Lexus LS600h in Detail

Press Release

Page 1: Overview
Page 2: Powertrain
Page 3: Dynamics
Page 4: Safety
Page 5: Comfort

Overview

The purpose of developing the Ls 600h was to create a car that explores the outer reaches of performance, design, safety and efficiency. Whereas usually, focusing on one of these goals always compromises the other, i.e. more performance means less fuel efficiency, the Ls 600h is simply in a class by itself.

Building on the new Ls' values of the highest expression of L-finesse design, the world's most advanced safety technology and the highest possible standards in production, quality and comfort, the all-new Ls 600h adds to this Lexus' revolutionary hybrid drive technology to create a vehicle offering the ultimate sophisticated and elevated driving experience.

It is the world's first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain, combining a technologically peerless 5.0 litre petrol engine with powerful, high­output electric motors. a newly designed, large-capacity battery pack, a dual-stage, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and permanent all-wheel drive are also part of the package.

As with the Lexus rX and Gs hybrid models, the Ls 600h's '600' suffix refers not to the cubic capacity of the engine but, rather, a power output comparable to that of a 6.0 litre V2 normally-aspirated engine.

This state-of-the-art powertrain technology will equip the Ls 600h with an unequalled balance of performance and environmental efficiency. a peak combined output rating of over 330 kW offers the power and performance of a normally-aspirated V2 engine, whilst still beating any other petrol car in the segment in terms of fuel efficiency. in addition, CO2 emissions of under 220 g/km match the most frugal diesels in the segment.

Owing to the inherent Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) improvements offered by its hybrid powertrain, the Ls 600h is designed to set a new standard for silent running in the premium automotive segment.

To add to this ultimate driver and ownership experience, Lexus will introduce a long-wheel-base version of the Ls 600h. Extending the wheelbase by 20 mm, dedicated entirely to increased rear passenger legroom, the Ls 600h L can be equipped with comfort features unique to its class. reclining seats with leg and foot rest, a rear seat relaxation system and a second DVD changer for individualised rear seat entertainment. in addition, the Ls 600h L features some unique innovations, such as a rear seat cushion airbag and an infrared body heat sensing climate control system to offer rear seat passengers a genuine ^st class travelling luxury experience.

Underlining the Ls' team's pursuit of ultimate luxury, a leather-wrapped upper instrument panel is available, executed by highly-skilled craftsmen. adding to this is a wooden heated steering wheel providing the most comfortable grip on frosty mornings.

Finally, owing to Lexus' constant quest for technological innovation, the Ls 600h will feature the world's first application of low-beam LED headlight technology. LED headlight technology offers improved durability compared to more conventional lighting systems and ensures excellent illumination of the road ahead.

The look of the new Ls 600h expresses a dynamic design that proves that premium sedans can be understated, but inspiring. a result of the recent design direction Lexus deems L-finesse, the new Ls vehicles are the crowning touch to a fully restyled car lineup, which already includes the Gs and is sedans.

The L-finesse design philosophy has its roots in creating a balance of contrasting elements. The new Ls encompasses this direction with its bold look, style and personality�both vivid and forceful while at the same time warm, inviting and contemporary. With its long cabin, low-to-the- ground stance and elegantly sculpted and streamlined body contours, the Ls emphasises simplicity and style in a stunning, modern package.

Page 1: Overview
Page 2: Powertrain
Page 3: Dynamics
Page 4: Safety
Page 5: Comfort

Powertrain

Lexus Hybrid Drive employed in the high performance flagship of the Ls model range combines an all new, longitudinally-mounted 5.0 litre V8 petrol engine with a high-output electric motor and a newly designed, large-capacity battery pack. This state-of-the-art hybrid drive system will equip the Ls 600h with an unparalleled balance of performance and environmental efficiency, generating a peak combined power output of over 330 kW (449 hp), while delivering an unparalleled combined fuel consumption of below 9,5 l/00km and combined CO2 emissions below 220 g/km.

Hybrid Drive Components

Derived from the Ls 460’s 4.6 litre powerplant, the new 5.0 litre V8 engine is a showcase of precision engineering, the most technologically advanced internal combustion engine ever developed by Lexus engineers. The painstaking development of high rigidity components, optimum balance in all moving parts, the minimisation of friction and unprecedented precision of assembly award the new V8 benchmark performance in the fields of refinement and quietness.

