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Lexus files to copyright LC 500 nameplates [UPDATE]

UPDATE: Reached for comment, Lexus told Autoblog that it "cannot offer comment on the potential naming of a production version of the LF-LC concept" and pointed out that automakers trademark nameplates as a matter of course. Some automakers already slap a production-ready name on their concepts, but not Lexus. The Japanese automaker typically labels its show cars with the letters LF-XX. So when we heard that Toyota had green-lit the LF-LC concept for production, we naturally started wondering what name the production version would carry. But if the latest intel is any indication, we can stop wondering. According to Lexus Enthusiast, the automaker has filed to trademark the names LC 500 and LC 500h in a variety of markets – including the United States, Canada and Australia. The application tells us a number of things: first of all, that the LF-LC will retain that second set of letters along the road to production (like the NX but unlike other recent Lexus concepts). And secondly, it indicates what engines we can expect to find under the hood. The 500 designation would seem to suggest that the base version of Lexus' upcoming halo sports car will pack the 5.0-liter V8 from the RC F. The bigger question mark is over the hybrid version. Current gasoline-electric models in the company's lineup include the RX 450h (based on a 3.5-liter V6) and the LS 600h (with a 5.0-liter V8). For the LC 500h, Lexus could be planning a more potent electric motor to mate to the 3.5L V6, or planning a new powertrain altogether.

What's in a trademark? Sometimes, the next iconic car name

The United States Patent and Trademark Office is a treasure trove for auto enthusiasts, especially those who double as conspiracy theorists.
Why has Toyota applied to trademark "Supra," the name of one of its legendary sports cars, even though it hasn't sold one in the United States in 16 years? Why would General Motors continue to register "Chevelle" long after one of the most famous American muscle cars hit the end of the road? And what could Chrysler possibly do with the rights to "313," the area code for Detroit?

2018 Lexus LC 500h is a wonderful mechanical mishmash

Lexus is following up on the Detroit debut of the LC 500 with a Geneva debut for a new hybrid model that, yes, has a four-speed automatic. We're still getting used to the idea, too. But as we've explained before, even with the old-school gearbox there's some real cutting edge stuff going on here. While the LC hybrid will have a four-speed auto, it will work in conjunction with an eCVT, a Lexus hybrid system, and possibly black magic. It's all very complicated – you can get particulars here – but it's best to think of the LC 500h's transmissions not as a CVT and a four-speed auto, but as a sort of ten-speed hybrid of the two, since both systems are always engaged. The hybrid system is much more familiar. There's a 3.5-liter V6, a battery pack, and two electric motors. Total system output is 354 ponies and Lexus claims the sprint to 60 mph will be done in under five seconds. For the record, the gas-only LC is projected to do the deed in around 4.5 seconds, so the hybrid shouldn't be a dramatic compromise in terms of performance. Of course, stats only tell so much. The ultimate question for the LC 500h is how its wild mix of transmissions, batteries, motors, and an engine will behave on the road. We don't have an answer for that yet, but we do have live images of the new hybridized Lexus at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Check them out. Related Video: Lexus at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show - World Premiere of the LC 500h luxury coupe with next-generation Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System - European Premiere of the LF-FC concept Lexus will unveil the hybrid version of its all-new LC luxury coupe at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. The LC 500h is equipped with Lexus' next generation hybrid powertrain, the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, providing enhanced driving pleasure, more performance, and greater efficiency. The LC was first revealed at the 2016 North America International Auto Show. Its styling, performance and craftsmanship position the vehicle as Lexus' flagship coupe. The LC also utilizes Lexus' new architecture that promises enhanced dynamic capability. Inspired by the acclaimed LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC represents a shift in Lexus' engineering processes and design ideologies, and marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand.