Daily Slideshow: Lexus Wins Award for Multi-Stage Hybrid System

The Most Complex Powertrain Ever?

When Lexus first unveiled the LC500h, everyone was blown away. But aside from halo coupe's stunning design, of particular interest was the car's multi-stage hybrid system. How in the heck could a car have both a 6-speed CVT gearbox and a standard 4-speed fixed ratio automatic transmission? Even Lexus admits that this new gearbox is part of the most complicated powertrain they've ever produced. But the results, admittedly, are paying off. The setup is so excellent that Autoblog awarded Lexus with the 2018 Technology of the Year award at this year's North American International Auto Show.

>>Join the conversation about the Multi-Stage Hybrid System right here in Club Lexus Forum.

Efficiency and Performance

Lexus won over Autoblog, as Senior Editor Alex Kierstein explained, with the fact that it "puts driver involvement front and center. While it's an efficient system, it's not just focused on efficiency. It's also focused on making it a seamless and enjoyable system that enhances driver involvement." Green Editor John Snyder notes that despite the system's complexity, "when you interact with the car, it feels seamless. Just like a normal car. It maximizes efficiency and performance, which is wonderful."

>>Join the conversation about the Multi-Stage Hybrid System right here in Club Lexus Forum.

Best of Both Worlds

Essentially, mating a traditional 4-speed automatic transmission with a CVT gives you the best of both worlds. Autoblog admits there is a small but noticeable change when the car shifts between them. But otherwise, you'd never know there were two separate units working in unison. In essence, it's like driving an excellent 10-speed automatic transmission, but one that is easily the most unique setup on the market today.

>>Join the conversation about the Multi-Stage Hybrid System right here in Club Lexus Forum.

Simulate This!

According to Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Jeff Bracken, driver involvement was precisely the goal the automaker had in mind when they developed the LC500h's multi-stage hybrid system. Essentially, it's another step forward in the move to make electric vehicles viable. Bracken notes that he challenged engineers working on the LC500h to use simulated shift points as needed but to ensure they didn't feel simulated. The results obviously speak for themselves.

>>Join the conversation about the Multi-Stage Hybrid System right here in Club Lexus Forum.

Future Proof

As Bracken reminds us, Lexus' goal is to have an electrified version of every vehicle they sell by 2025. The LC500h's multi-stage hybrid system is just another step in making that vision a reality. Enthusiasts will be happy to note, however, that Lexus "doesn't ever want to disconnect that driving thrill," regardless of what the future of automobiles looks like. And that's easily the best news of all. We have every right to be worried that things like EVs and autonomous cars might take away the pure joy that driving gives us. And yet, it's clear from developments like the multi-stage hybrid system that Lexus isn't about to let that happen!

>>Join the conversation about the Multi-Stage Hybrid System right here in Club Lexus Forum.

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