INTRODUCTION
The Geneva Motor Show hosts the world debut of the new Lexus LS
500h, the full hybrid version of Lexus' new flagship sedan.
The model, revealed soon after the premiere appearance of the
twin-turbo petrol V6-powered LS 500 at the 2017 North American
International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, is a further
manifestation of how Lexus has reimagined the luxury sedan,
presenting brave design, exhilarating performance and a
sophisticated appeal to capture the imagination of
forward-thinking, younger customers.
The car's design successfully brings together the virtues of a
long-wheelbase four-door sedan with a low, coupe-like profile,
positioning the LS perfectly across the two growing sedan and coupe
segments.
The cabin has benefited from an equally new approach, focusing on
"progressive comfort," interpreting Japanese aesthetics and
craftsmanship traditions in the context of an advanced, luxurious
and innovative vehicle interior such as the original door trim
ornamentation. Notably the LS 500 was honoured at NAIAS with the
EyesOn Design Award for excellence in interior design.
Conceived as the new global pinnacle of the Lexus brand, the LS
goes beyond what the world expects from a luxury car. Chief
Engineer Toshio Asahi explained: "Developing such a flagship model
required a massive paradigm shift. Rather than being bound by the
conventions that had defined luxury cars in the past, we aimed to
create a car with innovative, emotional and sensual appeal that
would draw customers' eyes away from other luxury cars and provide
entirely new values."
The LS 500h is equipped with the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid
System, a technology that transforms the performance and driver
appeal of hybrid, providing improved responsiveness and more
rewarding, linear acceleration, particularly when moving off from
stationary. At the same time, the inherent fuel and emissions
efficiency of Lexus Hybrid Drive has been further improved.
The powertrain features a 3.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i V6 petrol engine
and two electric motors, together delivering maximum system power
of 354 hp/264 kW.
The LS 500h is built on the new Lexus Global Architecture-Luxury
(GA-L) platform, which ensures a low centre of gravity and optimum
weight distribution, contributing to the car's essential stability
and handling agility, which in turn deliver increased driver
rewards. The fundamental high rigidity of the chassis allows the
new multilink suspension to be tuned to achieve a great handling
performance and the supreme comfort for which the LS is
renowned.
The car's dynamic performance benefits also from the co-ordination
of braking, steering and stability systems through Lexus Dynamic
Handling.
Advanced technologies are further used to deliver impressive safety
performance. The LS 500h's Lexus Safety System+ package
additionally includes a new advanced safety system, which features
the world's first intuitive pedestrian detection function with
active steering among other innovative technologies.
Omotenashi, expressing the unique sense of Japanese hospitality,
defines the LS 500h's whisper-quiet and luxurious interior. Supreme
comfort is provided by front and rear seats with multiple power
adjustment, heating, cooling and massage functions. There is also
an optional rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg
ottoman and the most generous leg room of any LS generation.
Notably the new LS 500h is longer even than the current long
wheelbase LS. The wheelbase increased from 3,090 mm to 3,125
mm.
Lexus Takumi craftsmanship also contributes to the special quality
of the LS 500h's cabin, in luxurious new trims, materials and
detailing, including a new pleating treatment and Kiriko glasswork
on the inner door panels.
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaLS500h.jpg
Lexus LS 500h
IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY
- Full hybrid powertrain with a 3.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i petrol
engine and Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System
- LS 500 with new twin-turbo V6 engine and 10-speed automatic
transmission
- Lexus Safety System+ with new advanced features
Full hybrid powertrain with 3.5-litre V6 Dual VVT-i petrol
engine
The LS 500h's Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a 3.5-litre
V6 Dual VVT-i petrol engine with two electric motors, together
delivering a total output of 354 hp/264 kW.
The engine makes optimal use of Dual VVT-i (intelligent variable
valve-timing), with timing precisely gauged in line with driving
conditions, helping secure high torque at all engine speeds.
Measures to reduce friction losses and thus improve engine
efficiency include the adoption of narrow, lightweight roller
rocker arms and low-friction timing chains, while D-4S direct fuel
injection helps create optimum combustion conditions, contributing
to good fuel economy.
Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System
The new LS 500h is equipped with Lexus' Multi Stage Hybrid System,
a breakthrough technology that transforms hybrid powertrain
performance.
The system adds a four-stage shifting device to the Lexus Hybrid
Drive combination of a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and two electric
motors. The result is more direct response to driver inputs and an
elevation of dynamic performance driving pleasure, while
maintaining the characteristic smoothness and efficiency for which
Lexus hybrids are renowned.
