Toyota Japan, 500 HP Hybrid Lexus in 2009

We got a taste of just how formidable Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system truly is when we tested the Lexus GS450H in our July 2006 issue. The basis for the GS450H's power comes from the 3.5-Liter V-6. The upcoming LS600h L builds on that by coupling Toyota's 5.0-Liter V-8 with electric motors. Now we hear that there could be a V-12 based hybrid sedan in the works called the L 650h. Reports of a Toyota V-12 have been circulating for months. Sources indicate that the future V-12 will be a 5.0-Liter, with power output around 400 bhp. Mated with two electric motors, the L 650h will likely produce about 500 bhp total, with all-wheel drive. The system will probably be mated to Toyota's next-generation CVT. The full-size sedan will be slightly larger than the LS, but may be built on the same basic platform as the company's current flagship. Still, there will plenty to distinguish the super Lexus from the LS, beginning with its exterior and interior styling. Because the car's main rivals will be Mercedes-Benz Maybach, Rolls-Royce, and Bentley, you can expect the price of the L 650h to be at least $150,00. if the car actually does make it to production, expect to see it around 2009. - Sam Mitani

If this ever happens, it will be one incredible Lux car from Japan. :clap:

So same hp as the LS600h then. The thing is, are they building a V12 so that they can run an atkinson cycle on it? It seems like it if the hp is the same as the LS600h. In other words, it'll be an efficient super luxury car instead of a power one like the GS450h and LS600h.

:eek::eek::D:D wow, i would love to drive that. is the ls460h going to be the extended ls600? cuz...

The full-size sedan will be slightly larger than the LS, but may be built on the same basic platform as the company's current flagship

So same hp as the LS600h then. The thing is, are they building a V12 so that they can run an atkinson cycle on it? It seems like it if the hp is the same as the LS600h. In other words, it'll be an efficient super luxury car instead of a power one like the GS450h and LS600h.

LS600h makes 430hp, this will make 500.

oh really? so just 50 more than the standard and more or less in line with the XJR.