LS 600h L Hybrid Sedan: The Ultimate Lexus
Torrance, CA – When the 2008 LS 600h L hybrid
luxury sedan launches this summer it will provide the highest level of
performance and technology, and the truest expression of luxury of any
Lexus ever created. The hybrid model elevates the LS to a new level,
expanding Lexus and its presence among the ever more discriminating
customer.
"The LS 600h L will stand as the flagship for the Lexus brand by providing
the highest level of technical advancements, ride comfort, safety and luxury
of any vehicle in our lineup," said Jim Farley, Lexus group vice president
and general manager. "Its development process mixed the old and the new.
The old, through a Lexus-established build process that achieves an extraordinary
fit and finish only attainable by our master craftsmen, and the new with cutting-edge
engineering innovations. Through this combination the LS 600h L raises our own
quality expectations and may rank among the most technologically advanced automobiles
in the industry."
Lexus Hybrid Drive
The all-new LS 600h L will be powered by the ultra-quiet Lexus Hybrid Drive
system, the automotive industry’s most advanced gas-electric hybrid system developed
to date that features the world’s first full V8, all-wheel-drive (AWD) hybrid
drivetrain. The system combines a new 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine with two
powerful electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack that
is lighter and extremely quiet. Together, this advanced combination provides
the LS 600h L with an unmatched balance of environmental efficiency and performance.
The LS 600h L’s Lexus Hybrid Drive system provides power and performance on
par with competitors normally aspirated 12-cylinder powerplants. The hybrid
powertrain generates a peak combined output rating of 438 horsepower and can
effortlessly accelerate the LS 600h L from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds.
Mid-range acceleration is even more impressive. The system’s electric motor
is capable of delivering maximum torque, on demand, and is most beneficial during
passing maneuvers. Finally, exhilarating torque is in abundance at higher speeds
as the LS 600h L rapidly accelerates from 50-70 mph in a rapid 3.5 seconds.
The innovative V8 features an electric-motor driven Variable Valve Timing with
intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE). This combination
of VVT-i with electric-motor driven intake and a hydraulically controlled two-way
exhaust system achieves superior engine-startup operation and high-output performance.
A newly developed Hydrocarbon Adsorber and Catalyst (HCAC) system is linked
to the two-way exhaust to help prevent hydrocarbons contained in the exhaust
from being released into the atmosphere during cold start up when the catalysts
are not up to temperature.
The LS 600h L’s high-output performance is matched with a preliminary MY08
EPA-estimated miles-per-gallon fuel efficiency rating of 20 in the city, and
22 on the highway. Its combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg is equal to or
better than the combined fuel-economy ratings of many V6 all-wheel-drive mid-sized
luxury sedans.
The LS hybrid is expected to carry a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV)
rating. A SULEV rating means the LS 600h L has nearly 70 percent cleaner smog
forming emissions than vehicles with a conventional internal combustion engine
and cleaner than the ambient air in some major cities.
An added benefit to Lexus Hybrid Drive is the significant reduction in noise,
vibration and harshness (NVH) it delivers to the LS 600h L. The new V8 is tuned
to reduce vibration and sound by adding additional sound insulating materials
around the cylinder head covers. Additional NVH reduction is achieved by reducing
damper pulley tensions and perfecting engine mount sizes and locations through
repeated testing by Lexus engineers. The NVH levels in the LS 600h L are approximately
half those found in other luxury cars, making it one of the quietest automobiles
ever built.
"Full Hybrid" Powertrain
The LS 600h L is defined as a "full hybrid," capable of operating
in electric-only mode or with a combination of the gas engine and electric motor.
In contrast, other hybrid technologies require constant gas operation and are
not capable of running only on electric power alone. Lexus hybrid technology
allows electric-mode-only operation at low speeds or stop-and-go driving conditions,
reducing fuel consumption and noise.
The hybrid system in the LS 600h L uses a 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
compact battery pack installed behind the rear seat. The trunk also contains
a 12-volt auxiliary battery that powers the audio, navigation, and other systems.