In a conventional full hybrid vehicle, engine output is boosted by
the electric motor via a reduction gear, but with the new Multi
Stage Hybrid System the power from the V6 engine and the hybrid
battery can be amplified by the four-stage shifting device,
allowing much greater drive power to be generated when accelerating
from stationary and achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.4
seconds. High-speed cruising can be enjoyed at lower engine rpm and
the LS 500h is able to run at higher speeds-up to 140 km/h-with the
petrol engine shut off.
The design of the system places the multi-stage shift unit
immediately behind the power split device, on an axis aligned with
the engine crankshaft. Although the unit has four speeds, the D
range has a simulated shift control pattern that delivers the feel
of driving with a 10-speed gearbox. As vehicle speed rises, engine
speed increases with a linear, direct and continuous acceleration
feel, free from the "rubber band" effect witnessed in some
continuously variable transmissions. In the 10th gear range, the
CVT control allows for high-speed cruising at lower engine revs for
quiet, smooth and fuel-efficient performance.
The transmission further benefits from an improved version of the
AI shift control found in conventional automatics. This enables
intelligent, optimum gear selection to be made in line with driving
conditions and driver inputs, for example when going up or
downhill. The system also includes DMI (Driver's Mind Index). This
means it can adjust gear shifts to suit the driver's style and
behaviour, without the driver having to select a different drive
mode to get the kind of performance they want from the
transmission.
Thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System's design, the driver is
able to take advantage of an M mode to select and hold gears
manually, using paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel-a
function not previously available on a Lexus hybrid. Thanks to the
co-ordinated control of the Power Split Device and the gear
shifting mechanism, the gear shift will start instantaneously with
the computer receiving the signal from the paddle shift, giving an
exceptionally quick response.
Lithium-ion hybrid battery
The LS 500h is fitted with a compact, lightweight, lithium-ion
hybrid battery. It is 20 per cent smaller than the nickel-metal
hydride unit featured in the current Lexus LS 600h, yet has a
higher power density. It increases the luggage capacity by 25 l
(versus LS 600h).
Using lithium-ion technology has also reduced the component's
weight, helping reduce the car's overall mass, thus supporting
overall fuel economy, emissions performance and handling
balance.
It is the first Lexus hybrid battery to feature a satellite
construction design, in which the cell voltage monitoring function
has been made separate from the battery ECU. This allows for
efficient use of what would otherwise be empty space inside the
battery pack to house the wiring harness and battery cooling
blower, thus reducing the unit's overall dimensions. The cooling
blower itself has been made more powerful and thinner in size.
LS 500 with twin-turbo V6 engine
The LS 500 is powered by a new twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 petrol
engine, matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission-a first for a
luxury sedan. Highly efficient turbocharger and fast combustion
technology combined produce high power to rival a V8 engine-415
hp/310 kW and a maximum 600 Nm of torque-together with notable fuel
efficiency.
The LS 500's 10-speed automatic transmission, first seen in the
Lexus LC 500 luxury coupe, is a torque converter automatic, yet
with shift times that rival those of dual-clutch transmissions. The
wide bandwidth afforded by its closely spaced ratios is ideal for
all forms of driving, helping provide an optimal gear for all
conditions.
The driver can execute shifts using paddle controls, but many will
prefer to use the advanced electronic control system, which
anticipates the driver's input and chooses the ideal ratio by
monitoring acceleration, braking and lateral G-forces.
When accelerating from standstill, the close ratios of the low
gears and the shortened shift time generate a rhythmical and
exhilarating feel as the car gains speed. The twin-turbo engine's
high torque matches ideally with the higher gear ratios for
effortless, relaxed motorway cruising, while very quick downshifts
provide direct acceleration with no lag in G response.
Lexus Safety System+ with new advanced safety system
The LS is equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, additionally
featuring a new advanced safety system. It extends the range of
active systems available to the driver to help prevent accidents
happening, covering the risks presented by four of the most common
types of accident: rear-end collisions, collisions with
pedestrians; accidents caused by lane departure and accidents at
intersections. It operates by combining information from
omnidirectional sensors around the vehicle, including stereo
cameras, monitoring all operating situations from parking
manoeuvres to collision avoidance.
It includes the world's first intuitive pedestrian detection
function with active steering. If a pedestrian is detected on the
road ahead and a collision is imminent, this system will
automatically apply the car's brakes and steer around the person,
while keeping to its traffic lane. The driver will be alerted to
the system's operation by a warning on the colour head-up
display.
In terms of passive safety, the LS' robust structure provides a
high degree of passive safety to protect occupants in a collision,
and the car is equipped with up to 14 airbags.
Lexus CoDrive, a high-level driving support system, is also being
introduced in the new LS. This provides steering control in
accordance with the driver's intention and continuous driving
support on motorways.
EXHILARATING PERFORMANCE
- New Lexus Global Architecture-Luxury platform supports excellent
ride, and handling, comfort and cabin quietness
- Greater vehicle agility and stability from a lower centre of
gravity
- Strategic use of strong, lightweight materials
- Multi-link front and rear suspension tuned for handling stability
and ride comfort
- Adaptive Variable Suspension, air suspension and Lexus Dynamic
Handling all help secure better ride comfort, rear stability and
handling
Lexus Global Architecture-Luxury platform
More than ever before, luxury sedan drivers demand greater handling
agility and performance feel, without sacrificing comfort. It's one
of the hardest balances to achieve in a vehicle, yet Lexus's new
GA-L platform meets the challenge. The platform made its debut in
the LC coupe and now, with a longer wheelbase, underpins the new
LS.
The GA-L platform is the stiffest Lexus has yet created, providing
a perfect foundation for improving handling, ride smoothness and
cabin quietness. The design of the GA-L platform allows the car's
centre of gravity to be made lower, with most of the mass,
including the engine and passengers, moved to a more central and
lower position in the chassis. This has a direct, positive impact
on ride, handling stability and comfort and contributes to a more
rewarding and engaging experience at the wheel for the driver.
Collision safety was also the key for development of the GA-L
platform. Cabin deformation and the amount of impact energy
transferred to the occupants have been minimised. Body structure
was enhanced with the use of new bonding technology, lighter
materials such as high-tensile strength materials and aluminium
bumper reinforcement.
Multilink suspensions tuned for handling stability and ride
comfort
The LS has a history of outstanding suspension compliance, yet
Lexus saw opportunities for new gains to be made in this area as
well.
The front suspension system has double ball joints on the upper and
lower arms to permit control of the smallest movements from driver
inputs and road conditions. Beyond sharing the workload, this
arrangement helps optimise suspension geometry to increase wheel
control and gain more precise steering response with better initial
effort. At the rear these ball joints are replaced by bushes to
ensure superior ride comfort.
To reduce unspring weight, and thereby promote agility and comfort,
aluminium is used extensively in the suspension's construction.
BRAVE DESIGN
- Luxury sedan with a distinctive coupe silhouette, emphasising the
model's stronger dynamic performance and increasing its appeal to
younger customers
- Low coupe profile achieved without sacrificing headroom and
comfort for rear seat occupants
- New LS longer and lower than its predecessor-available
exclusively in long-wheelbase form
- New interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille design
Following the "Yet" philosophy, that has guided the design thinking
for successive generations of the LS, Lexus has created a design
that offers the room and comfort of a prestige three-box sedan, yet
with the stylish silhouette of a four-door coupe-a look that holds
a stronger appeal for younger luxury customers.
Lexus designers took full advantage of the opportunity provided by
the low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution from the
LS's new GA-L platform to produce a lower profile and a long
wheelbase, giving the car a stretched, ground-hugging appearance.
Compared to the current LS, the new model sits about 15 mm lower,
while the hood and boot are 30 and 40 mm lower respectively. The
new LS is only offered in long wheelbase form: at 3,125 mm, the
wheelbase is in fact 35 mm longer than on the current long
wheelbase LS 600h L.
The LS is the first Lexus sedan to feature a six-side window
design, marking a break with tradition. This approach has helped
achieve a sleek silhouette and a low-lying fluidity in the design.
The LS is also the first Lexus to be fitted with flush-surface
windows that integrate smoothly with the side pillars.
The LS displays a unique rendition of Lexus's signature spindle
grille, designed to convey an aura of dignity that befits the
model's position at the pinnacle of the Lexus brand. The grille has
a mesh texture that appears to change in different light, created
through months of intense CAD development and the hand-adjustment
of thousands of individual surfaces to gain the optimum effect.
LUXURY INTERIOR INSPIRED BY OMOTENASHI
- Welcoming, spacious cabin design, inspired by Omotenashi, the
unique sense of Japanese hospitality
- Special focus on rear seat comfort and ease of access
- Extensive measures to achieve exceptional interior quietness
- Mark Levinson 3D Surround Audio
Welcoming and luxurious interior
Omotenashi, the Japanese concept of hospitality, is a common thread
that has run through all LS models. In the context of a luxury
automobile, it means taking care of the driver and passengers,
anticipating their needs, attending to their comfort and protecting
them from hazards.
