Lexus Canada announces CT 200h for Canadian market (With Video)

Lexus Canada announced that their new hybrid compact hatch, the CT 200h, will be available to Canadian consumers. The all new CT 200h will make its North American debut at the New York Auto Show, which runs from March 31st through April 11.

More information and a video after the jump.

The CT 200h will go on sale in early 2011 and join the Lexus HS 250h as the second dedicated hybrid in the Lexus lineup. The design is based on the LH-CH concept vehicle, shown at this year's Canadian International Auto Show. According to Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus, the new CT 200h is designed to appeal to a younger audience that is environmentally minded.

The CT 200h will be powered by a 1.8 liter Atkinson cycle inline four cylinder gasoline engine, with variable valve timing and Lexus Hybrid Drive. Lexus stated the following about the hybrid technology in the CT 200h, “The Lexus Hybrid Drive technology features two motor generators. Each performs specific functions and can operate as both a motor and generator. The engine-driven generator can charge the battery pack or provide additional power to the drive motor as needed. The drive motor is driven by electrical power from the hybrid battery pack or generator and provides motive force for the front wheels.”

The battery pack on the CT 200h will be a Nickel-Metal Hydride.

The only transmission available is an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). Four driving modes (Normal, Eco, Sport and EV) are standard on the CT 200h.

Driving aid technology is also available on the CT 200h. These are the following:

• Traction control (TRAC)
• Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS)
• VSC (Vehicle Stability Control
• Pre-Collision System (PCS)

The Pre-Collision System (PCS) works by emitting radar waves, measuring steering wheel angle, vehicle speed, and brake applications to determine if a front end collision is unavoidable. The PCS will ready the brakes and apply seat belt tensioners to prepare for a collision. Feedback to the driver consists of an audible and visual warning. Eight airbags are standard.

Pricing will be released closer to launch. To view the Lexus Canada press release click the Source link.

[Source:Toyota Canada Media]

Comments

[themarty]

So the electricity to charge the batteries comes from were again? How is this green? Maybe we should waste more land on farming inedible corn for methanol manufacture whilst millions go starving each day. Nice one Lexus you've saved the world!

[BernardP]

Don't you understand? There is nothing greener than using a small gasoline engine to lug around a heavy battery ;-)

What matters is the way driving this thing makes you feel.