**2006 RX400h offical thread with pics**
09-04-04, 10:26 AM
#154
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Some more 2005 RX 400h news
hope the admins don't mind me making another thread since one is already stickied, but i don't think many people look at that anymore, so maybe we can continue the discussion here on newer articles i found so far;
The world’s first hybrid petrol-electric car in the premium segment
Second generation Hybrid Synergy Drive technology delivers power and performance appropriate for a luxury 4x4
3.3-litre V6 petrol engine combines with electric motors to produce approximately 270bhp
Fuel consumption to match a standard four-cylinder saloon and ultra-low carbon dioxide emissions
Continuously variable automatic transmission
World-first application of Vehicle Dynamics Management (VDM) advanced vehicle stability control system
UK debut of production model, due for UK sale in 2005
The Lexus RX400h makes its UK debut at the Sunday Times Motor Show Live, a vehicle that is set to make history as the first hybrid petrol-electric production model in the premium car market when sales begin in early 2005.
Equipped with the latest development of Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, the RX400h offers performance worthy of a conventional 4.0-litre V8 engine, yet achieves substantial improvements in fuel economy, exhaust emissions along with smoother and quieter operation.
At the same time as the RX400h makes important advances in technology, it makes no compromises in the high levels of quality and refinement that are characteristic of all Lexus models, which have helped make the RX series a great success since the all-new model range was launched in 2003.
New Hybrid Power System
Fuel economy and low emissions have been traditional advantages of hybrid power systems. Where the RX400h is concerned, these qualities are now matched by impressive power output, too. The 400 in the vehicle’s name refers not to engine capacity, but to the fact the output can compare to that of a 4.0-litre petrol engine.
Lexus engineers have developed a hybrid system specifically for the RX400h, based on the Hybrid Synergy Drive concept used to great effect in the new Toyota Prius. They redesigned and refined the electrics, mechanical components and control elements to achieve performance levels appropriate for a luxury 4x4.
The powertrain uses a conventional 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine working in tandem with two powerful electric motors to provide an intelligent four-wheel drive system, improved low to mid-range acceleration, braking and fuel efficiency and minimised carbon dioxide emissions.
In addition to the petrol engine and the electric motors, the system also features a generator, high-performance battery and a power split device that enables power from the different sources to be combined or re-allocated according to driving conditions. The high-speed interaction of the different components in the system is governed by a power control unit.
In order to achieve higher output from the Hybrid Synergy Drive system, electrical capability was increased. Booster devices were added and a new high-speed front motor that operates at twice the speed, producing more than twice the power of that used in the Prius. Adding a rear motor enables four-wheel drive, and a newly developed nickel-metalhydride battery again produces almost double the power of that in the Prius.
The strength of the RX400h’s powertrain is expressed in a maximum output of around 270bhp, compared to 110bhp for the Prius. This gives the RX400h a top speed to match the existing RX300, but with a nought to 62mph acceleration time of less than eight seconds. More than that, fuel consumption is improved to a level usually associated with a four-cylinder family saloon.
The powertrain complies with Euro IV emissions standards and produces much less carbon dioxide compared to rival premium 4x4s with a similar power output.
Maximum efficiency, minimum fuss
Although the RX400h makes extensive use of advanced technologies, it is not complex to drive. The drive system is engaged by means of a gearlever mounted on the dashboard, operating a seamless, continuously variable transmission.
In the course of any journey, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system will operate in several different modes in order to maximise efficiency. At rest, the engine will automatically stop to conserve fuel. At times when engine efficiency is low, such as on start-up and at low to mid-range speeds, the vehicle will run on its electric motors alone, reducing exhaust emissions to zero.
In normal driving, power from the engine will be divided by the power split device both to drive the wheels directly and to power the generator, which, in turn, drives the electric motors. In these circumstances, power allocation is constantly monitored and adjusted between the engine and motors to maximise efficiency. When sudden acceleration is required, engine and electric motors operate in tandem, with extra power supplied by the battery to boost motor response.
Intelligent four-wheel drive
The RX400h’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system uniquely features a second electric motor to drive the rear wheels and provide electric four-wheel drive for certain driving conditions.
Controlled by the Vehicle Dynamics Management system, the four-wheel drive is automatically engaged via continuously adjusted front and rear electric motor torque, as when accelerating hard from standstill or through the gears, when cornering, or whenever a loss of traction from the front wheels is detected.
