THE WORLD of hybrid motoring steps up a gear with the impending launch of Lexus’s first premium compact model using a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine combined with a powerful but compact electric motor.
Lexus is launching the CT 200h in the wake of the recent recall embarrassment concerning certain models made by its governing arm the Toyota corporation but is carrying on regardless and powering into the market dominated by the likes of the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3.
These are extremely hard acts to follow but Lexus has placed great faith in its hybrid system which can be used with selectable EV mode for emissions-free electric running in addition to ECO, NORMAL and SPORT driving modes.
It also features ECVT intelligent electronic continuously variable transmission and is expected to deliver class-leading CO2 emissions. Significantly the Lexus emits less nitrous oxide than equivalent diesel engines and almost no particulates.
Making its debut atthe Geneva MotorSshow prior to worldwide sales launch in late 2010, the CT 200h is the first full hybrid vehicle to be launched in the premium compact segment.
This is one of the most unshakeable market segments but the leading lights may do well to take a glance over their shoulder. Previously hybrid drive was for buyers of large and expensive vehicles or offered in a medium saloon body such as the Toyota Prius or Honda insight.
But the premium compact market is a daring move and I believe it will be a proving ground of whether or not hybrid drive will cut it with the young and well-off drivers who buy such cars.
Taking a long view, petrol electric hybrids are as good as it gets to economical low emission vehicles. The battle will really come with the advent of the hydrogen fuel cell.
Only time will tell which system will reign supreme.
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