2010 Lexus HS 250h

Lexus Stages World Debut of the 2010 HS 250h - the World's First Dedicated Luxury Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit

Lexus today revealed the 2010 HS 250h, the world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, at the North American International Auto Show. This year’s show marked the 20^th anniversary of the debut of the first Lexus vehicles, the LS 400 and ES 250. The cars were introduced at the NAIAS in 1989. The HS 250h will be Lexus’ fourth hybrid and is expected to offer the best combined fuel mileage of any luxury vehicle in the U.S. It also will be the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design, helping the car to be 85% recyclable.

A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved air flow and reduced turbulence.

As is appropriate for the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, the HS 250h includes proactive adoption of plant-based, carbon-neutral "ecological plastics" or bio-plastics in specific interior areas. Ecological plastic emits less carbon dioxide during a product’s lifecycle than plastic made solely from petroleum. Among the areas of utilization will be an industry-first use in luggage-trim upholstery. Other areas are the cowl-side trim, door scuff plate, tool box area, floor-finish plate, seat cushions, and the package tray behind the rear seats. Overall, approximately 30-percent of the interior and luggage area is covered with ecological plastic. Over the estimated lifecycle of the vehicle, the HS 250h will have approximately 20-percent fewer carbon-dioxide emissions as a result of utilizing the Ecological Plastic trim pieces.

Like all Lexus hybrid models, significant time was spent in developing the HS 250h with optimized NVH characteristics. Dynamic dampers at each engine-mounting point reduce noise and vibration, resonators improve intake air noise, and optimized exhaust flow reduces exhaust sound. Special coatings dampen both engine and road noise, while improved seals around doors, hood and fenders reduce wind-noise penetration into the cabin. Vibration has been reduced by improving the shape and thickness of the suspension-mounting points. In addition, power-window speed controllers have been adopted from the LS luxury sedan, which insure a slower, soft closing rate.

The HS 250h chassis design provides an outstanding ride and comfort with the decreased NVH required by a Lexus hybrid. The MacPherson strut front suspension is designed to achieve both straight-line and braking control, and a positive steering feel. A double-wishbone rear suspension provides excellent maneuverability, control and comfort with a low spring mount that contributes to better packaging and superior cargo space. Coil springs, anti-roll bars and shock-absorber rebound springs are utilized front and rear. The HS 250h will have uniquely designed standard 17- and optional 18-inch wheels.

The rack-and-pinion steering system utilizes a brushless Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor on the steering column, which provides improved steering feel, a reduction in harsh feedback, and better emissions by not draining engine power like conventional hydraulic systems.

The EPS is an integral part of an available lane keep assist system, a new driver-assist that adds smooth steering torque to help the vehicle stay in the center of the lane. The amount of assisted torque is dependant on a lane-marker detection camera. It includes a lane departure warning feature that is designed to detect possible lane departure; it then gives the driver an audible warning and provides feedback via the steering wheel to encourage corrective action.

The HS is slightly longer than the IS and is taller than both the IS and ES. It also has a greater couple distance (distance hip to hip between front and rear passengers) than any other vehicle in its class other than the ES. The contoured front-seat backs also add to increased rear-seat legroom.

The HS features a unique advanced cockpit and an interior design that emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship. The uniquely stylish cabin has standard leather-trim seats, a moonroof, Lexus premium audio systems, and a new standard multi-media package. The media features include Bluetooth^® technology, integrated satellite radio (subscription required), voice recognition, and USB iPod connectivity controlled via steering-wheel controls or a display screen. A high-contrast multi-information display, located in the instrument panel’s hybrid system indicator gauge, is controlled via steering-wheel-mounted controls, allowing the driver to easily control various functions and information.

Another key element of the modern interior is Lexus’ new available Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation System, which features a retractable navigation screen that is positioned well back and up front in the dash. The positioning helps improve visibility and reduce driver eye movement. Similar to the new RX, the HS system features the all-new "Remote Touch" controller that is both intuitive and ergonomic and allows for easy use of the Navigation System. The controller is positioned on the center console and is as natural to the driver’s hand as a computer mouse. It can also be customized to the desired level of haptic feedback.