Moreover, during deceleration and under braking, the engine switches off and the electric motors act as high-output generators, driven by all four wheels. This regenerative braking system optimises energy management by recovering kinetic energy that would usually be lost as heat and storing it as electrical energy in the battery. In addition, battery power level is constantly managed by the engine-driven generator, which means there is no need to recharge the system from an external source.
Vehicle Dynamics Management
In conjunction with the new Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the RX400h has enhanced handling and driving stability thanks to its re-tuned suspension, specially designed Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and the installation of Vehicle Dynamics Management, one of the most advanced vehicle stability control systems currently available.
The VDM is less obtrusive that conventional VSC systems, but is ultimately more effective. By means of high-speed "by-wire" throttle, brake and transmission technology, VDM co-ordinates control of the Hybrid Synergy Drive, the electric four-wheel drive and Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB), adjusting front and rear electric motor torque according to driving conditions and stabilising vehicle behaviour on low grip surfaces, such as snow or mud.
Flagship Of The RX Series
The RX400h shares the sleek and muscular styling of the RX300, but will be the flagship of the range riding on bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels and featuring a redesigned front grille, fog lamps and bumper. The cabin displays all the trademark Lexus values of peerless comfort, outstanding quality and driving ergonomics. Exclusive brushed aluminium trim reflects the state-of-the-art technology used in the powertrain. On the instrument panel in front of the driver, the tachometer is replaced by a power meter. The driver can also monitor the operation of the different elements in the Hybrid Synergy Drive system by means of a continuous read out on the seven-inch touch display screen on the centre console.
source: http://www.carpages.co.uk/lexus/lexu...1_21_05_04.asp
February 14, 2004
The world first hybrid Lexus RX400h 4-wheel drive SUV at the 2004 Geneva Motorshow
Its completely new hybrid system is based on the Hybrid Synergy Drive concept already used on the Toyota Prius. On the RX400h, It employs front and rear electric motors and a 3.3 litre, V6 petrol engine, which combine to produce a maximum power output of approximately 200 kW (270 hp) via continually variable automatic transmission and electric 4-wheel drive.
This gives the RX400h a comparable top speed to that of the existing RX300, but overall performance superiority (0-100kph/62mph) in less than 8 seconds. Furthermore, the RX400h boasts the lowest Premium SUV CO2 emissions in the world.
The RX400h will already be on the market during the first quarter of 2005.
source: http://www.auto-innovations.com/actu-news/051.html
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
if anyone has anymore good articles, please do post
. all in all, i can't wait. i was going to purchase a '04, but i figure i might as well wait til april and get the 400h.
edit: put 2004 by accident, i know its 2005
The world’s first hybrid petrol-electric car in the premium segment
Second generation Hybrid Synergy Drive technology delivers power and performance appropriate for a luxury 4x4
3.3-litre V6 petrol engine combines with electric motors to produce approximately 270bhp
Fuel consumption to match a standard four-cylinder saloon and ultra-low carbon dioxide emissions
Continuously variable automatic transmission
World-first application of Vehicle Dynamics Management (VDM) advanced vehicle stability control system
UK debut of production model, due for UK sale in 2005
The Lexus RX400h makes its UK debut at the Sunday Times Motor Show Live, a vehicle that is set to make history as the first hybrid petrol-electric production model in the premium car market when sales begin in early 2005.
Equipped with the latest development of Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, the RX400h offers performance worthy of a conventional 4.0-litre V8 engine, yet achieves substantial improvements in fuel economy, exhaust emissions along with smoother and quieter operation.
At the same time as the RX400h makes important advances in technology, it makes no compromises in the high levels of quality and refinement that are characteristic of all Lexus models, which have helped make the RX series a great success since the all-new model range was launched in 2003.
New Hybrid Power System
Fuel economy and low emissions have been traditional advantages of hybrid power systems. Where the RX400h is concerned, these qualities are now matched by impressive power output, too. The 400 in the vehicle’s name refers not to engine capacity, but to the fact the output can compare to that of a 4.0-litre petrol engine.
Lexus engineers have developed a hybrid system specifically for the RX400h, based on the Hybrid Synergy Drive concept used to great effect in the new Toyota Prius. They redesigned and refined the electrics, mechanical components and control elements to achieve performance levels appropriate for a luxury 4x4.
