When we last posted about
Lexus' long-awaited LF-A
supercar, which
debuted at the 2005
Detroit Auto Show (photo at right), it was to announce that the production version of the car would make its debut as the
pace car for the 2007 Japanese Grand Prix. Well, as we get ever-closer to production, the latest news on
Toyota's supercar is that it will be available in both gasoline and
hybrid versions.
Speculation has the hybrid version using the powertrain from the 600h sedan - a 5-liter V8 with a continuously-variable transmission and an electric motor/battery auxiliary power unit.
At the same time, the gasoline version will follow Toyota's Formula 1 cars in switching from the previously rumored V10 to a V8.
Related factoids for your consideration:
Speculation has the hybrid version using the powertrain from the 600h sedan - a 5-liter V8 with a continuously-variable transmission and an electric motor/battery auxiliary power unit.
At the same time, the gasoline version will follow Toyota's Formula 1 cars in switching from the previously rumored V10 to a V8.
Related factoids for your consideration:
- F1 rules for 2008 and beyond are considering regenerative braking systems (and longer-term, alternative powertrains)
- Lexus recently completed a 24 hour endurance race with a modified GS450h - the first hybrid car ever to compete in an FIA-sanctioned circuit race
