Lexus tells us that pre-launch testing of the new CT 200h reveals that it is a leading low-emissions vehicle in the European market. It has beaten earlier internal projections.
With a similar CO2 output to much smaller vehicles, and clear leadership when it comes to NOx and Particulate Matter (PM ), the Lexus CT 200h delivers industry-leading low emission levels. Moreover, when compared to competitor vehicles of a similar size and power output, CT 200h demonstrates much lower emissions that are the equivalent of those of a Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion (87g/km CO2 ).
This apparent paradox of larger size but lower emissions is delivered through a combination of second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive and other intelligent energy saving technologies.
Lexus tells us that numerous additional energy saving measures have been developed to ensure the CT 200h delivers the best possible environmental performance.
These include:
- A humidity sensor with automatic air inlet mode control and pro-active seat heaters, ensuring more heat is retained within the engine’s core, enabling it to reach operating temperature and switch off earlier
- The comprehensive use of power saving LED lighting, which reduces energy consumption
by around 45 per cent when compared to halogen units
- A lightweight, energy-efficient digital audio system amplifier that consumes 50 per cent less
power than a conventional analogue system, and weighs 26 per cent less.
In addition, further helping reduce emissions levels, the 1.8litre petrol engine also features two full hybrid firsts.
During the 2010 Paris Motor Show, RTL (main French radio station ) and Auto Plus organised a poll in France. The Lexus CT200h took the lead in the green car category and despite heavy competition was crowned the overall winner.
The Lexus CT 200h will be commercially available in Ireland from November, with first deliveries to customers in early 2011. Prior to this, the Lexus CT 200h will appear in an Irish preview tour in early December.
