rear cabin evaporation sensors. in response to information provided by
these two sensors, intake air is first cooled according to its humidity, then
dried and heated to the desired temperature. This avoids the sore throat
feeling that can be generated by conventional air conditioners.
Measuring the body temperature of each occupant enables the Multi-zone
Automatic Climate Control system to assess their specific thermal comfort
and then instigate bespoke adjustments to each of the air-conditioning
system’s four independent zones.
if, for example, a passenger enters the vehicle feeling particularly hot, the system
will automatically adjust the climate in his or her immediate environment to a
cooler than normal setting for as long as necessary to bring body temperature
down to satisfactory levels. Similarly, if a passenger enters the vehicle feeling
very cold, the system will automatically boost warming to the relevant zone until
the infrared sensor registers the required body temperature.

No less than 20 individual outlets distribute warm or cold air throughout
the cabin of the new LS 600h L. Besides B-pillar outlets, rear seat
passengers benefit from the world’s first Roof Climate Diffusers. Mounted
above each outer rear seat, the generously sized Roof Climate Diffusers
offer unparalleled climate control around a passenger’s head and neck.
By diffusing low-volume, fresh cooling air directly into the area of the rear
passenger’s heads, the Roof Climate Diffusers fully counteract the effects
of roof and rear window absorbed solar radiant heat, something impossible
to achieve with conventional roof or B-pillar outlets.
The LS 600h L adopts a high output climate control system, designed
to quickly generate and maintain an adequate interior climate, which has
been tested to excel in even the most extreme weather conditions. The
maximum air flow volume to the cabin in heating mode under driving
conditions is 550 m /h (660 kg/h). This powerful air conditioning
system adopts a variable-displacement compressor. This allows the
air conditioning system to work only as it is needed - and therefore
economically.
The LS 600h L further benefits from a heat exchanger with integrated
PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating elements. This system will
warm the cabin area as quickly as possible after vehicle start-up, before the
engine itself has reached a sufficiently high running temperature to supply
heating to the air-conditioning system.
Multi-zone Automatic Climate Control also operates in co-operation
with the individual heating and fan-assisted air-conditioning system of the
LS 600h L’s front and rear seats. The activation of any seat air-conditioning
system is taken into consideration by a semi-conductor, heat exchange
element. This element automatically adjusts the temperature of the air
blown by the seat fans, optimising passenger comfort at the required
temperature settings.
Reclining Rear Seat with Leg and Footrest
The new LS 600h L can be equipped with two, individual, full leather rear
seats, divided by a bespoke centre console which is finished in a range
of real wood and genuine leather trims perfectly matched to the interior
colour scheme.
As with the front seats, the rear seat bases incorporate a three-dimensional
net, tailored to the characteristics of human muscles, to enhance both
vibration damping and support during high-speed cornering. The seats
feature power adjustment, operable both via the centre console control
panel and a remote control unit. Both rear seats can be reclined and also
include a centre seatback flexing function.
in addition, the rear seat diagonally opposite that of the driver (the right
hand seat in LHD vehicles) can be reclined to a maximum of 45 degrees
and further features a fully retractable ‘ottoman’ thigh and footrest for the
ultimate in limousine seating comfort. To enhance legroom when fully
reclined, the travel limit of the front seat has been extended by 40mm.
One touch of a rear centre console button automatically reclines the rear
seat and extends the ottoman thigh and footrest, whilst simultaneously
folding down the front seat headrest and moving the entire seat forward
to its maximum point of travel. Opening the front passenger door
automatically returns the front seat to its foremost standard position and
raises the headrest.

