EnviroFleet's Lexus Hybrid Drive vehicles partner a petrol engine with one or more electric motors to deliver seamless power and responsiveness. The systems in each of our vehicles are intelligently integrated to constantly manage power sources, ensuring optimum balance between power, economy and efficiency.
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Traditional RX Luxury with EnviroFleet Corporate Transfers
The RX 400h closely follows the RX 350 in terms of standard and optional equipment, featuring a standard high-quality fabric interior, with leather trim available in several option packages. Ten-way power front seats are standard and feature a power lumbar adjustment. In addition to the standard brushed aluminium interior accents, vehicles can also come in wood trim and any interior colour.
The Lexus Navigation System with rear back-up camera integrates Bluetooth® wireless capability and voice activation and is now offered in an option package with the Mark Levinson® Premium Audio system. High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), which helps to illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it.
Lexus Hybrid Drive Technology
The Lexus Hybrid Drive system is one of the most advanced power trains in the world, yet it operates so seamlessly that it enhances the luxury experience rather than calling attention to itself. The system combines a V6 engine with a high-torque electric drive motor-generator. In the all-wheel-drive model only, an additional, rear-mounted electric-drive motor/generator provides on-road, all-wheel-drive capability.
With a combined system output of approximately 268 horsepower, and 3,500 lb.-ft. of axle torque at launch, the RX 400h delivers rapid acceleration. At 7.3 seconds (7.5 for the all-wheel drive model), acceleration from zero to 60 mph is better than some V8-powered competitors.
The RX 400h is a "full hybrid," which means it can operate in electric-only or gas-engine-only modes as well as a mode that combines the power of the gas engine and electric motor. Lexus Hybrid Drive technology allows extended electric-mode operation during low speed or stop-and-go driving conditions, reducing fuel consumption and noise.
Energy is stored by a 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack that fits neatly under the rear seat. The battery's power is directed through a "boost converter" that efficiently raises voltage to 650V DC. An inverter changes this to 650V AC, providing its elevated power to a front-mounted 123-kW electric motor that turns as high as 12,400 rpm.
The RX 400h front-wheel-drive model's hybrid power train employs two motor-generators. Known as MG1 and MG2, each one performs specific functions and each does double duty as a motor and a generator (although MG1 is a starter and provides no motive force). The engine-driven generator (MG1) can charge the battery pack or power other electric motors as needed. The all-wheel-drive RX 400h adds a third motor-generator, MGR, to drive the rear wheels.
Advanced Hybrid Transmission
Power from the gas engine and front electric drive motor (MG2) is distributed to the drive wheels via a planetary gear-type continuously variable transmission, which eliminates specific gear ratios. Two planetary gear units are used in the system. The Power-Split unit divides the engine's drive force two ways: one to drive the wheels and the other to drive MG1 so it may function as a generator. The Motor Speed Reduction unit reduces the speed of MG2 and increases its drive torque, significantly boosting acceleration performance.
MG2 produces peak torque from zero-to-1,500 rpm, giving the RX 400h powerful and instantaneous response in low- and mid-speed performance, especially in 30-50 mph merging and passing manoeuvres. In addition to its motor/generator duties, MG1 also functions as a starter motor for the gas engine and as a regulator for the amount of electrical power it generates.
MG1 controls the output speed of the transaxle through the planetary gear set, without clutches or a viscous coupling. This is one of the key elements of the Lexus Hybrid Drive power train and is how it eliminates the "shift shock" that is typically felt as even the most refined modern automatic transmissions change gears.
The all-wheel-drive RX 400h model uniquely generates rear-wheel power with a separate 50-kW electric motor (MGR) that provides up to 650 lb.-ft. of additional drive torque on demand. Thus, the RX 400h does not require power-transfer gearing or a driveshaft from the front. The system electronically varies front and rear torque distribution depending on traction conditions.
Fuel-Conserving Partners
The power-steering pump, water pump and air-conditioning compressor are driven electrically rather than by the engine. This feature is necessary because the gas engine often shuts down – a fuel-saving benefit of the hybrid system – especially when the vehicle is stopped or driven slowly through traffic. Driving these components electrically also reduces parasitic losses to the engine and improves fuel consumption.
A regenerative-braking system further boosts efficiency. When the RX 400h is coasting or its brakes are applied, the electric motors function as generators, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes and transforming it into useable electricity to recharge the batteries.
VDIM: Beyond Stability Control
The RX 400h was the first Lexus model to feature Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM). This vehicle stability control system goes well beyond conventional controls that simply react to challenging conditions. Instead, VDIM anticipates loss of traction in a turn and can help make corrections while allowing higher dynamic capability.
Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) are a vital element of VDIM. This advanced braking system translates brake pedal stroke speed and pressure and generates the precise amount of combined electric regeneration and hydraulic pressure needed for virtually any driving condition.
Under guidance from VDIM, such precise brake control at individual wheels helps allow optimized operation of the vehicle's dynamic handling systems that employ the brakes, including the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC). VDIM also interfaces with the electronic throttle control system, allowing it to control vehicle power when needed, and an electric power steering system. The compact steering unit contributes to fuel economy by eliminating the traditional power-steering pump and by providing computer-controlled assist only when called for by the driver.
VDIM continuously calculates vehicle motion based on signals from a yaw rate and deceleration sensor, speed sensor and steering sensor. Using these inputs, VDIM controls all of the vehicle's dynamic handling systems and can employ them collectively and seamlessly, which can allow it to quickly detect and then correct the onset of a loss of traction in turns and help. The ability to operate proactively means that corrections to vehicle handling are typically faster, more accurate and subtler than traditional systems, making VDIM feel smoother and essentially transparent to the driver.
Comprehensive Safety Systems
The RX 400h features the same passive-safety protection for occupants as the RX 350 model. A high-strength cabin design and comprehensive Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) are designed to help provide a high level of crash-energy management for the occupants.
SRS includes advanced front airbags for the driver and passenger, a knee airbag for the driver and front-seat-mounted side airbags. Side-curtain airbags are designed to help offer additional crash energy-management for the front- and rear-seat occupants. A roll sensor signals the side- curtain airbags to inflate if a predetermined threshold of vehicle tip-up is detected.
EnviroFleet's Lexus Luxury and Impressive Utility
The RX 400h does not sacrifice space, comfort or versatility to deliver the benefits of hybrid technology. The rear seatbacks feature a versatile 40/20/40-split design, and the seats offer both sliding and reclining adjustments. The approximately 38-cubic-foot rear-cargo capacity expands to nearly 85 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded down. An automatic retracting tonneau cover adds a measure of security and convenience to the cargo area.
Lexus craftsmanship and renowned attention to detail provide true luxury by design. Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control and 10-way power front seats with memory. The steering wheel features easy-to-use integrated controls for the audio system, trip computer and multi-information display in the speedometer. A rear back-up camera, part of the available navigation package, projects a colour image of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when reverse gear is engaged.
Because Lexus luxury also means outstanding convenience, the RX 400h comes equipped as standard with an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with an integrated digital compass; auto-dimming, heated exterior mirrors; a power-rear lift gate, and integrated HomeLink® transmitter. Comfort and convenience extend to the smallest details in the RX 400h, such as adjustable lights in the visor vanity mirrors and illuminated front cup holders. A water-repellent surface on the front side windows helps to bead rainwater.
The RX 400h can be enhanced by a number of luxury options available separately or in packages. Some include power tilt/telescope steering wheel with memory, power tilt/slide moonroof with one-touch open/close feature and jam protection, memory for driver's seat and outside mirrors, towing-preparation package, roof rack and roof rails, and Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, which measures and helps maintain a set distance from a vehicle travelling ahead.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio system features an in-dash, six-disc CD changer. For the audiophile, the quiet interior of the RX 400h provides an ideal environment to enjoy the optional Mark Levinson® Premium Audio system that plays through 11 speakers. A sound-positioning feature optimizes speaker usage depending on occupant location. Rear-seat passengers can enjoy the optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system with individual wireless headphones and a large nine-inch LCD screen.
