The LS600hL is the world's first vehicle of any type to be powered by a full hybrid V8 powertrain. The innovative Lexus Hybrid Drive system on the LS600hL combines an all-new five-liter direct injection V8 gasoline engine with large, high-output electric motors and a newly designed, large-capacity battery pack to develop peak combined output of 327 kilowatts.

To distribute this immense power, the LS600hL employs a new full-time all-wheel-drive system The combination delivers impressive traction control, seamless acceleration, suspension handling and foremost stable feeling. Further more, it will deliver power and performance of that of normally aspirated 6.0 liter engines, while still delivering 3.0 liter class fuel efficiency.

When the LS600hL hybrid luxury sedan launches in summer 2007, 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 LS600hL will stand as the pinnacle flagship for the Lexus brand by providing the highest level of technical advancements, driving performance, safety and luxury of any vehicle in our lineup', said Godfrey Tsang, Vice President of Toyota Motor (China) Investment Co., Ltd. 'Its development process mixed the traditional and the new. The traditional, 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 LS600hL raises our own quality expectations and may rank among the most technologically advanced automobiles in the industry.'

Lexus Hybrid Drive
The all-new LS600hL will be powered by the ultra-quiet Lexus Hybrid Drive system; the automotive industry's most advanced gas-electric hybrid system developed to date and features the world's first full V8 hybrid drive train, and all-wheel-drive (AWD). The system combines a new 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engine with two powerful electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack. Together, this advanced combination provides the LS600hL with an unmatched balance of environmental efficiency and performance.

Generally, when accelerating from zero, the engine will not start. Only the motor will be used, which realizes quietness with virtually no emissions. In normal driving conditions, LS600hL uses both engine and motor intelligently, switching from one to another. This realizes the quietness, superior fuel efficiency, and low emission by keeping engine revolutions low. At full acceleration, LS600hL uses V8 engine & motor at the same time, which can realize responsive and seamless acceleration.

The LS600hL's Lexus Hybrid Drive system provides power and performance on par with competitors' normally aspirated 6.0 liter power plants. The hybrid power train generates a peak combined output rating of 327 kw and can effortlessly accelerate the LS600hL from 0-to-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. Even more impressive is the responsive and seamless mid-range acceleration. 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 LS600hL accelerates from 80 - 120 km/h in a rapid 4.3 seconds.

The LS600hL's high-output performance is matched with combined fuel economy rating of 9.3* liter / 100km (*EC mode, manufacturer's test figure), which is equal to, or better than the combined fuel-economy ratings of 3.0 liter, 6 cylinder, mid-sized luxury sedans.

The LS600hL meets stringent emission rating around the world; SULEV (United States), Euro IV (Europe), and J-SULEV (Japan), which means much lower in emissions than vehicles with conventional internal combustion engine.

An added benefit to Lexus Hybrid Drive is the significant reduction in noise and vibration (NV). The new V8 is tuned to reduce vibration and sound by adding increased sound insulating materials around the cylinder head covers. NV reduction is also achieved by reducing damper pulley tensions and perfecting engine mount sizes and locations through repeated testing by Lexus engineers. The NV levels in the LS600hL are much better than those found in other luxury cars, making it one of the quietest automobiles ever built.

V8 5.0L Engine
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 electrically controlled intake and a hydraulically controlled two-way exhaust system achieves superior engine-startup operation and high-output performance.

Hybrid System Components
The LS600hL is defined as a 'full hybrid,' capable of operating in electric-only mode or with a combination of the gas engine and electric motor. 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 LS600hL 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 power control unit consists of a voltage boost converter and inverter and it is controlled by a motor generator ECU. (Added)

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 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 LS600hL's power train uses two motor generators, MG1 and MG2. Each performs specific functions and can operate as both a motor and 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.

Hybrid Transmission
The LS600hL features an 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 electronically controlled continuously variable transmission is mated with an eight-speed sequential shift. The sequential shift mode is activated when the shift lever is in the 'S' mode, allowing eight different stages of acceleration response and engine breaking force. 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.

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.

Full-Time All-Wheel Drive
The vast power of the LS600hL 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 any road surface to 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 newly developed transfer 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 systems performance, the LSD features a rear biased torque distribution of 40 to 60 under normal straight-line driving, but it instantaneously optimizes the driving force in a range from 50:50 to 30:70 in response to the driving conditions. The LSD automatically and continually adjusts power distribution between the front and rear wheels according to changing speed and road conditions.

This system automatically and instantaneously detects slipping in the front and rear wheels, and limits slip by distributing more torque to the wheels with traction. As a result, power is efficiently transmitted to the road surface, even in slippery conditions such as during rain or snow.

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.

EV Drive Mode
For the ultimate in quiet driving and low emissions the LS600hL features an EV drive mode. By pushing an EV switch, power reverts to full electric mode for short-distance during slow driving situations such as residential areas or parking garages.

Optimum Fuel Saving Technology
The LS600hL is equipped with an electric power-steering and air-conditioning compressor that are electrically powered to reduce parasitic losses to the engine and thereby helping to 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 system 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 LS600hL is matched by responsive handling that includes a turning radius while maintaining the ultra-comfortable ride. Lexus engineers developed new multi-link front and rear suspension exclusive to the LS600hL to achieve outstanding adaptability to unevenness in road surfaces.

This new suspension helps overcome under-steering and drifting situations common when driving an AWD vehicle at cornering. A standard air suspension control system maintains superb vehicle posture and stable driving performance with minimal pitching and rolling.