The Navigation System also includes a new casual-speech voice recognition feature. This allows drivers to give more flexible, conversational commands for easier access and control of the audio, climate and navigation functions. Also included are XM^® NavTraffic^® and NavWeather^TM, along with XM Sports and Stock information.

Also helping to reduce driver eye movement is an optional Heads-up Display (HUD). The HUD uses high-intensity LEDs to make the display bright enough to be read even in direct sunlight.

A class-leading 10 airbags will be standard on the all-new HS 250h as well as active front head rests, which help passengers in case of certain types of rear-end accidents. The HS also will feature Lexus’ Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system and optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

An available wide-view front monitor helps the driver to check hard-to-see areas. Using a camera mounted in the front grille, the monitor provides a 190-degree front view on the Navigation screen with the push of a button on the steering wheel.

The HS 250h will also offer Lexus’ next generation telematics systems, Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect will provide automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, 24/7 emergency and roadside assistance.

Lexus Enform’s Destination Assist features operators who will help drivers look up points of interest such as shopping centers or other business locations like Zagat-rated restaurants, and then wirelessly send directions directly to the vehicle’s navigation system.

Lexus Enform’s eDestination service will allow customers to pull up multiple points of interest on any computer and send them directly to the car’s navigation system. This innovative new feature will allow drivers to send a total of 200 destinations at a time to their vehicles.

The all-new 2010 HS 250h will reach dealerships nationwide in late summer.

Reference: lexus.com

2010 HS 250h PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

	2010 HS 250h
Total Hybrid System Horsepower	187 hp
Engine	2.4-liter 4-cylinder
Transmission	Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
Seating Capacity	5
Width (inches)	70.3
Height (inches)	59.3
Overall Length (inches)	184.8
Wheelbase (inches)	106.3
Driven Wheels	FWD
Wheels	17x7.0 w/ P215/55R17 or 18x7.5 w/ P225/45R18 (Optional)
Emissions Rating	SULEV

Reference: lexus.com

Mitsubishi Motors lineup at 2009 Geneva International Motor Show: i MiEV

Tokyo, March 3, 2009 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today gave two models their global debut at the 79^th Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 3 through March 15 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 5).

The i MiEV^*1 SPORT AIR concept model gives material shape to MMC's "Drive@earth" global tag-line. The prototype i MiEV concept, meanwhile, is a precursor to the electric vehicle the company will introduce on the European market in 2010.

Also among the 15 vehicles on the MMC stand is the European-built Colt Clear Tec compact model, which boasts premium green performance with CO₂ emissions of just 115 g/km, as well as several other European models.

^*1 MiEV: Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle

i MiEV SPORT AIR (Show model)

The i MiEV SPORT AIR is a concept for a sporty electric vehicle (hence SPORT) that gives an indication of the direction EVs may take in the future. It also gives shape to MMC's "Drive@earth" tagline announcing the company's intention to deliver fun-to-drive motoring while at the same time placing a new emphasis on environmental issues. The concept model is distinguished by its detachable "clear cutaway" roof panel which brings a wide open feel to the interior (hence AIR) for an exhilarating motoring experience,other features include a second-generation lithium-ion battery module with improved electrodes, while the body uses a number of new weight-reducing technologies.



