Toyota's venerable Crown executive car gets a new workup, complete with hybrid drive. It's the Crown HV concept, equipped with a version of Toyota's halo-inducing hybrid synergy drive system. It's a technology lovefest, with an LCD display Toyota calls, awesomely, the Finegraphic Meter. It also comes with something the big T calls a "motor speed reduction device." That's J-code for a luxury-oriented smooth acceleration, high fuel efficiency, low CO2 and other exhaust emissions and quietness. It's also a showcase of VDIM stability control with active steering. Expect to see it parked in front of the Imperial Palace inside a year.

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