To reduce the overall weight of the engine, the cylinder block is die-cast from a lightweight, high strength aluminium alloy. The block structure and rib reinforcement design have been finalised through the incorporation of cylinder combustion pressure data to minimise both vibration and noise. in addition the engine head cover is constructed in a lightweight magnesium alloy.

The new V8 features a D-4s (Direct injection 4-stroke superior version) stoichiometric direct injection system, the world’s only automotive injection system to adopt two injectors per cylinder. it combines the strengths of both direct and port injection, realising optimum engine efficiency throughout the power band and improving torque by 7.5% across the rev range, whilst minimising fuel consumption and emissions. D-4s also substantially reduces combustion fluctuations in comparison to any conventional, direct or port injection system.

The 5.0 litre powerplant is also equipped with Lexus’ Dual VVT-i. This optimised, low-pressure loss, variable intake and exhaust valve timing system incorporates VVT-iE, the world’s first electric motor driven intake camshaft, which operates across the full engine revolution and temperature spectrum. The new V8 further features a semi-dual exhaust manifold that reduces interference in the flow of exhaust gases, further improving output and combustion efficiency.

Lexus Hybrid Drive employs a three phase, permanent magnet aC synchronous type motor, operating on a 650-Volt current, delivering more than 60 kW (27 DiN hp). additionally, by changing the magnet distribution, an astonishing operating quietness has been achieved. Further to this, coiling the magnetic alternate, and hence holding the magnetic force, resulted in a smoother, more stable motor rotation.

In addition to both petrol engine and electric motor power sources, the Ls 600h’s Lexus Hybrid Drive further comprises a generator, a high­performance battery, a power split device, which combines and re­allocates power from the engine, electric motor and generator according to operational requirements, and a Power Control Unit (PCU) to govern the high speed interaction of the system components.

To optimise delivery of the Lexus Hybrid Drive’s immense power, a new, mechanical, all-wheel drive system offers superior traction and handling stability, whilst a newly developed, dual stage, electronically controlled continuously variable transmission offers smooth, linear power delivery.

As in the Gs 450h, the Lexus Hybrid Drive’s electric motor, generator, power split planetary gear mechanism and motor-speed reduction gearing are all housed in one lightweight, highly compact transmission casing. The combined installation of these components within a single compact casing is fundamental to the successful installation of Lexus’ sophisticated hybrid drive system in a longitudinal, front-engine sedan platform.

Equipped with E-CVT (Electric Continuously Variable Transmission), the Ls 600h provides a breath-taking, linear acceleration. as the Lexus Hybrid Drive ECU selectively controls the rpm of the engine and electric motor, the E-CVT simulates a continuous variation of the transmission’s current ratio. similar to that of the Gs 450h, the two-stage gearing generates maximum low-gear torque for significantly enhanced acceleration, as well as extended high-gear performance for quiet, high speed cruising with improved fuel efficiency.

Lexus Hybrid Drive in Operation

Over the course of any journey, Lexus Hybrid Drive operates in several different modes to maximise the Ls 600h’s overall efficiency. Under operating conditions of low engine efficiency such as start up and low to mid-range speeds, the vehicle runs on the electric motors alone, thus eradicating both engine noise and CO2 emissions.

Under normal driving conditions, the ultra-efficient V8 powerplant serves as the main power source. Engine output is divided by a power split device to both drive the wheels directly and power the generator, which, in turn, drives the electric motor and simultaneously charges the high-voltage battery. in these circumstances, power allocation is constantly monitored and adjusted between engine and electric motor to maximise efficiency. When sudden acceleration is required, engine and electric motor again operate in tandem, with extra power supplied from the battery to boost motor response, providing a superlative and linear power delivery.

During deceleration and under braking, the combustion engine switches off and the high-output electric motor acts as a generator to effect regenerative braking. such optimises energy management in the Lexus Hybrid Drive by recovering kinetic energy (normally wasted as heat under braking and deceleration) as electrical energy for storage in the high performance battery.

