The Lexus RX 450h is the same version as the RX 350 but instead of simply a fuel powered engine it is a hybrid. The engine inside is a 3.5 litre V6 which has 183kW of power at 6000rpm and puts out 245 hp. The front electric motor has 123kW and gives out 167 hp.The total output is 295 hp. Also the vehicle has a 50kW electric motor to power the rear wheels.
The RX 450h never needs to be plugged in to recharge the battery. The batteries get charged through regenerative braking on all of the wheels. The battery inside is a 288 volt Nickel Metal Hydride.
Like most hybrid cars, the Lexus can be driven in different modes. ECO mode will automatically adjust the air conditioning and also the responsiveness of the accelerator which will improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. In Ev mode the vehicle can travel up to 2km at low speeds just on electric power alone. In this mode the vehicle uses no fuel and emits no CO2.
One of the features of the Lexus is the adaptive front lighting system. When you approach the vehicle when it is dark, a light will be illuminated underneath each exterior mirror and then when you step inside a choreographed lighting sequence will guide you inside.
There is also an enhanced climate control. This includes a humidity sensor that helps to control the inside temperature.
The Sports Luxury model also has a few more features like the head-up display. This displays certain key information on the windscreen above the instrument panel. This can show your current speed, the satellite navigation directions and also the audio settings. This allows you to continue along without having to take your eyes off the road. You can also view different information by using the steering wheel controls. This take show you other information such as the gear you are currently in, the fuel consumption and other key data.
Other features of the Sports Luxury model is the 15 speaker surround sound system, heated and ventilated front seats and there is also three memory settings which allow for different preferred seat positions.
One other feature is the hands free Smart Key Card. As you approach the vehicle, a proximity sensor detects the coded Smart Key Card and unlocks the door for you. This also activates the illuminated entry sequence. You can also unlock and lock the doors while your foot is on the brake pedal. You also get a normal key for emergency use.
If car rental companies in major cities, like Sydney do start to move their fleets to vehicles which are a hybrid or all electric like the then this would reduce their carbon footprint as well as helping to reduce their maintenance costs for their fleets and the need to refuel their vehicles. This would also reduce the cost for car rental in Sydney.