Since starting this website, I’ve been asked numerous times about the overall benefits of Lexus hybrid technology, so I thought it would be a good idea to put together a basic primer.

First off, here’s a direct-from-Lexus video explanation on how a hybrid engine works:

Now, everyone knows the primary advantage that (most) hybrids have over conventional gas engines is better miles-per-gallon performance, but that’s just one of the benefits to this progressive technology:

• Environmental - All Lexus hybrids carry the Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) certification, meaning they release approximately 76 percent fewer emissions compared to their gasoline counterparts.
• Ride Quality - The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that Lexus employs creates exceptionally smooth shifts between electric and gasoline power, most occupants are usually unaware the change has occurred.
• Noise Reduction - Hybrids are quieter than their gasoline burning counterparts, and Lexus engineers took it even further by moving the engine mounts upward in their hybrids and completely re-conceptualized the air intake system. Those changes, in addition to all the sound-dampening insulation, make Lexus hybrids virtually silent.
• Long Battery Life - Improvements in battery technology are central to the continued evolution of hybrids. Lexus uses nickel-metal hydride batteries rated to last 100,000 miles. This choice, paired with regenerative braking, gives Lexus hybrids longer battery life on the road over the competition.
• Superior Horsepower - An early complaint about hybrids was the lack of the “get up and go” of conventional cars. Lexus solved this problem by synchronizing the operation of their electric and gasoline motors, which turns the weakness into a strength. The combined performance of the two engines gives a V6 the acceleration power of a V8 and a V8 the power of a V12.
• Manufacturing Waste Reduction - Lexus didn’t just focus on the engine when building their hybrids, these vehicles are lighter and more economical in terms of raw materials required. Sustainable natural materials, like kenaf, are employed, as are soy-oil-based polyurethane and water-based paints on the undercoatings to reduce Volatile Organic Compound emissions. Also, the use of left-over construction materials as sound insulation allows Lexus manufacturing sites to recycle 98 percent of their manufacturing waste.

There are even some unexpected benefits, such as insurance companies granting discounts to hybrid drivers, and a reduction in congestion tax charges. These fees can add up, which can help offset the additional cost of the purchase.

Most importantly, hybrid technology is improving, and it will only get better with every new implementation. In fact, it’s only a matter of time before every Lexus is powered by the dual-powerplant.

In a short interview with the Wall Street Journal, Lexus Group Vice President Mark Templin revealed that the company will be releasing four new models next year:

…he’s cutting back spending now so he can invest in the marketing campaigns of these four products one of which, the new RX, was revealed Wednesday. In six weeks at the Detroit auto show, Lexus plans to unveil its new dedicated hybrid, the HS250h. And it is also releasing a new IS convertible next year. Mr. Templin declined to provide details on the fourth product.

Speculation is running wild as to what this new model might be. There’s a few options, but the one I’m hearing most is a sport version of the LS, which I presume will be released as the LS-F. Like the IS-F, this sport package is said to include a new body kit, the Brembo brake package, and the IS-F/600h engine, among other various performance enhancements.

Also, speaking of the 2010 LS, I’ve been told numerous times that both the ES & LS will be receiving a refresh for 2010, and that part of the facelift will be incorporating the grille from the LF-Xh. Anyone want to give that a shot in Photoshop?

The Auto Channel has posted the full LA Auto Show 2010 RX introduction (listed at over eighteen minutes, but only plays for twelve):

First of all, the heads-up display was shown briefly, here’s a screen capture:

Hard to get an accurate idea of the new feature’s implementation, but new details are certain to emerge shortly.

All in all, the video is an interesting watch, certainly much meatier than the edited Lexus release from last week. One point in particular is that the new RX hybrid will deliver an 8% increase in fuel efficiency over the outgoing model, which works out to a 2MPG increase.

So not even twelve hours after seeing the Mag-X rendering of the upcoming Lexus HS 250h hybrid, TPP reader Dan posted a link to a series of photos by Mike Ingels, who very well may have captured the first spy shots of the new hybrid:

Considering these photos were taken near the Chrysler proving grounds in Chelsea, Michigan, so there’s every possibility this isn’t the HS, but I definitely see some Lexus touches in the design, including the hybrid lower door trim and the wheel design. Nevermind that in the photo of the four models sitting outside the store, the beige car looks like a GS.

What do you think? Yes or no?

[Source: The Erie Hiker (Thanks Dan!)]

Volkswagen website VWVortex isn’t the first place you’d expect to find information on the upcoming Lexus dedicated hybrid, but the Internet’s a strange place. Regardless, a member of their forum came across this page out of Japanese magazine Mag-X, featuring a rendition of the now-named Lexus HS 250h (click for a closeup):

Other information gleaned from the Japanese article is the HS 250h will be powered by the 2.4L hybrid engine from the Camry hybrid and will have the 2010 RX i-Drive competitor and the common LED lights found in all the new Lexus hybrids.

I have doubts that this is the actual exterior styling, which basically looks like a Prius/ES mashup. We do know that this new Lexus hybrid will be introduced at the Detroit auto show, plus there’s also an on/off rumor that another hybrid will also be announced. Luckily, it’s only a couple months away…

[Souce: VWVortex via Motor Authority]

At the request of TPP commenter WorldofLuxury, here is the full set of matte black Lexus LF-Xh photos from the Paris promotional kit suitable for use as background images.

Also for your viewing pleasure is this short commercial-like footage of the LF-Xh: