03.03.10 LEXUS UNVEILS 'CT 200h' AT 2010 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW
Wednesday, 03 March 2010
LEXUS UNVEILS 'CT 200h' AT 2010 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW
Lexus has unveiled the five-door hybrid “CT200h” – the first Lexus vehicle in the premium-compact segment – at the 80th Geneva International Motor Show.
The CT200h was designed to open the way for a new Lexus era by combining the dynamism of sporty driving performance and styling with outstanding environmental performance, resulting in an experience that captivates driver and passenger alike.
A newly developed high-rigidity body and strong yet flexible suspension, together with Lexus Hybrid Drive, are the basis for exhilarating handling performance and the pursuit of top-of-its-class environmental performance.
The vehicle has precise response thanks to its easily selectable Sport, Eco and other driving modes, while a sophisticated cockpit offers clear visibility and operability that enhances driving pleasure.
Vehicle Outline
The newly developed high-rigidity body, along with enhanced suspension and a package with a low centre of gravity, ensures superior handling and cruising stability as well as a comfortable ride. Also, carefully positioned, low-hip-point seats and other features augment driving pleasure.
The 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle combustion engine is combined with an electric motor to create a hybrid system optimised for the CT200h.
The CT200h offers the standard driving mode that balances power with fuel efficiency, as well as different driving modes that modify control of the hybrid system, vehicle stability control and electric power steering, thus transforming both the driving style and the cabin mood.
• Sport Mode offers direct response and quick acceleration, while Eco Mode combines emphasised fuel efficiency with comfortable driving
• Gauge illumination turns red in Sport Mode and blue in Eco Mode; tachometer as well as Hybrid System Indicator light up in Eco Mode
• Vehicle also equipped with EV (electric vehicle) mode for quiet operation that uses motor only.
A refined exterior design based on the Lexus L-finesse design philosophy evokes the dynamic driving performance of the vehicle.
• Wheels with wide-tread, low-profile tyres create striking, road-hugging impression
• Forward-positioned quarter pillars express the cabin’s forward motion and compactness, while the long roof extending to rear of vehicle contributes to aerodynamic performance and rear-seat comfort
• Lexus’ unique “arrowhead” profile expresses depth and air-flow, while lowered grille emphasises resoluteness.
The sophisticated cockpit is designed to lessen the need for physical movement and enhance the driver’s line of vision, and features two distinct zones: an information-filled Display Zone and a function-control Operation Zone. The Operation Zone controls, including shift knob and Remote Touch, are within easy reach of the driver to enhance operability and create a sporty driving space.
CT200h Main Specifications (European-market version)
Length/width/height: 4,320 mm/1,765 mm/1,430 mm
Wheelbase: 2,600 mm
Tracks: front, rear: 1,525 mm (17-inch wheels)
Engine: 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine
Battery: Nickel-metal hydride
Transmission: Electric continuously variable transmission
Powertrain: Front engine, front-wheel drive
Suspension: Front - MacPherson struts; Rear - Double wishbone