The battery’s power is directed through a "boost converter" that efficiently
raises voltage to a maximum 650V DC. An inverter changes this to AC, providing
it elevated power to a 165-kW electric motor that turns at a rate of as much
as 10,240 rpm. Lexus engineers devised a higher output inverter that both increases
output by 10 percent and makes it compact in size and weight for easy mounting
in the engine compartment.
The LS 600h L’s powertrain uses two motor generators: MG1 and MG2. Each performs
specific functions and can operate as either a motor or a generator, although
MG1 is used as a starter motor and provides no motive force. The engine-driven
generator, MG1, can charge the battery pack or provide additional power to the
drive motor, MG2, as needed.
Full-Time All-Wheel Drive
The vast power of the LS 600h L is distributed by a newly developed full-time
AWD system that delivers superior handling and traction control. This state-of-the-art
system adapts to almost any road surface to help provide excellent vehicle stability
during acceleration, high-speed driving and cornering while also delivering
the natural handling feel of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
The outstanding performance of the AWD system is accomplished through a new
transfer case that is ultra quiet, compact and equipped with a unique Torsen®
limited-slip differential (LSD) that is 30 percent lighter in size and weight
than previous Torsen® systems. To maximize the AWD system’s performance,
the LSD features a rear biased torque distribution of 40:60 under normal straight-line
driving. The LSD automatically and continually adjusts power distribution between
the front and rear wheels according to changing speed and road conditions.
The micron-polished finish of the gears in the transfer case renders remarkably
low noise levels. Placement of the LSD inside the transfer case further reduces
noise and helps eliminate the raised-floor tunnel, providing enhanced interior
comfort.
Extraordinary Hybrid Transmission
The LS 600h L features a dual-stage electronically controlled continuously variable
transmission. The combination of a V8 5.0-liter AWD system and hybrid transmission
results in impressive power and seamless acceleration.
The dual-stage electronically controlled continuously variable transmission
includes eight-speed sequential braking. The sequential braking mode is activated
when the shift lever is in the "S" mode, allowing eight different
stages of response. When up-shifting, engine speed is controlled by the selected
range, offering an exhilarating boost in acceleration during each of the eight
shift stages. When downshifting, brake-force increases allowing for an equally
exciting deceleration.
Power is controlled by a three-mode hybrid switch to allow the driver the most
effective use of torque output. The driver can select "hybrid" (normal),
"power," or "snow" options. The "hybrid" mode
provides the smoothest operation and is ideal for city or suburban driving;
"power" sharpens accelerator pedal response and "snow" mode
softens accelerator pedal response, making it easier to accelerate on slippery
road surfaces.
For the ultimate in quiet driving and low emissions the LS 600h L features
an EV drive mode. By pushing an EV switch, power reverts to full electric mode
for short-distance, slow driving situations such as residential areas or parking
garages.
Optimum Fuel Saving Technology
The LS 600h L is equipped with a power-steering system and air-conditioning
compressor that are electrically powered to reduce parasitic losses to the engine,
thereby helping improve fuel consumption. This is necessary because, as a fuel-saving
benefit of the hybrid system, the gas engine often shuts down, particularly
when the vehicle is stopped or driven slowly in traffic. Additionally, demand
on the air conditioner is reduced through the use of ultraviolet and infrared
ray-reducing tinted glass on all windows.
A regenerative braking system further boosts efficiency. When the vehicle is
coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators,
capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes
and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries.
Responsive Handling
The powerful acceleration of the LS 600h L is matched by responsive handling
that includes a class-leading turning radius while maintaining the ultra-comfortable
ride that has become synonymous with all Lexus vehicles. Lexus engineers developed
multi-link front- and rear-suspension systems to achieve outstanding adaptability
to unevenness in road surfaces, including a new multi-link front suspension
exclusive to the LS 600h L. This new suspension helps overcome under-steering
and drifting situations common when driving an AWD vehicle at high speeds. A
newly developed front suspension and an optional active stabilizer help maintain
exceptional vehicle control and ride comfort during high-speed lane changes
or driving on winding roads.
External cylinder-restriction air springs smoothly absorb shock, achieving
ride comfort without roll sensation or vibration due to road conditions. A standard
air suspension control system helps maintain superb vehicle posture and stable
driving performance with minimal pitching and rolling.
The LS 600h L is equipped with large front- and rear-ventilated disc brakes
and standard 19-inch, seven-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires.
These special wheels receive extensive buffing, and their shape is meticulously
analyzed to create a form with shade depths that shift when the vehicle is in
motion.
The LS 600h L is controlled by Electronic Power Steering (EPS), which delivers
a smooth steering feel that supports the multilink suspension and large-diameter
tires. The EPS motor creates a steering impression that responds to the driver’s
touch and provides a responsive feel when cornering.
Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) is integrated into the steering-gear housing
to optimize the steering gear ratio according to vehicle speed, enhancing responsiveness
and driver control. VGRS also partners with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated
Management (VDIM) system, making minor adjustments to the front-wheel angle
to help provide improved stability in challenging road conditions.
Elegant Styling and Appointments
Over the last three years, Lexus has developed its L-finesse styling philosophy.
This new design language rests upon the inherent contrast between simplicity
and elegance, and the beauty of achieving a balance between the two. Like the
LS 460, GS, IS and ES, the all-new LS 600h L flagship adopts this philosophy,
revealing a family resemblance in the new Lexus sedans – one that conveys
elegance, refinement and a strong emotional appeal.
With the new LS 600h L, designers have achieved a new level of meticulous detail,
polished excellence and engaging comfort that is unique to Lexus. Styled at
the Global Design Center in Tokyo, the LS 600h L uses complex lines and surfaces
throughout the body. Exterior design cues embody a dignified strength, yet a
sense of emotion and aggressiveness is exemplified in the continuous flow of
the hood and bumper. The LS 600h L adopts the forceful profile, portraying a
sense of power combined with an image of increasing speed. Minimal body gaps,
a low front grille and deep-drawn fenders all contribute to this look.
Stylish projector-type headlamps with blue crystal rings, which also include
the world’s first night-time LED low beams, provide excellent visibility and
contribute to the LS 600h L styling theme. Blue accents on the front headlamps,
taillamps, badging, engine cover and the SmartAccess key fobs and Smart Card
key are unique to the
LS 600h L.
Passenger space and luxury comfort were the primary focus of the interior cabin
design. Genuine semi-analine leather is featured throughout the cabin, its rich
appearance softened and structured with additional stitching to create a relaxed
atmosphere. The leather-trim extends beyond the seats and onto the instrument
panel, upper front doors and door armrests. The center console adds to passenger
comfort and convenience through perfect angle placement for ease of use from
either the driver or front passenger seat and is placed at the same height as
the door armrests for a comfortable balance. Additional luxury touches unique
to the LS 600h L includes a wood-trimmed and chrome-plated shift knob and wood-trimmed
assist grip.
Advanced Safety Technologies
Cutting-edge active and passive safety technologies combine in the LS 600h L
to create one integrated system. Active safety features include the Vehicle
Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) stability system, which assimilates and
manages the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, EPS, Vehicle Stability
Control (VSC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution
(EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle. Monitoring
a variety of sensors, the system anticipates the onset of a vehicle skid or
slide while cornering, and then helps correct the situation with a combination
of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent
to the driver. The VDIM system gathers data from more sources, processed earlier
and faster than in previous designs, which helps make the LS 600h L’s system
even more seamless and effective. VSC can also be turned off by the driver via
the Trac Off button. In addition to the active safety features, the LS 600h
L is standard-equipped with eight standard airbags, with a maximum of 11 airbags
available through option packages.
Lexus engineers have also developed an Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS).
It is the world’s first system designed to help detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s
path. APCS, with two small cameras mounted at the front of the car that work
in conjunction with millimeter-wave radar, is sensitive enough to detect certain
nonmetallic objects.
As part of APCS the LS also offers the world’s first Driver Monitor System.
A third camera, mounted on the steering column, monitors the orientation of
the driver’s face. If the camera detects that it appears the driver is not looking
directly ahead for a few seconds or more, and if an obstacle is detected ahead,
then it alerts the driver first with a warning chime and a flashing light. As
the car gets closer to the obstacle, APCS can begin to gently apply the brakes
on its own. To assist the driver in maneuvering around the obstacle, the system
reprograms the steering ratio, amplifying the intensity and quickness of the
steering response.