(1)	Design
	i MiEV SPORT AIR takes i MiEV's rear-midship platform and mounts on it a dramatic teardrop-shaped body that tapers towards the rear in a design that yields outstanding aerodynamic performance. The styling also crafts a sporty image by seamlessly integrating an extensive glazed area with the body. Other design features include the front and rear lamp units cleanly styled to produce a three-dimensional look; as well as the "clear cutaway" roof panel, designed to provide an exhilarating motoring experience. The panel incorporates a solar inlay that uses printed circuit board graphics in its design. Inside, i MiEV SPORT AIR offers a welcoming ambience in a design that uses organic shapes and lighting to create a comfortable and restful space. The wrap-around cockpit design, on the other hand, is styled to alert the driver to the high performance potential of the car the moment he sits behind the wheel. The main controls and switches are all ergonomically grouped around the dial-type shifter, making for more positive location and operation by the driver. i MiEV SPORT AIR features exterior and interior coloring that takes "Japanese Technology" as its theme in projecting both a friendly, approachable image and high-tech looks. The blue exterior color evokes the image of an exhilarating clear blue sky, while the use of pearl finish paint gives a sheen to the body highlights for an overall appearance that is both friendly and futuristic while also projecting an eco-friendly image. The interior uses a high-contrast color scheme of greyish blue and "greige" (an intermediate color between grey and beige.) With the use of blue illumination for the instruments and interior lighting this two-tone scheme imparts an advanced and high-tech look to the cabin while at the same time producing a relaxing and reassuring atmosphere.
(2)	EV system
	i MiEV SPORT AIR employs the same rear-midship layout as i MiEV but uses a more powerful version of the permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that powers the base model, generating 60 kW of power (against i MiEV's 47 kW) and 230 Nm of torque (180 Nm.) The car also exploits its long wheelbase to locate the large-capacity lithium-ion battery system under the floor deck.
(3)	Body
	To lower the center of gravity and increase driving stability the main EV system components (battery module, inverter, battery charger) are located as low as possible. The roof panel is made of lightweight plastic to facilitate fitting and removal as well as to further lower the car's center of gravity. i MiEV SPORT AIR 's modular body structure uses tailgate panels and plastic body to reduce weight around the rear axle where the powertrain and EV system components are installed and thereby achieve an ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution. Of hybrid design, the body uses aluminum for the rear suspension and rear body. i MiEV SPORT AIR specifications Overall length 3650 mm Overall width 1600 mm Overall height 1520 mm Wheelbase 2550 mm Track(F/R) 1405 / 1405 mm Occupants 4 Vehicle weight 980 kg Motor output 60 kW Motor torque 230 N-m Battery system 330V lithium-ion Drive mode Rear wheel drive Tires 175/50R17



i MiEV (prototype)



(1)	Design
	With a view to its introduction on the European market, the prototype i MiEV features several changes compared to the i MiEV due to be introduced on the Japanese market in summer 2009. Front and rear tracks have been widened and front and rear overhangs have been extended to provide the higher levels of pedestrian protection expected in Europe as well as better occupant protection in the event of a rear-end shunt. The changes result in a shape that hints strongly at the vehicle's all-round stability. The interior design features simple, clean styling and with a dial-type shifter and extensive use of circular shapes for the air vents and other elements, creating a welcoming interior space. The snow-white body and ice-blue interior color derive from a "glacier" theme that was designed to evoke a strong ecological image. The printed circuit board pattern used in the surfaces and motifs adds a high-tech look to the interior.
(2)	Propulsion system
	The prototype i MiEV, like i MiEV, uses a unique rear-midship layout which in a gasoline-fueled car places the engine just in front of the rear wheels. In the prototype i MiEV the engine and fuel tank found in an engine-driven vehicle are replaced by the electric motor, inverter, lithium-ion battery module and other EV system components. The rear-midship layout offers several merits including a long wheelbase that provides more interior space. In addition, the location of the heavier EV system components under the floor deck lowers the center of gravity and realizes greater vehicle stability at higher speeds. i MiEV (prototype) specifications Overall length 3450 mm Overall width 1520 mm Overall height 1600 mm Wheelbase 2550 mm Track(F/R) 1325 / 1325 mm Occupants 4 Vehicle weight 1080 kg Motor output 47kW Motor torque 180 N-m Battery system 330V lithium-ion Drive mode Rear wheel drive Tires 175/45R17



Mitsubishi Motors lineup at 2009 Geneva Motor Show



Model	No. on display	Remarks
i MiEV SPORT AIR	1	World premiere. Show model.
i MiEV	1	World premiere, prototype model.
Colt	4	3-door Ralliart, 3-door ClearTec, 5-door Colt, 5-door ClearTec. Built in Europe.
Lancer	1	"Galant Fortis" in Japan.
Lancer Evolution	1	"Lancer Evolution X" in Japan.
Lancer Sportback	1	"Galant Fortis Sportback" in Japan.
Lancer Sportback Ralliart	1	"Galant Fortis Sportback Ralliart" in Japan.
Grandis	1
Outlander	2
Pajero	1
L200	1	Double-cab pickup. Built in Thailand. "Triton" in Japan.
Total	15

Reference: www.mitsubishi-motors.com/