When the engine is cold and the ignition is switched on, the system will start the engine to warm the unit, running at an engine speed that provides the highest possible efficiency. Thereafter, at rest, the engine stops automatically to conserve fuel. However, if the vehicle is at idle for prolonged periods, the engine will automatically run whenever necessary to charge the high-voltage battery via the generator. Furthermore, under all driving conditions, battery power level is constantly managed via a dedicated ECU that prevents it from reaching extreme levels. The purpose is to maximise the life expectancy of the battery.

The Lexus hybrid powertrain delivers extremely smooth and linear acceleration, with none of the expected ‘jumps’ between gears of a conventional drivetrain. Under every driving condition, at whatever speed, Lexus Hybrid Drive offers a significantly higher level of drivetrain refinement than that of a conventional powerplant.

Page 1: Overview
Page 2: Powertrain
Page 3: Dynamics
Page 4: Safety
Page 5: Comfort

Dynamics

The Lexus Ls 600h features an all-wheel drive transmission, relying on a 3-differential configuration and a propeller shaft, coupled directly to the hybrid transmission. a permanently engaged mechanical transfer system distributes drive power with a ratio of 40% to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. a centre limited-slip differential optimises grip, traction and vehicle handling on all-road conditions. Nevertheless, the aWD system has been developed to deliver typical rear wheel drive characteristics, essential to a dynamic, premium segment sedan. Traction and grip characteristics are further enhanced by the vehicle’s advanced stability control system, Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management.

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) ThenewLs600hisequippedwiththelatestgenerationofLexus’state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management (VDiM) system, to enhance traction control and vehicle stability. With comprehensive status data provided by sensors throughout the vehicle, V DiM integrates the Ls 600h’s Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB), anti-Lock Brakes (aBs), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TrC) and Vehicle stability Control (VsC) active safety systems with the adaptive Variable suspension (aVs), Electric Power steering (EPs), and Variable Gear ratio steering (VGrs)

Unique to the Lexus flagship, the Ls 600h drive-train’s Driving response and acceleration Management system (DraMs) also affords VDiM unprecedented interaction with both engine and transmission, employing engine and motor output to effect a faster, smoother and more precise response to situations involving the possibility of a loss of traction, such as mid-corner gear changes.

Whereas conventional active safety systems are only activated immediately after a limit of the vehicle’s performance envelope has been reached, VDiM progressively engages before that limit is realised. as a result, VDiM offers smoother vehicle behaviour at this threshold through less obtrusive intervention and, hence, a more pleasurable drive.

Air Suspension with Active Stabilisers, AVS and vehicle posture control The Ls 600h’s air suspension utilises new pneumatic springs operating in co-operation with an improved adaptive Variable suspension system (aVs). This features a vehicle posture control to synchronise vehicle roll and pitch when cornering, for maximum passenger comfort. The Lexus hybrid flagship further benefits from active stabilisers to reduce body roll when cornering and, hence, improve the Ls 600h’s dynamic abilities.

The active stabiliser system features an actuator centrally located on both front and rear anti-roll bars. The actuator comprises a DC brushless motor with attendant reduction gear, capable of applying torque to both left and right hand sections of the stabiliser bar. a system ECU calculates the twist torque output required based on sensor-fed steering angle and vehicle velocity information. The twist force applied to both front and rear stabiliser bars controls vehicle roll motion, reducing body roll angle to promote improved vehicle stability, superior cornering performance and improved agility through enhanced steering response.

Adaptive Variable suspension (aVs) allows the driver to fine tune the Ls 600h’s ride characteristics with a choice of three damper settings activated via a switch adjacent to the gear lever; ‘Normal’ mode, an intermediate level for everyday driving, ‘COMF’, for improved comfort on more degraded roads, and ‘sPOrT’ mode, for improved body control

and precise responses to steering input whilst cornering. in either mode, aVs automatically adjusts the performance of the suspension at all four wheels independently, monitoring data from numerous sensor locations to continuously optimise the damping force of each shock absorber through 9 incremental steps.

Selecting the aVs system’s ‘sPOrT’ mode automatically increases the difference between inner and outer shock absorber damping through corners by approximately 20% to further reduce vehicle roll. simultaneously, VGrs automatically reduces the steering gear ratio by approximately 0% whilst the Electric Power steering (EPs) simultaneously increases steering assist torque. These measures combine to minimise body roll, sharpen vehicle handling and optimise steering feel for true sports sedan driving.

