Lexus Hybrid Cars Debut

By: Bill Waters
07/20/2009 11:16 AM ET

Articles – Lexus HS 250h Hybrid Debuts Late Summer

Lexus Hybrid Cars will begin showing up at dealerships across the country as the new Lexus HS 250h is changing the way we view fuel-efficient vehicles. The automobile will be available later this summer and expects to deliver an exciting driving experience. It is also the first Lexus vehicle to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.

“There’s no other luxury car like the HS 250h hybrid, and we know that people who get behind the wheel will be amazed by its innovation, luxury and sustainability,” said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus’s vice president of marketing.

Hybrid Cars Study Suggests Consumers Prefer Luxury

The Lexus car will achieve an impressive 35 mpg combined EPA rating. The automobile will deliver 30-percent better mileage than other Lexus fuel-efficient models. A recent study suggests that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would consider a new luxury vehicle if it was available.

Latest Drive System

The 2010 Lexus is powered by a four-cylinder, 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle, gas engine that is part of the latest Hybrid Drive System by the automaker. It can generate up to 187 total horsepower. The engine has several technologies that include cooling piston oil jets, an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics, and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Lexus HS 250h Includes Exhaust Heat Recovery System

The HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency by introducing an exhaust heat recovery system. This system reduces engine warm-up time and for longer periods. The windshield features infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties that can keep the interior cooler while decreasing the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature.

Plant-based Ecological Plastics

The Lexus HS 250h is also equipped with power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions. The automobile includes proactive adoption of planet-based, carbon-neutral “Ecological Plastics” or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological Plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product’s life cycle than plastic made solely from petroleum.

Among the areas of utilization is an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, a door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with Ecological Plastic resulting in approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions.

Interior Innovation Features

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moon roof, premium audio system, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth technology, integrated satellite radio, voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen.

Hard Disk Drive Navigation System

Lexus debuts a new Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System positioned near the dashboard. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. The HS system features the all-new “Remote Touch” controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System.

The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback. The new line-up of Lexus Hybrid cars will definitely offer luxury combined with fuel economy.