Rear Seat Relaxation System
Coupled with a conventional vibration massage system, the rear seat diagonally
opposite that of the driver is equipped with a new, air-assisted massage system
incorporating a remote air pump, located in the luggage compartment to
ensure silent operation. The system is based on the technology and operational
qualities of the best massage chairs on the market today. it features a total of
eight air pockets covering the area of the occupant’s shoulders and back,
and reproduces professional massage techniques with a range of different
programmes -the intensity of which may be adjusted by the user- including
Shiatsu, shoulder and lower back acupressure.
SRS Rear Seat Cushion Airbag
The ‘ottoman’ rear seat also incorporates a new seat cushion airbag
–unique to this segment- which activates during frontal impact, inflating
the front area of the seat base to help reduce the forward and downward
motion of the occupant’s pelvis.
Rear Seat Entertainment System
The Lexus LS 600h L Rear Seat Entertainment System features a separate
DVD/CD player and retractable, ceiling mounted, ” full-colour VGA
screen for the 5. home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark
Levinson Reference Surround System.
in addition to a rear screen-dedicated DVD/CD player, the rear
centre console houses a storage compartment for DVDs, CDs and
headphones, a 4L cool-box, cup holders, a retractable table, remote
controls for both the massage programme and entertainment system,
and a control panel for the operation of the air-conditioning, seats and
sunshades. The LS 600h L features power sunshades to both rear and
side door windows, including the rear quarterlight. As with the glovebox
and front centre console, all rear centre console compartment lids offer
seamless operation at the touch of a fingertip.
The Rear Seat Entertainment System DVD/CD player employs the
5 channel, 450-Watt RMS amplifier and loudspeakers of the peerless
Mark Levinson Reference Surround system, reproducing ‘discrete’ 5.
sound via a surround sound . channel speaker topology. The fully
independent, rear seat home theatre system incorporates a power
operated, retractable, ceiling-mounted, ” full colour LCD screen.
Whereas DVD playback on the front Electro Multi Vision screen stops in
order not to distract the driver, the rear unit will continue to screen DVDs
whilst the LS 600h L is in motion. The high definition, wide screen, full
colour display has now evolved from EGA to VGA (800 x 480 pixels)
and replaces the previous system’s 256 colour range with a remarkable
2,000 colours.
The system also incorporates an RCA plug within the centre console,
facilitating the connection of various portable devices such as a games
console or video camera. Furthermore, two sets of headphones may be
connected to the system simultaneously, allowing rear seat passengers
to enjoy the full breadth of rear seat entertainment available aboard the
LS 600h L without distraction to the driver or front seat passenger.

LS 600h PRELIMINARY TECHINCAL SPECIFICATIONS
System Series/parallel full hybrid
System output 2 kW
Engine 5.0L V8 with D-4S injection
Dual VVT-i, VVT-iE for intake
Transmission All-wheel drive
Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission with
two-stage motor speed reduction gear
Electric motor AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max. output Over 60kW
Voltage 650V
High-voltage battery Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
Combined fuel economy Less than .5L/ 00km
Combined CO2 emissions Less than 220g/km

Credit: Lexus Europe

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

I'm dizzy.

Tons of B.S. and repetition in all that, but the car sounds amazing.

Love the fact that they have front and rear active stabilization available, that it's AWD, and should go like a quiet rocket.

Och

iTrader: (3)

Yeah, sounds great on paper, but still TTV12 > V8 hybrid.

TRDFantasy

Incredible. The climate control system co-operates with the heating and cooling system of the seats.

MR_F1

V12 TT < 15mpg.
Electric motor = Instant low down torque.

Don't get me wrong. I'd love to see a V12, or even better a V12 TT LS. In an LS-F perhaps?


The AWD system described in this release intrigues me. I thought it was gonna be a system similar to the RX, but I guess I was wrong. Cool.

Colour me impressed. Wonder how much more will it weigh than the regular 460L. And about the trunk space.

Also what of this electronic air suspension.... I guess then it wont be featuring the bose magnetic suspension as rumored some time (long time) aback?

TRDFantasy

The LS hybrid has a fully mechanical AWD similar to the GS350 AWD. This AWD system is said to be soon available on regular LS models.

MPLexus301

iTrader: (3)

What is that total system output, in horsepower?

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

My guess is 300-500lbs.

Depends on if you get the exec. pkg - didn't we see before that hybrid + exec package will leave just 7 cu. ft of trunk space or was that the GS450h?

No, the air suspension sounds the same AVS as available on LS460[L] although it also has the active stabilizers like on the GS450h only it's on rear AND front, which is GREAT.

I don't think it's a stretch to say that this might be the most complex car ever built.

Gojirra99

Lexus.com have 7.5 cu.ft. vs. Lexus.ca 's 8.1 cu.ft for the GS450h.
Nothing official yet on trunk space of LS600hL + exec.package, but probably about the same as the GS450h.

LS460L + exec.package trunk space is 12 cu.ft., so the 600hL hybrid should be smaller than that . . .

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

Isn't that because you don't get **** in Canada??

spwolf

anyone has link to the PR? A lot of numbers are missing from one posted here... thanks

and yeah:
- ****
- full leather dashboard
- more wood
- AWD

nice

Bercasio

iTrader: (1)

One thing I noticed...even though it's AWD, the hybrid version does not mention an 8 speed transmission???.... can any of you guys confirm this?

Gojirra99

The LS600hL will come with a dual-stage continuously variable transmission (CVT) .

rominl

iTrader: (4)

so it's pretty much confirmed that there will be **** at least in the europe 600h, umm.... i am just praying for that in the US.

encore888

The card key should come with this model too...