Lexus Adds a Touch of Green to the Monaco Royal Wedding

WATERTOWN, MASS. (05/18/2011)(readMedia)-- When it comes to royal wedding transport, Prince Albert II of Monaco's choice of a Lexus LS 600h L hybrid stands in stark contrast to the 1977 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI used in Prince William's ceremony. On July 2, Lexus' flagship luxury car will be the first hybrid used in a European royal wedding, a nod to Prince Albert II's dedication to green technology.

Transporting Prince Albert II and his bride Charlene Wittstock on such an auspicious day is a serious task, and the LS 600h L is a serious vehicle. Reaching nearly 17 feet in length, the sedan is a stretched version of the standard LS 600h, which means a further five inches of legroom for the royal passengers.

"A royal wedding is a special occasion that calls for a special car, but it's also a day to make a statement," said Vincent Liuzzi, general manager of Lexus of Watertown, a Greater Boston Lexus dealership. "Prince Albert II's choice is an unorthodox one, but it shows his dedication to bucking old inefficient trends and moving on to new greener practices. It's a feat that can only be pulled off by a model like the LS 600h L, because it's a top-tier luxury vehicle that won't look out of place during the festivities."

Powered by a five-liter V8 engine and an electric motor that combine to produce 438 horsepower, the LS 600h L is quick enough to whisk the newlyweds away before the rice has fallen back to earth. Meanwhile, the hybrid powertrain returns 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Available Dynamic Radar Cruise Control enables the LS 600h L to maintain a pre-set trailing distance from the vehicle in front, which would make the procession afterward a simple affair.

Features that the royal couple can enjoy are power-closing doors, optional massaging rear seats and an available foldaway wood-trimmed table that will prove useful for champagne glasses. For added sun protection and privacy, motorized sunshades for the rear windows come standard on the Lexus LS 600h L. While the vehicle's opulent interior and advanced technology earn it a princely price tag, Lexus dealers have a host of other hybrids for non-royals that provide luxurious green transport at a fraction of the price.

Those seeking frugal fun can get behind the wheel of a Lexus CT 200h, capable of returning 43 mpg in the city and 40 mpg highway with a base manufacturer's suggested retail price of $29,120. Part-time all-wheel drive is the party piece of the Lexus RX 450h SUV, but its all-weather traction still nets city/highway mileage of 32/28 mpg.

"It's fitting that the LS 600h was chosen by Prince Albert, because both Lexus and the prince are well known for their commitment to green technology," Liuzzi said. "There's a certain appeal to riding in the back of a vintage Rolls-Royce, but Lexus drivers don't tend to get hung up on the past. Now, especially in the automotive industry, is the time for forward-thinking innovation, and the LS 600h is the embodiment of that drive forward.

About Lexus of Watertown:

Lexus of Watertown is New England's #1 volume Lexus dealer and a recipient of multiple Elite of Lexus awards given annually to dealerships that showcase overall excellence. They have a huge selection of new and certified pre-owned Lexus models, in addition to an exemplary service department that keeps customers coming back. Easily accessible from MetroWest, the North Shore and the South Shore, Lexus of Watertown is just minutes off the Mass Pike between Route 128 and Route 93. For more information, visit them online at www.lexusofwatertown.com, call them at 888.227.9560, become their fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LexusWatertown, or stop by their showroom at 330 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA.