Lexus LS Hybrid: 1st Generation News & Information

I really love the look of the new TFT instrument panel in the 2010 Lexus LS 600hL:

There was also these images from yesterday’s L-Select LS 600hL photo gallery from Japan:

The IP’s central circle theme is a much cleaner approach than the traditional two dial display, and brings to mind the LFA’s design:

Cut the LFA display in half, and you’re left with the older, wiser LS 600hL—what a beautifully subtle shared design cue.

Photos of the L-Select customization program offered by Lexus Japan have been hard to come by—that is, until I was sent the link to this absolutely massive LS 600hL gallery with one of the unique L-Select trims. Here’s just a small selection:

Just look at these detail shots:

I’m not sold on the crosshatch wood, but that diamond headliner and the contrast stitching are both a 10/10—and as a complete package, it’s unbelievable. Love the level of customization. Beautifully done.

(Be sure to visit the Car Watch website for more than 100 photos of the JDM LS 600hL—absolutely exceptional.)

(Thanks Holger!)

There’s a new 2010 Lexus LS 600h commercial from Lexus Japan:

This LS features an L-Select bright-red & black interior—don’t know if that would be my first pick with a white exterior.

(On a side note: Why do all the press photos & video have to feature the same color car? I certainly wouldn’t mind seeing the new LSh in something other than white.)

This video gives some detail on the new L-Select customization program currently offered with the Lexus LS in Japan (warning: the accompanying music is unique):

If switching internal LS components is as easy as it’s displayed in this video, I don’t see any reason why L-Select couldn’t make it’s way to other markets. More likely, this is a pilot program to determine consumer interest and decisions will be made based on its success in Japan.

(Thanks Roberto!)

The new L-Select Lexus customization program has launched in Japan. This program, which is currently limited to the LS, makes it possible to pick and choose your leather, wood trim, even your roof material.

Here’s a small sampling of the possible interior combinations:

These are some serious interior options, I’m all over that IS-F inspired red/black interior. The laser-cut wood is hard to judge in photos, but it might be a nice look depending on the pattern.

In the short term, L-Select will be limited to the Japanese market, but this level of customization is going to be a central element as the automakers look to upgrade the luxury aspects of their vehicles.

For a full table of options, you can refer to the Lexus Japan press release (translated).

[Via: Club Lexus]

For 2010, the Lexus LS will be sporting an additional layer of clear coat paint that has the ability to heal itself:

Unlike a conventional clear coat, TMC’s newly developed coat is not easily damaged and can even restore* itself even if it is deformed.  Moreover, it requires no special maintenance, prevents luster degradation caused by surface scratches and helps to prolong new-car color and gloss.

The new coat features an ingredient that encourages closer molecular bonding, resulting in a denser structure than conventionally possible.  This gives the coat flexibility and elasticity, making it less prone to damage and more resistant to light and acid, and giving it the ability to self-restore after deformation.

This is great news, as this will likely counteract Lexus’ traditionally soft paint, keeping cars looking great for longer. Looking forward to seeing this in action.

[Source: Lexus Japan]