For the new LS, creating a new standard of flagship luxury was not
simply a matter of adding more features. Inspired by Omotenashi,
Lexus sought to deliver a cabin that welcomes and envelops the
occupants and treats the driver like a partner. The watchwords for
the design team were "progressive comfort".
New seat designs, including 28-way power front seats with heating,
cooling and massage functions, exemplify this approach.
The organically shaped dashboard design clusters information
displays at a uniform height to support the "seat-in-control"
layout-the driver can operate all systems without having to change
their posture. In addition to a 12.3-inch navigation display, the
LS can be fitted with an optional 24-inch colour head-up
display-the largest in the world - that projects a variety of key
vehicle information and performance data into the driver's forward
line of vision.
The infotainment system has a more inviting graphic user interface
and is controlled using the next generation of Lexus' Remote Touch
control system. The intuitive operation is designed to mirror the
way a smartphone is used; it can also recognise "handwritten"
commands-outline letters traced using a finger on the touchpad.
Because the new LS is lower than previous models, Lexus has
equipped the optional air suspension with an access function.
Activated when unlocking the car with the smart key, access mode
automatically raises the vehicle and opens the seat bolsters to
welcome the driver behind the wheel.
To preserve headroom within the car's lower roofline, the LS is
fitted with is an outer, slide-type sunroof.
Focus on rear seat comfort
Lexus also lavished attention on the rear seats, producing a design
that provides seamless continuity between the trim and seatbacks.
There are heating, cooling and massage options for rear seat
occupants, while power-controlled rear seats are available with a
Shiatsu massage function and a raised ottoman leg rest. These form
part of an extensive rear seat luxury package that offers more
legroom than in any previous LS. With this optional package, the
seat behind the front passenger can be reclined up to 48 degrees,
and raised up to 24 degrees to make it easier to exit the
vehicle.
Lexus has designed the LS cabin for utterly quiet cruising, with
new sound suppression methods used to further hush the environment
compared to previous LS models. Active Noise Control quiets the
cabin by detecting the sound of the engine coming into the vehicle
and cancelling certain frequencies, using antiphase sound from the
audio speakers.
Exclusive audio systems
The serenity of the cabin provides an ideal stage for the Pioneer
premium audio system. Featuring a sophisticated 'Quantum Logic
Immersion' sound tuning technology and ceiling array, the Mark
Levinson system creates a 3D surround audio for a concert-like
experience.
TAKUMI CRAFTSMANSHIP
- Highest levels of interior quality and finish
- New trims, patterns and materials
- Hand pleated door trims inspired by Origami
- Glass ornamentation using Japanese Kiriko techniques
The quality, precision and pride in perfection that define Lexus'
Takumi craftsmanship are richly evident in the luxury detailing in
the new LS, as befits a flagship sedan.
Lexus has produced a unique aesthetic for the new LS which can be
witnessed in elements such as the interior lighting and an
exceptional attention to detail in the finish and appearance of
everything you see and feel.
Inspired by Japanese culture and traditions
Japanese culture provided the inspiration for a new approach to
creating trim elements, combining traditional influences with
advanced manufacturing techniques. This can be seen in signature
touches, such as ambient lighting inspired by Japanese lanterns and
armrests that appear to float next to the door panels.
Natural woodwork and the application of sophisticated sliced wood
and laser cutting technologies have been used to produce new
interior finish options, including Art Wood/Organic, Art
Wood/Herringbone and Laser Cut Special. The grain pattern of Art
Wood is achieved by combining different colour woods and is an
original Lexus design, created using Takumi craftsmanship skills.
The LS' new cross grain finish is larger with sharper contrasts
between light and dark, creating a more vibrant effect. The new
Laser Cut Special emphasises the contrast between precise metal
lines and natural wood.
The hand-pleated door trims were inspired by Origami, the Japanese
art of creating three-dimensional forms from a single piece of
paper. The door panels were originally rendered in paper by a
skilled fabric artisan. The finished three-dimensional pattern
captures the Lexus "L" motif in its intricate and precise folds,
conveying a different effect when seen in daylight or the cabin's
night-time illumination.
For the ornamentation panel, the aim was to express Lexus' Time in
Design philosophy. To achieve this, the team called on the skills
of Kiriko artisan glassworkers who produced hand-carved designs
that capture the contrast created by light and shadow. Through
painstaking trial and error, a design was chosen that looks
beautiful and sensual from any angle. Although fragile in
appearance, the glass has been treated using reinforcement
technology to ensure it is robust for use in a vehicle interior.
The hand-carved design was reproduced using advanced glass
production technology, which precisely scans and digitises tens of
thousands of facets. In the next step the glass ornamentation
undergoes a series of treatments such as polishing and
strengthening conducted by specialised Japanese Takumi
craftsmen.
LEXUS IN MOTORSPORT-THE 2017 RC F GT3
- All-new 2017 RC F GT3 competing in racing championships in the
USA and Japan, as well as selected European events
- European Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show
Lexus is increasing its focus on motorsport in 2017 with the RC F
GT3, aiming to strengthen the performance image of its brand with a
growing audience of race enthusiasts worldwide.
The all-new car, now homologated by the sport's governing body, the
FIA, will participate in racing championships in USA and Japan, as
well as selected European races.
In the USA, Lexus has supplied two Lexus RC F GT3 to the 3GT Racing
team, to compete in the GTD class of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar
Championship Series.
In Japan, two cars are contesting the GT300 class of the Super GT
Series with the LM corsa team.
In Europe, Farnbacher Racing and Emil Frey Racing, the two teams
which competed in VLN Endurance series with RC F GT3 prototype
vehicles last year, will continue their development work this
season, aiming to compete at higher levels in GT3 racing in Europe
in the future. On this basis, they will compete in European races
in 2017, including selected events in the International GT Open
series.
Last year, Lexus became the first Asian carmaker to win a VLN
Endurance Championship race at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, with a
RC F GT3 prototype claiming overall victory at the VLN9 race on
October 8.
Lexus also achieved outstanding results last year with the RC F
GT500, another racing car derived from the RC F. The 2016 RC F
GT500 dominated the Super GT series in Japan last year, with Team
SARD and drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Kohei Hirate respectively
claiming the team and drivers' championship titles in the GT500
category.
Technical Specifications
Engine: 5.4-litre V8
Power: 373+ kW (500+ DIN hp)
Torque: N/A
Transmission: 6-speed sequential racing gearbox
Wheels: 13 x 18 ft, 13 x 18 rr-centre-lock 13 x 8 in front and rear with
centre lock
Brakes: iron rotors
Overall Length: 4,845 mm
Overall Width: 2,030 mm
Overall Height: 1,270 mm
Wheelbase: 2,730 mm
Kerb Weight: 1,300 kg
LEXUS LC 500 AND LC 500h
- LC to reach showrooms in Europe from August 2017
- Full hybrid LC 500h to achieve benchmark fuel economy of 6.4
l/100 km and 145 g/km CO2 emissions
- LC Launch Edition displayed at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, a
limited-run model with special features including F-White exterior,
Breezy Blue interior and 21-inch wheels
Deliveries of the new LC to European customers will start from
August this year.
Throughout the car's development, Lexus made it a top priority to
preserve the essence of the original LF-LC concept's styling,
delivering a flagship coupe that displays radical, brand-defining
Lexus design.
What is under the skin is equally significant, the new LC being the
first model to be built on the Lexus Global Architecture-Luxury
platform, which endows the car with a low centre of gravity and
optimum weight distribution. This contributes to superior handling
agility and stability and the kind of rewarding drive customers
expect from a prestige coupe.
Lexus' advanced powertrain technologies ensure efficient
performance from both the full hybrid and V8-powered versions of
the LC. The LC 500h is set to deliver fuel economy 6.4 l/100 km and
145 g/km CO2 emissions, while for the LC 500, powered by a 477 DIN
hp/351 kW 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine, the respective figures are
11.5 l/100 km and 263 g/km.
Lexus' Geneva Motor Show presentation will include a Launch Edition
version of the new LC, a limited-run model that will be produced to
celebrate the introduction of the luxury coupe in Europe.
The Launch Edition versions of the full hybrid LC 500h and the
V8-powered LC 500 are distinguished by a F-White exterior paint
finish with contrasting Breezy Blue interior. They are also fitted
with 21-inch alloy wheels that otherwise will be exclusive to Sport
and Sport+ grade LC models.
About Toyota
Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation
(TSE:7203; NYSE:TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937
to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of
December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52
overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions.
Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions.
For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.
Source: Toyota
Contact:
Public Affairs Division
Global Communications Department
Toyota Motor Corporation
Tel: +81-3-3817-9926
Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
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