New Hybrid Info
12-17-03, 07:29 PM
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New Hybrid Info
When Lexus announced a new luxury hybrid vehicle, it naturally raised a lot of questions. Not just from people in the automotive industry, but from interested drivers like you. You'll find your top 10 queries listed below, along with many surprising answers.
Can a hybrid vehicle truly be luxurious?
Undeniably, yes. Remember, this isn't just another hybrid vehicle. It's a Lexus. So rest assured, the Lexus hybrid will feature everything you've come to expect and appreciate in our current luxury vehicles.
Aren't hybrids slower than conventional vehicles?
Not the Lexus hybrid. In fact, it's been engineered to be more powerful than similar vehicles with conventional engines. The electric motor increases the overall horsepower from 230 hp to 270 hp. So in addition to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, you can also look forward to a noticeably faster 0-60 acceleration.
Aren't most hybrids still in the experimental stage?
The Lexus hybrid certainly is not. Our parent company, Toyota, has had hybrid vehicles in real-world use since 1997, and they've been just as reliable as their gas-driven counterparts. The new Lexus hybrid will feature the same proven hybrid technology.
Aren't hybrid vehicles just a fad?
Hybrid vehicles are definitely not a fad. They're the latest advancement in automotive technology. Vehicles with hybrid engines have been on the road for more than six years. And, since that time, the popularity of these cars has only increased. No wonder so many major auto manufacturers are racing to get their own hybrid vehicles into the showrooms. People appreciate the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions and convenience that a hybrid offers. And soon they'll have even more to appreciate: when Lexus introduces the first luxury hybrid vehicle in history.
How do hybrid vehicles work?
Hybrids are equipped with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Depending how much power the vehicle requires at any given time, the system selects the most appropriate power source for the job. The electric motor is usually more than adequate for city driving. While the extra power of the gasoline engine helps out on freeway on-ramps and steep inclines. What's more, the entire process is so seamless, you probably won't even realize it's happening.
Will it really be safe?
Absolutely. It may be a hybrid vehicle. But first, it's a Lexus. Which means, the Lexus hybrid is required to meet the same exacting safety standards as our conventional vehicles. Ensuring you a comfortable ride, as well as peace of mind.
How long do the batteries last?
The batteries in the Lexus hybrid are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and require no additional maintenance. You won't even need to recharge them, since the gasoline engine takes care of that during normal use.
Are there specific maintenance issues with hybrid vehicles?
The Lexus hybrid will require no special maintenance. Just the same routine service appointments as our conventional vehicles.
Are hybrids really that fuel efficient?
Hybrids are actually quite fuel efficient. While they're equipped with a full-size gas tank, they use less fuel because the electric motor does so much of the work. For instance, when the Lexus hybrid comes to a stop, it may switch from the gasoline-powered engine to the electric motor and then switch back once the extra power is needed. What does all this mean for you? Fewer visits to the pump.
Are hybrids truly better for the environment?
Hybrids are definitely better for the environment. They use their gasoline engines less, so they burn less fuel, and subsequently emit fewer pollutants into our atmosphere. In addition, the electric motors operate in silence, so even noise pollution is reduced.
Can a hybrid vehicle truly be luxurious?
Undeniably, yes. Remember, this isn't just another hybrid vehicle. It's a Lexus. So rest assured, the Lexus hybrid will feature everything you've come to expect and appreciate in our current luxury vehicles.
Aren't hybrids slower than conventional vehicles?
Not the Lexus hybrid. In fact, it's been engineered to be more powerful than similar vehicles with conventional engines. The electric motor increases the overall horsepower from 230 hp to 270 hp. So in addition to reduced fuel consumption and emissions, you can also look forward to a noticeably faster 0-60 acceleration.
Aren't most hybrids still in the experimental stage?
The Lexus hybrid certainly is not. Our parent company, Toyota, has had hybrid vehicles in real-world use since 1997, and they've been just as reliable as their gas-driven counterparts. The new Lexus hybrid will feature the same proven hybrid technology.
Aren't hybrid vehicles just a fad?
Hybrid vehicles are definitely not a fad. They're the latest advancement in automotive technology. Vehicles with hybrid engines have been on the road for more than six years. And, since that time, the popularity of these cars has only increased. No wonder so many major auto manufacturers are racing to get their own hybrid vehicles into the showrooms. People appreciate the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions and convenience that a hybrid offers. And soon they'll have even more to appreciate: when Lexus introduces the first luxury hybrid vehicle in history.
How do hybrid vehicles work?
Hybrids are equipped with both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Depending how much power the vehicle requires at any given time, the system selects the most appropriate power source for the job. The electric motor is usually more than adequate for city driving. While the extra power of the gasoline engine helps out on freeway on-ramps and steep inclines. What's more, the entire process is so seamless, you probably won't even realize it's happening.
Will it really be safe?
Absolutely. It may be a hybrid vehicle. But first, it's a Lexus. Which means, the Lexus hybrid is required to meet the same exacting safety standards as our conventional vehicles. Ensuring you a comfortable ride, as well as peace of mind.
How long do the batteries last?
The batteries in the Lexus hybrid are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and require no additional maintenance. You won't even need to recharge them, since the gasoline engine takes care of that during normal use.
Are there specific maintenance issues with hybrid vehicles?
The Lexus hybrid will require no special maintenance. Just the same routine service appointments as our conventional vehicles.
Are hybrids really that fuel efficient?
Hybrids are actually quite fuel efficient. While they're equipped with a full-size gas tank, they use less fuel because the electric motor does so much of the work. For instance, when the Lexus hybrid comes to a stop, it may switch from the gasoline-powered engine to the electric motor and then switch back once the extra power is needed. What does all this mean for you? Fewer visits to the pump.
Are hybrids truly better for the environment?
Hybrids are definitely better for the environment. They use their gasoline engines less, so they burn less fuel, and subsequently emit fewer pollutants into our atmosphere. In addition, the electric motors operate in silence, so even noise pollution is reduced.
12-17-03, 08:53 PM
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I was expecting a little more total horsepower than 270. With the added weight, I wonder how much quicker this car will be than a regular 330.
Also, it appears that there will be just one electric motor - this makes me wonder if it will power the front wheels only, and if it will be a front wheel drive vehicle only.
Also, it appears that there will be just one electric motor - this makes me wonder if it will power the front wheels only, and if it will be a front wheel drive vehicle only.
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