Lexus Launches GS450h in Japan

Lexus 17 Mar 2006 16:21 GMT

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Lexus launched in Japan today the GS450h^*1 as the first hybrid sedan in the Lexus lineup. The GS450h, powered by the world's first^*2 hybrid system designed specifically for rear-wheel-drive passenger vehicles, is available through "Lexus" dealers nationwide.

The GS450h is emblematic of the GS series, aiming—in the GS fashion and in line with the Lexus concept of providing peace of mind even during high-speed driving—to offer, with its newly developed rear-wheel-drive hybrid system, advanced environment performance and a driving experience that stimulates people's sensitivities beyond mere numbers and performance.

Development of the GS450h's hybrid system was based on the concept of Hybrid Synergy Drive, which seeks to achieve outstanding driving performance, high fuel efficiency, low emissions and quiet operation. The combination of a high-output 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with a high-performance motor provides dynamic performance on par with a conventional 4.5-liter vehicle^*3, one of the world's highest fuel efficiency performances in its class^*4 (equivalent to that of a 2-liter engine) ^*5 and clean exhaust emissions as well as the extremely quiet operation that is characteristic of hybrid vehicles. In addition, the GS450h features advanced technologies that enhance both safety and driving performance.

Lexus has positioned hybrid systems as a key technology for helping to deliver to customers the Lexus value of enjoying superior excitement and comfort, and, in proposing a direction for luxury vehicles in a new era, it intends to introduce additional hybrid models.

^*1 With "h" standing for "hybrid", "450h" refers to a hybrid vehicle with performance equal to that of a 4.5-liter conventional vehicle
^*2 As of February 2006, according to a TMC survey
^*3 Comparison based on TMC measurements
^*4 Compared to vehicles of similar engine displacement
^*5 According to the measurements by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport

Note: Products described in this and in any attached materials are for the Japanese market only.

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