While all of this is happening, the system automatically retracts the front
seatbelts and prepares the brake system to respond with full force when activated
by the driver in anticipation of a possible impact.
Refined Comfort and Convenience
The LS600h L delivers nearly five inches more legroom than the LS 460. It also
provides the highest level of comfort and convenience features among all LS
models. Standard features include a hard disk drive (HDD) Lexus Navigation system
with a backup camera and Bluetooth® technology and voice activation, and
XM factory-installed satellite radio with real-time traffic displays and dynamic
route guidance. For genuine theater-level entertainment, the LS 600h L features
a standard 19-speaker 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio
system, raising the bar for automotive sound systems. A portion of the HDD is
dedicated to storing as many as 2,000 (128-bit) digital songs. An auxiliary
jack located in the front center console allows for iPod or MP3 capable digital
music players.
Additional standard features include an Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS),
climate-controlled front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel,
power rear sunshade, one-touch open/close power trunk, power door closers, headlamp
washers, SmartAccess with push-button start and card key, electronic parking
brake, Intuitive Park Assist, and laminated side glass.
A list of optional conveniences includes an Advanced Parking Guidance System
(APGS) to assist with parallel and back-in parking. Once the driver has correctly
positioned the car and identified the desired parking spot via the navigation
screen, APGS utilizes the rear back-up camera parking sonar sensors and electric
power steering system to guide the car into the spot, while the driver controls
speed via braking.
Special option packages offer unique features for the ultimate touch of luxury.
The Premium Package includes climate comfort rear seats with a heat/cool knob,
rear power seats with memory, rear power headrests, rear seat side airbags,
Lexus Link and APGS. The left-side rear power seat has a built-in 28-degree
angle and reclines up to 38 degrees and the rear seat moves front to back approximately
three inches.
The Premium Package II includes all features in the Premium Package and a heater
control panel, four-zone climate control, rear audio controls, additional wood
trim, rear air purifier, rear cool box, rear headliner and side air ducts, power
rear-door sunshades, and a rear seat entertainment system equipped with a power
ceiling-mounted nine-inch screen for DVD viewing.
The Executive Class Seating Package II includes all features in the Premium
Package II and features a power right rear seat that reclines up to 45 degrees
with an upper-back recliner featuring a 17-degree angle adjustment. A multi-function
massage feature includes an enhanced massage mode for the right-rear seat recliner
that can be used separately or in conjunction with the seat heater and cooler.
The package also includes a rear-seat wood-trimmed table and the rear-seat entertainment
system features wireless headphones.
The rear climate control is upgraded with three infrared sensors located in
the headliner that measure lap, upper body and seat on each side and then adjusts
airflow accordingly.
An Active Power Stabilizer is also available and features 19-inch summer tires,
high-friction brakes and an active-stabilizer system to help reduce body roll.
Each limited Launch Edition LS 600h L will come in a unique Truffle Mica exterior
color matched to an Alabaster and Black leather interior. Additional features
exclusive to the Launch Edition model will include a leather-trimmed upper and
lower black monotone instrument panel, 19-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels
with a shiny chrome finish, an etched chrome-finish "Launch Edition"
interior badge including the vehicle’s serial number, "Launch Edition"
logo floormats, and the Premium Package.
Superior Craftsmanship
Beyond the advanced technology and endless array of comfort and convenience
features, at the heart of the LS 600h L is the meticulous pursuit of perfection
for which Lexus has always stood. This is especially evident in the new LS build
process. Through the use of a revolutionary production process, Lexus has elevated
the bar on what has already been globally recognized as the best production
facility in the world. A build process was developed specifically for the LS
line at the award-winning assembly plant in Tahara, Japan. With remarkable levels
of fit, finish, accuracy and refinement achieved through the combined skill,
knowledge, and pride of Lexus master craftsmen and advanced technology, the
LS 600h L exemplifies "world’s best."
Premium Protection
All new Lexus vehicles come with a 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty
with roadside assistance for 48-months/unlimited miles. Powertrain and restraint
system coverage is provided for 72 months/70,000 miles. Corrosion perforation
protection is covered for 72 months, regardless of mileage. The hybrid-related
components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control
module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.
Credit: Lexus USA
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