A new vehicle posture control damping force control logic is incorporated within the active Variable suspension system to minimise the phase difference between body roll and pitch angles during cornering. research by Lexus engineers has revealed that a large phase difference between roll and pitch angles can cause passenger discomfort by exacerbating the perception of vehicle body roll whilst cornering.

The new control logic estimates both pitch and roll angles from the G-sensor value on the sprung mass, computing a target pitch angle from the resulting roll angle. Via the air springs, vehicle posture control applies feedback control to minimise differences between target and actual pitch angle, which, in turn, minimises the phase difference between roll and pitch angles. This phase synchronisation elicits a smooth, controlled roll whilst cornering, with a well-matched vehicle response to steering, yaw and roll, and an enhanced perception of rear tyre grip.

Page 1: Overview
Page 2: Powertrain
Page 3: Dynamics
Page 4: Safety
Page 5: Comfort

Safety

As exemplified by the numerous revolutionary developments based on the principle of accident avoidance through intelligent anticipation showcased in the new Ls range, Lexus now offers the highest content of sophisticated preventive safety technology in the world.

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety System (PCS)

a further development of the system already featured in the is and Gs model range, an enhanced Pre-Crash safety system offers maximum assistance to the driver in collision avoidance either by day or night. The advanced PCs now incorporates four world firsts, an advanced Obstacle Detection system, a Driver Monitoring system, Emergency steering assist and a rear Pre-Crash safety system. These innovations secure optimum vehicle responsiveness on evasive manoeuvres and reduce the consequences of a collision.

Advanced Obstacle Detection System

The advanced Obstacle Detection system combines information detected by both a millimetre wave radar and an infrared stereo camera. The millimetre-wave radar is mounted within the Ls grille, scanning the road ahead. The stereo camera consists of two near-infrared CCD lenses mounted 350 mm apart at the head of the windscreen, transmitting digital video images. Near-infrared projectors built into the high-beam function of the headlamps help obstacle detection at night, beyond the range of the low-beam headlamps. subject to weather conditions, the advanced Obstacle Detection system can detect a wide range of obstacles, including, for the first time, pedestrians.

Driver Monitoring System

The advanced Lexus Pre-Crash safety system also features the world’s first Driver Monitoring system. This system employs a CCD camera, mounted on top of the steering column cover, equipped with six built-in near infrared LEDs to give an identical detection performance by day or night. First using an algorithm to detect the position of the facial features (eyes, nose and mouth) and measuring the width and centre line of the face, the Driver Monitoring system is able to monitor the movement of the driver’s head when looking from side to side. if the driver turns his or her head away from the road ahead and an obstacle is detected in front of the Ls, the system will automatically activate the Pre-Crash warning buzzer function and briefly apply the brakes to alert him to the situation. if the driver does not respond immediately, the PCs system will proceed to engage all the other subsequent Pre-Crash functions.

Emergency Steering Assist

Through a close interaction between the Variable Gear ratio steering (VGrs), Vehicle Dynamics integrated Management (VDiM) and adaptive Variable suspension (aVs) systems, Emergency steering assist substantially improves the vehicle’s response to the driver’s steering input in the likelihood of a collision, increasing the chances of avoiding the obstacle.

Rear Pre-Crash Safety System

Operating when stationary or in motion, the rear Pre-Crash safety system employs a millimetre-wave radar installed within the rear bumper to constantly scan the area around the back of the vehicle. if a collision is deemed unavoidable, the system automatically activates the front Pre-Crash intelligent Headrests, which move forwards and upwards to cushion the occupant’s head in anticipation of an impact, greatly reducing the risk of whiplash injury.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

available on the Ls, Gs and is 250, the adaptive Cruise Control (aCC) offers both constant speed control, and vehicle-to-vehicle distance control modes (possible activation between approximately 45 km/h and 70 km/h). Employing the PCs millimetre-wave radar sensor, the vehicle­to-vehicle distance control system is capable of differentiating between vehicles directly ahead of the Lexus and those in an adjacent lane. it will automatically match the speed of the vehicle in front and, once the road ahead is clear, accelerate back up to the selected cruising speed.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

Lane-Keeping assist system (LKa) comes to the European luxury market for the first time in the Lexus Ls. subject to weather and road conditions, the system monitors white line road markings via the stereo imaging camera to determine whether the vehicle is moving out of a given lane and can provide an audible warning as well as steering support to help the driver regain the correct road position.

