Lexus International today announced it has sold more than one million hybrid vehicles since the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle, the RX 400h SUV, went on sale in 2005.
A new NX 300h was delivered to a Lexus customer in Milan, Italy, by Alain Uyttenhoven, head of Lexus Europe, to commemorate the milestone.
“The hybrid drive system continues to be our core vehicle technology to help reduce CO2 emissions, while providing a pleasurable driving experience,” Lexus International President Tokuo Fukuichi said.
“We have set ambitious environmental goals for 2050, and hybrid popularity worldwide is extremely important if we are to achieve those goals.
“Today, Lexus manufactures ten hybrid models, with more on the way. I’m pleased over 1 million customers worldwide have put their faith into our hybrid line-up.”
Lexus expanded its hybrid line-up following the debut of the RX 400h in 2005, beginning with the launch of the first luxury hybrid sedan, the GS 450h, in 2006.
In 2007 the brand unveiled the most powerful luxury hybrid sedan, the LS 600h, followed by the HS 250h in 2009 and the first luxury hybrid compact hatch, the CT 200h, in 2011.
The ES 300h sedan launched in 2012, ahead of the IS 300h and GS 300h in 2013 and the first hybrid luxury crossover SUV, the NX 300h, in 2014.
Lexus offers the widest line-up of hybrid vehicles in the luxury market.
Earlier this year Lexus premiered its latest hybrid model, the LC 500h coupe, which features a new generation performance hybrid technology known as the Multi Stage Hybrid System (MSHS).
The MSHS expands further hybrid advantages by delivering more power, greater acceleration and traction and higher efficiency.
LC 500h will launch globally and in Australia next year.
Lexus Australia has sold 17,173 hybrid models since 2006, when it first introduced the GS 450h sedan and RX 400h SUV to the local market.
Its hybrid line-up currently comprises eight models: CT 200h, IS 300h, ES 300h, NX 300h, GS 300h, GS 450h, RX 450h and LS 600h.
Lexus Australia chief executive Peter McGregor said the sales milestone reflected the numerous advantages of the Lexus hybrid system.
“We are thrilled so many of our valued guests both worldwide and here in Australia have recognised the vast benefits of the Lexus hybrid powertrain, with its combination of responsive performance, convenience, refinement, efficiency and of course its benefit to the environment,” Mr McGregor said.
As of the end of March, Lexus had sold approximately 1,000,600 hybrid vehicles in 11 years.
Tags: 2015-Lexus-NX-300h
