Just last week at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, Lexus unveiled the LS 500 flagship sedan powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine which produces 415 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. Surprisingly, the automaker didn’t mention anything about the Lexus LS hybrid version, which will replace the current LS 600h. However, we just got to know through the official LS interior photoshoot that the hybrid variant is in fact coming very soon.
The automaker released the interior photos of the new LS and in one of the shots, the “EV MODE” switch can be easily spotted near the gear shift. The same EV button is also present in other Toyota and Lexus models including the new Prius.
The Lexus LS hybrid images were removed from the website and rumors surfaced that it will carry a hydrogen powered engine paired to electric motors. Drive.com asked Lexus LS chief engineer Toshio Asahi if any such drivetrain will debut in the new Lexus LS and he answered that they in fact are working on it and more information will be disclosed in the near future.
It should be noted that the rivals of Lexus including Mercedes and BMW are already offering plug-in EVs.