Toyota backs hybrids with LS600

Stupid.
Hybrids are a bridge to electric vehicle for day to day human transportation.
And the future is not in SUV's. Why are their more hybrid SUV models or performance hybrids like the Accord available than of hybrid economy passanger cars? Stupid, stupid, stupid.

And why do consumers buy them?

 

Doesn't a clunky, overpriced, heavy on resources luxury car kind of defeat the purpose of the hybrid principle?





<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Tideland Prius @ May 17 2007, 12:19 PM) [snapback]444262[/snapback]</div>

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(chplnj @ May 17 2007, 09:42 PM) [snapback]444575[/snapback]</div>

Not sure what you mean? If it saves on gas and reduces emissions I thought that was the hybrid principle.....

 

I think the new Lexus LS600hL hybrid is gorgeous! The quality of workmanship and technical features can't be beat, and the design is stunning. Fuel consumption is disappointing, but if I had the money I would buy one to park in my living room and sit in it every now and then and look how nice it is while driving my bike, EV, or Prius when I need to go somewhere. The LS600hL is a work of art...

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Darwood @ May 17 2007, 11:13 AM) [snapback]444307[/snapback]</div>

Because they "need" them. Or at least think they do. And in terms of gas saving, reducing consumption of large vehicles does more than in small vehicles. As an example, doubling the mileage of a vehicle that gets 10 mpg to 20 mpg saves 5000 gallons in 100,000 miles.

Doubling the mileage of a car getting 25 mpg to 50 mpg saves only 2000 gallons (admittedly still not trivial) in 100,000 miles.

Of course, most of us would prefer to see vehicles getting only 10 mpg replaced with those getting at least 50 mpg for a savings of 8000 gallons in 100,000 miles.

In the case of the hybrid Accord however, they didn't significantly increase fuel economy, but power. To me that's a waste, but at least the people that want more power don't have to go out and buy a more powerful gas guzzler.


Dave M.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(toyotablackbox @ May 18 2007, 01:16 PM) [snapback]444971[/snapback]</div>

I pre-ordered one last year to replace my '02 LS430. I am very taken by it but I do not like the initial price - i was told it was going to be lower. in any event my 50th b-day occurs next year and i am anticipating a mid-life crisis only a car can cure. the other safety technology in the LS600h is remarkable.

all this being said, my Toyota/Lexus salesman tells me the Supra is going to be re-introduced and it will be a 4 wheel drive hyrbid -- and they are going to introduce another sports car next year --- choices/choices - aint capitalism great.