The powertrain uses a conventional 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine working in tandem with two powerful electric motors to provide an intelligent four-wheel drive system, improved low to mid-range acceleration, braking and fuel efficiency and minimised carbon dioxide emissions.
In addition to the petrol engine and the electric motors, the system also features a generator, high-performance battery and a power split device that enables power from the different sources to be combined or re-allocated according to driving conditions. The high-speed interaction of the different components in the system is governed by a power control unit.
In order to achieve higher output from the Hybrid Synergy Drive system, electrical capability was increased. Booster devices were added and a new high-speed front motor that operates at twice the speed, producing more than twice the power of that used in the Prius. Adding a rear motor enables four-wheel drive, and a newly developed nickel-metalhydride battery again produces almost double the power of that in the Prius.
The strength of the RX400h’s powertrain is expressed in a maximum output of around 270bhp, compared to 110bhp for the Prius. This gives the RX400h a top speed to match the existing RX300, but with a nought to 62mph acceleration time of less than eight seconds. More than that, fuel consumption is improved to a level usually associated with a four-cylinder family saloon.
The powertrain complies with Euro IV emissions standards and produces much less carbon dioxide compared to rival premium 4x4s with a similar power output.
Maximum efficiency, minimum fuss
Although the RX400h makes extensive use of advanced technologies, it is not complex to drive. The drive system is engaged by means of a gearlever mounted on the dashboard, operating a seamless, continuously variable transmission.
In the course of any journey, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system will operate in several different modes in order to maximise efficiency. At rest, the engine will automatically stop to conserve fuel. At times when engine efficiency is low, such as on start-up and at low to mid-range speeds, the vehicle will run on its electric motors alone, reducing exhaust emissions to zero.
In normal driving, power from the engine will be divided by the power split device both to drive the wheels directly and to power the generator, which, in turn, drives the electric motors. In these circumstances, power allocation is constantly monitored and adjusted between the engine and motors to maximise efficiency. When sudden acceleration is required, engine and electric motors operate in tandem, with extra power supplied by the battery to boost motor response.
Intelligent four-wheel drive
The RX400h’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system uniquely features a second electric motor to drive the rear wheels and provide electric four-wheel drive for certain driving conditions.
Controlled by the Vehicle Dynamics Management system, the four-wheel drive is automatically engaged via continuously adjusted front and rear electric motor torque, as when accelerating hard from standstill or through the gears, when cornering, or whenever a loss of traction from the front wheels is detected.
Moreover, during deceleration and under braking, the engine switches off and the electric motors act as high-output generators, driven by all four wheels. This regenerative braking system optimises energy management by recovering kinetic energy that would usually be lost as heat and storing it as electrical energy in the battery. In addition, battery power level is constantly managed by the engine-driven generator, which means there is no need to recharge the system from an external source.
Vehicle Dynamics Management
In conjunction with the new Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the RX400h has enhanced handling and driving stability thanks to its re-tuned suspension, specially designed Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and the installation of Vehicle Dynamics Management, one of the most advanced vehicle stability control systems currently available.
The VDM is less obtrusive that conventional VSC systems, but is ultimately more effective. By means of high-speed "by-wire" throttle, brake and transmission technology, VDM co-ordinates control of the Hybrid Synergy Drive, the electric four-wheel drive and Electronically Controlled Braking (ECB), adjusting front and rear electric motor torque according to driving conditions and stabilising vehicle behaviour on low grip surfaces, such as snow or mud.
Flagship Of The RX Series
The RX400h shares the sleek and muscular styling of the RX300, but will be the flagship of the range riding on bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels and featuring a redesigned front grille, fog lamps and bumper. The cabin displays all the trademark Lexus values of peerless comfort, outstanding quality and driving ergonomics. Exclusive brushed aluminium trim reflects the state-of-the-art technology used in the powertrain. On the instrument panel in front of the driver, the tachometer is replaced by a power meter. The driver can also monitor the operation of the different elements in the Hybrid Synergy Drive system by means of a continuous read out on the seven-inch touch display screen on the centre console.
source: http://www.carpages.co.uk/lexus/lexu...1_21_05_04.asp
February 14, 2004
The world first hybrid Lexus RX400h 4-wheel drive SUV at the 2004 Geneva Motorshow
Its completely new hybrid system is based on the Hybrid Synergy Drive concept already used on the Toyota Prius. On the RX400h, It employs front and rear electric motors and a 3.3 litre, V6 petrol engine, which combine to produce a maximum power output of approximately 200 kW (270 hp) via continually variable automatic transmission and electric 4-wheel drive.
