Toyota Launches Lexus with Hybrid Engine

Posted on 03/18/2006 under: Sedans/Saloons, Hybrids, Lexus

The Lexus GS 450h, the world's first luxury performance hybrid sedan, goes on sale in early May

Lexus today announced the certified EPA-estimated mileage figures for the GS 450h, the world's first luxury performance hybrid sedan. The GS 450h has an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of 26 miles-per-gallon (mpg), with EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg city/28 mpg highway.

With 80 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car, the GS 450h delivers an estimated 28 percent better fuel efficiency than its V8 competitors. A Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV)/Tier 2-BIN 3 emissions rating is expected.

A completely new Lexus hybrid powertrain propels the new GS 450h. The system combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a new compact, high-output, permanent magnet electric motor that drives the rear wheels. The transmission utilizes an advanced two-stage motor torque multiplication device for the Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) motor, delivering responsive and seamless acceleration with no power loss.

With a combined system output of 339 horsepower, the new 3.5-liter V6 hybrid delivers the dynamic performance of a modern 4.5-liter V8 engine and is nearly as quick or quicker than every V8-powered competitor in its class. The GS 450h accelerates from zero-to-60 miles per hour in approximately 5.2 seconds.

Since the GS 450h is driven by its electric motors when starting, traveling slowly and during low-load driving, the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) level is about half that of a conventional gasoline-powered engine, providing an extremely quiet ride.

The GS 450h goes on sale in early May with a base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $54,900.

Source: Automotoportal.com