I wouldn't be so hard on the Lexus RX400h.
We looked at one, but needed 7 seats.
It is only the first generation of such vehicles, and has advantages not mentioned here.
I agree it isn't green from a manufacturing point of view, but in other aspects it is very clever.
At speeds of less the 30mph, it can run on batteries alone. Most 30mph zones are in residential areas. This makes the air around much cleaner for people to live in.
Energy during braking is normally lost to heat. Braking also releases brake dust.
The hybrid uses some of this lost energy to recharge the batteries.
Engines have a sweet spot when it comes to fuel efficiency. The 400h waits until this spot is reached, then tops up the batteries.
With normal driving, it will return 30+ MPG around town which is very good for a car of this type.
It will also do this on a motorway run, which isn't so amazing. But since it will then just be running on the petrol engine, this is to be expected.
The unique bit is the performance on offer. 0-60 in 7 seconds! (0-62 approx 7.6)
I know performance is a dirty word these days, but in real world driving it is sometimes needed. (and really nice!)
Not many other SUVs can match that, and return 30+ mpg.
The RX400h isn't a true 4x4, but can power the rear wheels via the electric motors.
So while not ideal in the mud, it's better than nothing.
It will tow up to 2 tons(check kerb weight etc), but i wouldn't say it is the best tow car around.
The reports i have read, say the suspension is a little on the "comfort" side, ie soft.
People buy Lexus to be wafted along, so this is to be expected.
As bettery technology advances, it would get better and greener. But for the time being, at least it's trying!
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**Paul and Amanda**
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Topic: environmentally friendly towcars
