Lexus LS 500h

The Lexus LS 500h made its debut at Geneva. The hybrid version of the new LS, that was presented earlier this year at Detroit, is based on the Global Architecture Luxury platform of Lexus, that provides a low center of gravity and a better weight distribution.

It is equipped with a hybrid system, which combines a 3.5-liter petrol V6 engine and 2 electric motors, with the power passing on the street via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. The combined performance of the hybrid set is 354 hp and it enables the car to do the with 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.

Lexus promises that this system is efficient and that it provides good acceleration, with the car having an electric range of 140 km. The compact, lightweight nickel-hydride battery occupies 20% less space than that of the previous generation Lexus LS 600h, having a higher energy density.

The transmission has been recalibrated providing linear, direct and continuous acceleration, with Lexus to equip the LS 500h with the Driver’s Mind Index system, that adjusts the gearshifts to suit the style and behavior of the driver.

The car also features the Lexus Dynamic Handling package and the Lexus Safety System +, an intelligent pedestrian detection system and active steering, which can brake the car automatically, but also change its direction, in order to avoid collision with a pedestrian.