EnviroFleet Corporate Transfers brings the solution to you - Lexus Hybrid RX 400h
Lexus GS Performance
The 2009 Lexus GS luxury sport sedan model line includes the V6-powered GS 350 and the GS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD), the V8-powered GS 460, and the only gasoline electric hybrid model in the segment, the GS 450h.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
Optimised for low internal friction, the GS 350's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 274 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. A direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission allows manual shifting when desired.
The GS 460's V8 produces 342 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 339 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,100 rpm. The GS 460, like the GS 350, meets the EPA's Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) certification. Lexus has been setting standards for power train smoothness since its inception, and the GS 460's V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission continue that tradition. The transmission, as the six-speed automatic in the GS 350 models, allows manual shifting for a more engaging driving experience, and to maximize performance in certain driving situations. The GS 460 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the GS 350 in 5.7 (5.8 for AWD).
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems with advanced dynamic handling technology to provide both agile handling and the Lexus trademark smooth ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited. A 34.1-ft. turning circle (35.4 ft. for GS 350 AWD) is comparable to that of smaller cars and helps make the GS highly manoeuvrable.
In all GS models, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help form a powerful safety front. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help minimize body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it will apply maximum braking force until pedal pressure is released.
Aluminium-alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the GS 460 and available for the rear-wheel-drive GS 350, which features standard 17-inch wheels. For maximum handling capability, the GS 350 comes standard with 225/50R17 W-rated summer tires. The all-season 17-inch run-flat tires that are standard on the GS 350 AWD model are available on the GS 350 RWD. The GS 460 is equipped with 245/40R18 Z-rated summer tires or available all-season run-flats.
The GS 350's available all-wheel-drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear centre differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on the GS 460 and available on the GS 350, provides four settings, including "sport" for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. The GS 460 also offers the advanced Active Power Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The GS 350 models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control. The system can be disengaged with the "Trac Off" switch when the situation warrants doing so.
In the GS 460, the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system integrates and manages a host of handling technologies, including VSC. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control. VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 460 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the steering gear housing. Also in the GS 460, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the steering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed manoeuvrability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential steering control, which helps correct for a delay in steering response -- something that occurs in all vehicles -- to help enhance driving feel during lane changes and other transitional manoeuvres.
The GS 460's Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 460's VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure.
Safety/Security Features
The Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver. The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers and alerts the driver accordingly. A steering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects.
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.
The rear back-up camera, available in conjunction with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help the driver avoid an accident. A millimetre-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the Adaptive Variable-air Suspension to sport mode for optimal chassis response, pre-emptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active-braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.
The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the GS 460 and available for the GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.
All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation with jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well equipped car.
The standard Lexus audio system features an AM/FM/cassette stereo and a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer. The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Leveliser (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.
Luxury Options
Within the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to life with the optional Mark Levinson® Premium Sound system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
The optional Lexus DVD Navigation System allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command. Visual support is greatly enhanced with a central screen featuring a high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel display in 32,000 colors. On-screen details are crisp and clean, and maps and roads are highlighted by 3-D shadow effects. Text display options include English, Spanish and French.
The DVD map database contains more than five million Points of Interest (POI). The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York includes a building footprint-display feature that can show graphic representations of buildings and structures to help the driver identify surroundings. System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode. Bluetooth® wireless technology integrates with the navigation system to allow the driver to make hands-free phone calls via its touch-screen control panel. Personal phone books can be transferred via Bluetooth, as well.
Exterior Design
The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS. A sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps visually connects the current GS sedans with the previous-generation models while signalling the brand's design progression. The lower valance features integrated fog lamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimise wind noise and maximize highway fuel efficiency.
Interior Design
Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the GS interior with a lavish yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather colour combinations: Light Gray leather with Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim, Cashmere leather with Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather with Red Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim steering wheel and shift knob.
Lexus designers strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate. The unique instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility in all lighting conditions.
Lexus RX 400h Corporate Hybrid
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Lexus GS 450h Luxury Hybrid
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