Activated by the driver, the Lane-Keeping assist system offers a choice of two functions, dependent on whether or not the Ls’s adaptive Cruise Control (aCC) is simultaneously in operation.

if aCC is inactive, the system offers a Lane Departure Warning (LDW) function only. Operational from approximately 50 km/h and within a lane width of between 3 and 4 metres, LDW detects the possibility of lane departure second in advance. When detecting the possibility of lane departure, this function encourages the driver to steer back into the lane

During aCC operation, LKa further offers a Lane Keep (LK) function. LK is operational at speeds of approximately 75-70 km/h and within a lane width of between 3 and 4 metres.

LK provides steering torque merely to assist the driver in providing the most appropriate steering response to re-centre the car within the lane, and the driver should maintain active control of the steering throughout. He or she can override the system’s torque output at any time through steering effort, similar to that required when changing lanes. in addition, through monitoring the driver’s steering input, Lane Keep will automatically deactivate when hands-free driving is detected.

Page 1: Overview
Page 2: Powertrain
Page 3: Dynamics
Page 4: Safety
Page 5: Comfort

Comfort

The new, long-wheelbase Ls 600h L measures 5,50 mm in length. With identical front and rear overhangs to those of the standard, 5,030 mm long Lexus Ls 600h, the additional 20 mm extends the wheelbase of the Ls 600h L to 3,090 mm, and is entirely dedicated to increased rear passenger legroom and comfort.

Offering unparalleled ^st class travelling luxury in the premium automotive segment, the rear of the long-wheelbase hybrid flagship cabin is equipped with a reclining, heated and air-conditioned seat featuring a unique massage facility, the world’s first human body temperature sensing air-conditioning system, and a rear seat Entertainment system featuring a separate DVD player and retractable, ceiling mounted, 9� full-colour screen. To these features is added the 5. home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson^{®} reference surround system.

The peerless refinement and performance of the state-of-the-art V8 hybrid powertrain combined with the ultra-luxurious rear seat amenities of the long-wheelbase Lexus flagship to realise the world’s most sophisticated, technologically advanced driving experience.

Multi-Zone Automatic Climate Control

Unique to long-wheelbase versions of the Lexus flagship, Multi-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.

Multi-zone automatic Climate Control uses a roof-mounted infra-red sensor to measure temperature in 6 different cabin matrix cells, including every passenger temperature. in addition to three out-flow temperature sensors for the separate temperature zones (one at the front, two at the rear), two front face duct sensors, an external temperature sensor, two solar sensors for front and rear seats and an air pressure sensor, the system also features both front and rear cabin evaporation sensors. in response to information provided by these two sensors, intake air is first cooled according to its humidity, then dried and heated to the desired temperature. This avoids the sore throat feeling that can be generated by conventional air conditioners.

Measuring the body temperature of each occupant enables the Multi-zone automatic Climate Control system to assess their specific thermal comfort and then instigate bespoke adjustments to each of the air-conditioning system’s four independent zones.

If, for example, a passenger enters the vehicle feeling particularly hot, the system will automatically adjust the climate in his or her immediate environment to a cooler than normal setting, for as long as necessary to bring body temperature down to satisfactory levels. similarly, if a passenger enters the vehicle feeling very cold, the system will automatically boost warming to the relevant zone until the infrared sensor registers the required body temperature.

No less than 20 individual outlets distribute warm or cold air through the cabin of the new Ls 600h L. Besides B-pillar outlets, rear seat passengers benefit from the world’s first roof Climate Diffusers. Mounted above each outer rear seat, the generously sized roof Climate Diffusers offer unparalleled climate control around a passenger’s head and neck. By diffusing low-volume, fresh cooling air directly into the area of the rear passenger’s heads, the roof Climate Diffusers fully counteract the effects of roof and rear window absorbed solar radiant heat, something impossible to achieve with conventional roof or B-pillar outlets.

The Ls 600h L adopts a high output climate control system, designed to quickly generate and maintain an adequate interior climate, which has been tested to excel in even the most extreme weather conditions. The maximum air flow volume to the cabin in heating mode under driving conditions is 635 m³/h (762 kg/h). This powerful air conditioning system adopts a variable-displacement compressor. This allows the air conditioning system to work only as it is needed - and therefore economically.

