The Lexus Hybrid SUV: The RX 400h

Quoted the world's first luxary hybrid SUV, THe RX 400h is a masterpiece of engineering.

It was officially launched as a hybrid sport-utility vehicle at the Detroit Auto show in January 2004. Based on RX 330 the RX 400h hybrid SUV, utilizes Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.

This monster produces up to 270 horsepower with front and rear electric motors combined with a front mounted, 3.3 liter V6 internal combustion engine. It is said to significantly improve low to mid-speed acceleration and overall fuel efficiency.

The system is a "full hybrid," meaning that the Lexus hybrid is capable of operating in separate gas or electric modes, as well as a mode that combines power from both capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in under 8 secs.

It is expected to deliver combined fuel economy equivalent or better than the average compact sedan. For emissions, the Lexus hybrid will be rated Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV), one of the most stringent emissions ratings in the industry.

The Lexus hybrid will require double the battery voltage to power its all-wheel-drive system via front and rear electric drive motors, so the car feels and drives a little heavy - to support the hybrid battery packages.

The Lexus hybrid will become the premium model in the RX series. The Lexus hybrid will have features such as next generation stability control and a more powerful, advanced drivetrain. Lastly, the Lexus hybrid will have nearly every luxury that is available in the RX 330, with the exception of the exclusive use of brushed aluminum accents inside the RX 400h.

Lexus Hybrid RX 400h Standard Features

Power front-seat adjustment
Leather-trimmed interior
High-Intensity Discharge headlamps (HID) with Adaptive Front
Lighting System (AFS)
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
18-in aluminum-alloy wheels

Combining the power output from its electric drive motors and the 3.3-liter V6 engine, gives brisk acceleration from 0 to 60 in 7.3 seconds with 268-hp total system horsepower. Part-time all-wheel drive (AWD) with Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT)

The electric motor and battery pack generates 200 to 300 volts,viz. about 160 horsepower. The RX 400h features an AWD system that utilizes a separate electric drive motor at the rear.

Gas mileage: Estimated fuel economy of 28 miles per gallon (mpg) city, and 30 mpg highway. Actual mileage may vary.

Specifications

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