This gives the RX400h a comparable top speed to that of the existing RX300, but overall performance superiority (0-100kph/62mph) in less than 8 seconds. Furthermore, the RX400h boasts the lowest Premium SUV CO2 emissions in the world.
The RX400h will already be on the market during the first quarter of 2005.
source: http://www.auto-innovations.com/actu-news/051.html
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
if anyone has anymore good articles, please do post
. all in all, i can't wait. i was going to purchase a '04, but i figure i might as well wait til april and get the 400h.edit: put 2004 by accident, i know its 2005
Last edited by Cobra V; 09-04-04 at 10:28 AM.
09-07-04, 12:16 PM
#155
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Of special interest to those folks considering buying or leasing an RX400h is the latest Press Release from Toyota/Lexus. Here are the highlights:
Lexus announced today that its dealers have received more than 9,000 pre-sold orders for the 2006 RX 400h luxury gas-electric hybrid SUV through August month-end.
"We've received significantly more pre-launch orders for the 400h than we've had for any vehicle in our entire 15-year history," said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager, Denny Clements. "Although we're pleased with the early public response to the 400h, we are mindful of our need to respond to these customers in a timely manner," he added.
Lexus recently announced to dealers that the 400h will arrive in showrooms early next year as a 2006 model. The company said after pre-production prototypes are evaluated later this month, it will announce specific on-sale launch timing for the U.S. and other global markets.
"It's imperative we provide accurate information to our dealers and their customers regarding the anticipated arrival of these vehicles," said Clements. "We're already planning ahead with the development of a new retail ordering program, and we've started a dedicated customer communication system," he added.
The new customer communication system will correspond directly with wait-list customers on at-least a quarterly basis with updated information about their RX 400h order. The retail ordering system will provide Lexus dealers with the ability to assign a customer name to a specific vehicle prior to its production and then track that vehicle throughout the distribution process. This is a first for Lexus and will provide timely updates on the progress of a customer's order and their expected vehicle delivery date.
Additionally, Lexus Financial Services will extend lease agreements by as much as 12 months, if necessary, to current Lexus owners who have placed orders for a RX 400h. The plan is designed to accommodate customers who have voiced concern that their Lexus lease might run-out before their RX 400h arrives.
Lexus announced today that its dealers have received more than 9,000 pre-sold orders for the 2006 RX 400h luxury gas-electric hybrid SUV through August month-end.
"We've received significantly more pre-launch orders for the 400h than we've had for any vehicle in our entire 15-year history," said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager, Denny Clements. "Although we're pleased with the early public response to the 400h, we are mindful of our need to respond to these customers in a timely manner," he added.
Lexus recently announced to dealers that the 400h will arrive in showrooms early next year as a 2006 model. The company said after pre-production prototypes are evaluated later this month, it will announce specific on-sale launch timing for the U.S. and other global markets.
"It's imperative we provide accurate information to our dealers and their customers regarding the anticipated arrival of these vehicles," said Clements. "We're already planning ahead with the development of a new retail ordering program, and we've started a dedicated customer communication system," he added.
The new customer communication system will correspond directly with wait-list customers on at-least a quarterly basis with updated information about their RX 400h order. The retail ordering system will provide Lexus dealers with the ability to assign a customer name to a specific vehicle prior to its production and then track that vehicle throughout the distribution process. This is a first for Lexus and will provide timely updates on the progress of a customer's order and their expected vehicle delivery date.
Additionally, Lexus Financial Services will extend lease agreements by as much as 12 months, if necessary, to current Lexus owners who have placed orders for a RX 400h. The plan is designed to accommodate customers who have voiced concern that their Lexus lease might run-out before their RX 400h arrives.
09-08-04, 10:57 AM
#157
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RX400h setting records already!!!
Saw this article on MSN.
Just want to share it with fellow CL members.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5941899/
Way to go Lexus!!