The LS600hL is equipped with large front and rear ventilated disc brakes and ride on standard 19-inch, seven-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. These special wheels receive extensive buffing and their shape was meticulously analyzed to create a form with shade depths that shift when the vehicle is in motion.

The LS600hL employs Electric Power Steering (EPS), which delivers a smooth steering feeling with 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, which helps to enhance responsiveness and driver control. VGRS also partners with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, making minor adjustments to the front-wheel angle for improved stability in challenging road conditions.

Elegant Styling and Appointments
Over the last three years, Lexus has developed its styling philosophy, L-finesse. 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 LS460L and the GS, IS and ES, the all-new LS600hL flagship adopts this philosophy, revealing a family resemblance in the new Lexus sedan – one that conveys elegance, refinement and a strong emotional appeal.

With the new LS600hL 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 LS600hL 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 LS600hL adopts the forceful profile of a vehicle that portrays 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.

Passenger space and luxury comfort were the primary focus of the interior cabin design. 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 LS600hL includes a wood-trimmed and chrome-plated shift knob and wood-trimmed assist grip.

Leather Instrumental Panel
Genuine leather is featured throughout the cabin, its rich appearance softened and structured with additional stitching to create a relaxed atmosphere. The leather extends beyond the seats and onto the instrument panel, upper front doors and door armrests.

To design an instrumental panel with the unique premium feel of genuine leather, Lexus drew on expertise to combine production technology with master craftsmen's skills. The genuine is carefully selected to accommodate temperature and humidity conditions with minimal warping or deformation. In the cutting process, Lexus adopted the three-dimensional cutting to achieve perfect curved surface. Then, master craftsmen ensure the appearance of a uniform seam with their double stitches technique. Also, state-of-the-art equipment is used in the leather bonding process to apply the genuine leather to the instrumental panel precisely.

Advanced Safety Technologies
Cutting-edge active and passive safety technologies combine in the LS600hL to create one integrated system. Active safety features include the VDIM, which integrates 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 'Traction Off' button. In addition to the active safety features, the LS600hL is equipped with 11 airbags.

Refined Comfort and Convenience
The LS600hL features Lexus DVD Navigation system with voice-activated function, back-up camera with guide, and the Bluetooth® mobile phone connection, multi-information TFT color display. For genuine theater-level entertainment the LS600hL features a standard 19-speakers 450-watt Mark Levinson® Reference Surround sound system, raising the bar for automotive sound systems. Additional standard features include an Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), climate-controlled front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, power rear sunshade, one-touch open/close power trunk, power door closers, headlamp washers, Smart Access with card key, electronic parking brake, and acoustic laminated side glass with UV (Ultraviolet rays) and IR (Infrared rays) cut function.

The LS600hL measures 5150mm in length, and 3090mm as the wheelbase, which is entirely dedicated to increased rear passenger legroom and comfort.

Offering unparalleled 1st class travelling luxury in the premium automotive segment, the rear of the hybrid flagship cabin is equipped with a reclining, air-conditioned Ottoman Seat (rear right seat) featuring a unique massage facility, human body temperature sensing air-conditioning system, and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a separate DVD player and retractable, ceiling mounted, 9' full-color VGA screen. Added to these features is the 7.1 home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System, which has 19 speakers in total.

The new LS600hL is equipped with two, individual, full leather rear seats, divided by a fixed center console which is finished in a range of real wood and genuine leather trims perfectly matched to the interior color scheme. The rear right seat can be reclined to a maximum of 45 degrees and further features a fully retractable 'Ottoman' thigh and leg rest for the ultimate in limousine seating comfort. One touch of a rear centre console button automatically reclines the Ottoman seat and extends the leg rest, whilst simultaneously folding down the front seatback and headrest, and moving the entire seat forward to its maximum point of travel. Opening the front passenger door automatically returns the front seat to its foremost standard position and raises the headrest.

The Ottoman seat is equipped with a new, air-assisted massage system. The system is based on the technology and operational qualities of the best massage chairs on the market today. It features a total of eight air pockets covering the area of the occupant's shoulders and back, and reproduces professional massage techniques, including Shiatsu, shoulder and lower back acupressure.

Four-zone Automatic Climate Control is the world's most advanced climate control system, and incorporates the first human body temperature sensing control ever employed within a climate control system. Measuring the body temperature of rear row occupant enables the Four-zone Automatic Climate Control system to assess their specific thermal comfort and then instigate bespoke adjustments to the air-conditioning system's four independent zones.

The Ottoman seat also incorporates a new seat cushion airbag. Combining with the use of the seatbelt, in an event of frontal impact, it will activate by inflating the front area of the seat base to help reduce the impact of the occupant.

In addition, the rear centre console houses a storage compartment for DVD discs and headphones, a 4 liter cool-box, cup holders, a retractable table, remote controls for both the massage programme and entertainment system, and a control panel for the operation of the air-conditioning, seats and rear door and rear window sunshades.

An AV input adapter is also incorporated within the rear centre console, facilitating the connection of various portable devices such as a games console or video camera. Furthermore, two sets of headphones may be connected to the system simultaneously, allowing rear seat passengers to enjoy the full breadth of rear seat entertainment available aboard the LS600hL without distraction to the driver or front seat passenger.

Superior Craftsmanship
Beyond the advanced technology and endless array of comfort and convenience features, at the heart of the LS600hL is the meticulous pursuit of perfection for which Lexus has always stood. This is especially evident in the build process of the new LS. 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 Tahara, Japan plant. 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 LS600hL exemplifies 'world's best.'