UX 250h: Powered by a fourth-generation Lexus self-charging hybrid 07.01.2019: Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid intelligently combines petrol and electric power The new UX 250h can be driven in Electric Vehicle mode for up to 50% of the time EURO 6d compliant with lowest CO2 in class, near-zero NOX and particles

    Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid intelligently combines petrol and electric power


    The new UX 250h can be driven in Electric Vehicle mode for up to 50% of the time


    EURO 6d compliant with lowest CO2 in class, near-zero NOX and particles


    The UX 250h never needs plugging in and offers low running costs




Once drivers get behind the wheel of the new UX 250h they will quickly realise that this isn’t just ‘another crossover’. Powered by a fourth-generation Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid, it’s very responsive to drive, but like all Lexus hybrids, offers the best fuel efficiency and lowest emissions in class Free from plugs or range issues. In real-life city driving, the UX 250h can use electric power for a significant part of every journey – up to 50%, depending on driving conditions.





LEXUS SELF-CHARGING HYBRID


Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid on the UX 250h orchestrates a seamless blend of power from a highly efficient 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and powerful electric motor(s). Available with front-wheel drive or E-FOUR all-wheel-drive, the system has a compact new transaxle and Power Control Unit.



A newly developed nickel metal-hydride battery is located below the rear seat, minimising intrusion in the load space and contributing to the UX’s low centre-of-gravity. Importantly, Lexus engineers focused not just on outstanding fuel economy and low emissions, but also on a high level of driving appeal.




ELECTRIC VEHICLE MODE


When cruising or accelerating slightly, the front electric motor (and extra rear electric motor on all-wheel-drive models) is able to propel the car with electric power supplied by the hybrid battery. At this point the vehicle is almost silent, uses no petrol and produces zero emissions.




DYNAMIC YET SMOOTH


At higher speeds, the ultra-smooth Atkinson Cycle petrol engine cuts in quietly while still receiving assistance from the electric motor(s) when required. Through the near perfect distribution of these two power sources, the UX 250h provides superior driving enjoyment, together with low fuel consumption and emissions.




RAPID ACCELERATION


At full acceleration, the power of the electric motor(s) instantaneously supplements the 2.0-litre petrol engine. Together they deliver a potent surge of torque, providing linear acceleration precisely when needed.




NO NEED TO PLUG-IN


On braking, or when the driver’s foot is taken off the accelerator, regenerative braking harnesses kinetic energy to generate electricity which, together with electric power produced during normal driving conditions, is stored in the hybrid battery, meaning the UX 250h never needs to be plugged in.




LEADERS IN HYBRID TECHNOLOGY


Like all major technological breakthroughs, Lexus’ lead in hybrid technology did not happen overnight. As part of a long-term drivetrain strategy, it developed the first hybrids back in the mid-1990s. Since Lexus launched the world’s first premium hybrid in 2005, the RX 400h crossover, Lexus has sold over 1.4 million Self-Charging Hybrids. Today nine different hybrid models are offered in Europe, from the LC 500h and LS 500h Multi-Stage Hybrids, right through to the super-efficient CT 200h luxury compact.




LOW COST OF OWNERSHIP


As well as being fun to drive, the UX 250h offers low cost of ownership and high residual value. This is due primarily to Lexus’ industry-leading experience in engineering Self-Charging Hybrids, batteries which last as long as the car itself, and the inherently low wear and tear of the Lexus system.




REDUCED SERVICING COSTS


The UX 250h has been designed without a clutch, while the starter motor and alternator are integral to the hybrid system and require no servicing or replacement over the life of the vehicle. The conventional timing belt has also been replaced by a maintenance-free timing chain. With no need to service or replace these parts, UX 250h owners can realise a saving of around €1,500 over a 5 year ownership period.





HYBRID BATTERY LIFE = CAR LIFE


With a proven reliability record over some 60 billion kilometres of driving worldwide, a Lexus hybrid battery is designed to last the entire life of the car. Rigorously engineered for performance and durability, it is covered by a 5 year, 100,000 km warranty.




LOWER BRAKE AND TYRE WEAR


Thanks to the Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid’s regenerative braking system, which delivers the first half of all braking force, both pad and disc wear are significantly reduced. Over the course of 90,000 km, a Lexus hybrid will usually require no disc replacement and just one set of replacement brake pads. Additionally, the higher tyre pressure of hybrid vehicles helps to decrease shoulder wear on tyres, while linear power delivery and the car’s balanced weight distribution reduce tyre wear even further.



In the next UX news post we investigate how Lexus engineers developed a new hybrid transaxle, electric motor cooling system, compact Power Control Unit, hybrid battery, E-FOUR AWD system and ultra-light materials for the new UX 250h.





 

- Lexus also photos