Just want to share it with fellow CL members.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5941899/
Way to go Lexus!!
Last edited by TRD-bB; 09-08-04 at 10:58 AM.
09-08-04, 03:24 PM
#158
Will the RX400 have bluetooth?
Hi all,
Does anyone know if the RX400 will have bluetooth? I want to use a cell phone with the car's bluetooth. This would be So cool. - Tony
Does anyone know if the RX400 will have bluetooth? I want to use a cell phone with the car's bluetooth. This would be So cool.
- Tony
09-12-04, 01:34 AM
#159
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Re: Will the RX400 have bluetooth?
Originally posted by thwang99
Hi all,
Does anyone know if the RX400 will have bluetooth? I want to use a cell phone with the car's bluetooth. This would be So cool. - Tony
Hi all,
Does anyone know if the RX400 will have bluetooth? I want to use a cell phone with the car's bluetooth. This would be So cool.
- Tony
09-22-04, 10:06 AM
#160
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Best Place to buy the RX400H ??
Does anyone have a contact or recommended place to purchase the RX400H from? My wife wants one so I contacted our local dealer and they will put us on the list (#15) take a deposit and sell us the vehicle for MSRP ONLY! Bah! We purchased the RX300 we used to own about 3 months after they came out and we got it for $2k above invoice or about $4k off MSRP I believe it was at the time. No way I'm paying MSRP when there are plenty of deals to be found on existing RX330's.
I thought I'd post here and see if anyone has a recommended dealer/salesperson, etc. that has a low line number and is willing to deal on price.
Thanks in Advance!
I thought I'd post here and see if anyone has a recommended dealer/salesperson, etc. that has a low line number and is willing to deal on price.
Thanks in Advance!
09-22-04, 10:22 AM
#161
Re: Best Place to buy the RX400H ??
Originally posted by RXKen
Does anyone have a contact or recommended place to purchase the RX400H from? My wife wants one so I contacted our local dealer and they will put us on the list (#15) take a deposit and sell us the vehicle for MSRP ONLY! Bah! We purchased the RX300 we used to own about 3 months after they came out and we got it for $2k above invoice or about $4k off MSRP I believe it was at the time. No way I'm paying MSRP when there are plenty of deals to be found on existing RX330's.
I thought I'd post here and see if anyone has a recommended dealer/salesperson, etc. that has a low line number and is willing to deal on price.
Thanks in Advance!
Does anyone have a contact or recommended place to purchase the RX400H from? My wife wants one so I contacted our local dealer and they will put us on the list (#15) take a deposit and sell us the vehicle for MSRP ONLY! Bah! We purchased the RX300 we used to own about 3 months after they came out and we got it for $2k above invoice or about $4k off MSRP I believe it was at the time. No way I'm paying MSRP when there are plenty of deals to be found on existing RX330's.
I thought I'd post here and see if anyone has a recommended dealer/salesperson, etc. that has a low line number and is willing to deal on price.
Thanks in Advance!
RickC
09-22-04, 10:37 AM
#163
A good point since the new Mazda Miata was about 10k over invoice, the PT Cruiser was more than that. I figure MSRP isn't bad to be the first on the block with a Luxury Hybrid. I am not really into being first, but I am first on the list at my dealership. Not sure I will exercise that yet, but at least my name is in the hat.
RickC
RickC
09-22-04, 10:59 AM
#164
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What are the deals right now for the RX330? I am going to buy one when our GS gets older.
We paid MSRP for our mini cooper s and we had to wait one year for that in California.
We paid MSRP for our mini cooper s and we had to wait one year for that in California.
09-22-04, 11:03 AM
#165
I really don't know, and I think it is territorial anyway. I noticed when I bought mine that some people here were getting theirs for 3k below invoice, but I had to pay invoice for mine. I did talk them into 1k in extra allowance for my trade, but who really knows how that works out. Anyway, the local dealer here now has about a dozen RX330's on the lot, so I would think the pricing would be better. When I bought mine, they were getting about 2 a month. Also, I wanted specific color and options, so I didn't have a choice.
I would watch the ads on TV in your area as well as the papers. If you have multiple dealers, then I would shop too. We only have the one dealer in our area.
RickC
I would watch the ads on TV in your area as well as the papers. If you have multiple dealers, then I would shop too. We only have the one dealer in our area.
RickC