The Ls 600h L further benefits from a heat exchanger with integrated PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating. This system will warm the front cabin area as quickly as possible after vehicle start-up, before the engine itself has reached a sufficiently high running temperature to supply heating to the air-conditioning system.

Multi-zone automatic Climate Control also operates in co-operation with the individual heating and fan-assisted air-conditioning system of the Ls 600h L’s front and rear seats. The activation of any seat air-conditioning system is taken into consideration by a semi-conductor, heat exchange element. This element automatically adjusts the temperature of the air blown by the seat fans, optimising passenger comfort at the required temperature settings.

Reclining Rear Seat with Leg and Footrest

The new Ls 600h L features two, individual leather rear seats, divided by a bespoke centre console which is finished in a range of real wood and genuine leather trim perfectly matched to the interior colour scheme.

As with the front seats, the rear seat bases incorporate a three-dimensional net, tailored to the characteristics of human muscles, to enhance both vibration damping and support during high-speed cornering. The seats feature power adjustment, operable both via the centre console control panel and a remote control unit. Both seats can be reclined and also include a centre seatback flexing function.

In addition, the rear seat diagonally opposite that of the driver (the right hand seat in LHD vehicles) can be reclined to a maximum of 45 degrees, further featuring a fully retractable thigh and footrest for the ultimate in limousine seating comfort. To enhance legroom when fully reclined, the

travel of the front seat has been extended by 40 mm. The front passenger seat headrest can be automatically folded down to improve visibility for the rear passenger.

Rear Seat Relaxation System

Coupled with a conventional vibration massage system, the rear seat opposite to that of the driver is equipped with a new, air-assisted massage system incorporating a remote air pump, located in the luggage compartment to ensure silent operation. This 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 with a range of different programmes - the intensity of which may be adjusted by the user - including shiatsu, shoulder and lower back acupressure.

SRS Rear Seat Cushion Airbag

The rear seat with thigh and footrest also incorporates a new seat cushion airbag – unique to this segment - which activates during frontal impact, inflating the front area of the seat base to reduce the forward and downward ‘submarining’ motion of the occupant’s pelvis and, hence, minimise abdominal injury.

Rear Seat Entertainment System

The Lexus Ls 600h L rear seat Entertainment system features a separate DVD/CD player and retractable, ceiling mounted, 9� full-colour VGa screen for the 5. home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson^{®} reference surround system.

In addition to a rear screen-dedicated DVD/CD player, the rear centre console houses a storage compartment for DVDs, CDs and headphones, a 4-litre 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 sunshades. The Ls 600h L features power sunshades to both rear and side door windows, including the rear quarterlight. as with the glovebox and front centre console, all rear centre console compartment lids offer seamless operation at the touch of a fingertip.

The rear seat Entertainment system DVD/CD player employs the 5 channel, 450-Watt rMs amplifier and 9 loudspeakers of the peerless Mark Levinson^{®} reference surround system, reproducing ‘discrete’ 5. sound via a surround sound 7. channel speaker topology. The fully independent, rear seat home theatre system incorporates a power operated, retractable, ceiling-mounted, 9� full colour LCD screen. Whereas

DVD playback on the front Electro Multi Vision screen stops in order not to distract the driver, the rear unit will continue to screen DVDs whilst the Ls 600h L is in motion. The high definition, wide screen, full colour display has now evolved from EGa to VGa (800 x 480 pixels) and replaces the previous system’s 256 colour range with a remarkable 32,000 colours.

The system also incorporates an rCa plug within the 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 Ls 600h L without distraction to the driver or front seat passenger.

Advanced Craftsmanship

A totally new production process for the manufacture of the Ls flagship at the company’s Tahara factory, advanced Craftsmanship integrates Lexus’ legendary manufacturing quality with an entirely humanised focus on subliminal quality. This refers to those aspects of a car that cannot be physically measured or quantified, yet contribute at a fundamental level to perceptions of the very highest overall quality.

Employing several techniques unique in the automotive industry, advanced Craftsmanship combines state-of-the-art automated manufacturing operations and the ultimate in digital measurement technology with the expertise of rigorously trained master craftsmen at every stage of development, production and quality control.