Lexus unveils hybrid

LUXURY car lovers who care about the environment can now climb into the world's first full luxury hybrid car in Bahrain.

Ebrahim K Kanoo has unveiled the Lexus LS600hL hybrid luxury sedan at its Sitra showroom.

The car's makers say it was designed to epitomise the concept of 'progressive luxury'. It has been equipped with 'Lexus Hybrid Drive', an advanced hybrid system Lexus believes offers superior environmental and safety performance.

Ismail H Akbar, executive general manager of sales in Ebrahim K Kanoo, said: "We believe it will be a remarkable success,

"The LS600hL is considered to be a quantum leap in automotive technology for the unprecedented power, quietness and control it offers.

"This is the first hybrid launch of Lexus in the GCC. Later this year, the company will also release another 'small range' hybrid.

"The concept of hybrid is new to the region and we are currently training our staff to assist customers about the technology."

The Lexus Hybrid Drive combines two different power sources - a 5.0 litre V8 newly-developed petrol engine and a high output compact electric motor to deliver the power of a V12 engine with the efficiency of a V6 engine.

Hybrid systems are either mild or full. In mild hybrids, the engine is generally the major power source and must be turned on to operate the vehicle while the electric motors assist the engine, which helps reduce the sound of the engine and increase fuel efficiency to some extent.

In full hybrid systems, the engine noise level is substantially reduced and the fuel efficiency levels are much higher since power is generated from both the engine and the electric motor.

Outstanding performance, quietness, powerful acceleration and better environmental performance are the features the company believes makes the Lexus LS600hL stand out.

The Lexus Hybrid Drive's gauges and monitors enable the driver to observe the status of the hybrid power-train in real time through an indicator that is located within the instrument panel.

By monitoring the ECO Driving Indicator, the driver can know whether his driving style is economical or not. Also, setting the vehicle to run on the EV (Electric Vehicle) drive mode makes it run on electric power alone for a period of time.

The LS600hL also boasts impressive design features including a rear seat relaxation system with an advanced entertainment system that is integrated into the back of the centre console box.

Ayman Shehadeh, Toyota and Lexus brand manager, said: "Lexus has always been forward looking and futuristic in developing its vehicles."

The dealership is offering a special off-road price for three months below BD49,000.

For details, contact the showroom on 17730730.