TMG’s Lexus TS-650 Concept Revealed Ahead Of Essen Debut

Toyota Motorsport Gmbh (TMG) has revealed more of its Lexus LS-based TS-650 Concept ahead of its public debut at the Essen Motor Show next week.

Curiously, the concept is based on the pre-facelift 2012 LS model, and all Lexus badges have been replaced by the German TMG logo - raising questions on the project's official backing from Lexus headquarters.

On the surface, the TS-650 appears to be an answer to the likes of Mercedes-Benz’ S 63 AMG, but the TS-650’s specs read more like a Black Series model - a venture seemingly beyond even the niche-filling Mercedes.

Under the bonnet sits a 478kW/710Nm  twin-turbocharged version of the IS F’s 5.0 litre V8, with internal strengthening to permit a 9000rpm redline.

Given the existing flagship Ls 600h’s 326kW petrol-electric drivetrain generates 5.5 second 0-100km/h acceleration, the TS-650 could see this figure drop below 5 seconds.

The TS-650’s power is sent to the wheels via Lexus’ eight-speed automatic transmission, and all modifications are intended to be track-ready, yet road-legal.