2009 Lexus LS 600h L

Hybrid technology gives flagship sedan a performance edge

By Nina Russin

2009 Lexus LS 600h L Sedan

Two years ago, Lexus introduced the LS 600h: a hybrid version of its flagship LS sedan. The technology is similar to the hybrid synergy drive in the Toyota Prius. But whereas Prius engineers focused exclusively on fuel economy, the Lexus team was more concerned with boosting power.

The hybrid powertrain in the Lexus 600h combines a 5-liter V-8 gasoline engine with two motor generators, yielding 438 system horsepower. The Lexus 600h accelerates from zero-to-sixty miles-per-hour in 5.5 seconds. A nickel-metal hydride battery pack recharges the electric motors.

Standard all-wheel drive automatically transfers engine power to the wheels with the best traction, enhancing the sedan’s four-season performance. The sedan has a 40/60 front-to-rear power split under normal conditions, mimicking rear-wheel drive. When the driver pushes the car, a limited slip differential can transfer up to seventy percent of engine power to the rear axle.

Three driving modes fine-tune the car’s performance for the driver’s needs. The hybrid mode maximizes fuel economy, while a power mode enhances acceleration. A snow mode minimizes wheel slippage on wet roads. Read the rest of this entry »