Toyota luxury brand Lexus is falling into line with the parent company’s focus on greener vehicles with the 2010 LS600h hybrid sedan. The LS600h was introduced by Lexus back in 2006 but did not reflect Toyota’s advances in hybrid technology at the time. The 2010 model keeps the past model’s body design but a closer peek at this luxury vehicle reveals a world of changes.
The 2010 Lexus LS600h features a 5.0-liter V8 engine along with a 165kW electric motor to facilitate hybrid driving. The V8 engine does not skimp on the type of power familiar to Lexus drivers with a maximum output of 439 horsepower. The 0-60 MPH time of 6.3 seconds touted by Lexus representatives show that the LS600h packs a punch. Lexus also highlighted the low carbon dioxide emissions produced by the LS600h, which appeals to European consumers hemmed in by Euro V emission standards. We should not place the LS600h on par with the fuel-efficient Toyota Prius based on its projected 25 miles per gallon fuel rating. The LS600h is packed with energy-savings features that could mean greater fuel savings in future models.
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system’s Eco Mode plays around with gear shifts, ventilation and other energy drains to reduce fuel consumption. Lexus split apart the 20 battery units into front and rear compartments to free up more space for cargo in the rear seats and trunk. The LS600h features an air recirculation mode with its ventilation system to rely on air flow and low-energy cooling at temperatures above 68 degrees. This system balances an air blower with a traditional AC unit to reduce energy consumption in warmer climates.
Lexus also tweaked the acceleration and braking on the LS600h to create the best ride possible for its customers. The engine computer in the LS600h moderates acceleration and gear shifts automatically to keep fuel mileage steady. The LS600h features Brembo front-disc brakes and pads to remove the squeaks and groans of braking from day-to-day driving. Lexus and its parent company have turned the LS600h from a stylish sedan to the next step in the brand’s green-vehicle development.
