Next-Generation Lexus LS Hybrid Uncovered in Press Photo


Drive Australia (and eagle-eyed Lexus enthusiasts) discovered a secret message in one of last week’s LS 500 press photos — buried in one of the many interior shots is an EV Mode button:

Drive Australia takes it one step too far, suggesting this “gives rise to rumours that hydrogen would power an electric motor in the new LS” — the leap of logic from a EV mode button to a fuel cell powertrain is pure crazy. Instead, this image should indicate the arrival of the inevitable LS hybrid, most likely powered by the same V6 hybrid/virtual 10-speed transmission from the LC 500h.

(In fact, the LC coupe rolled out in a similar way in 2016– a Detroit debut of the gasoline LC 500, followed by a Geneva Motorshow reveal of the hybrid LC 500h in March.)

Lexus LS: Fourth Generation