Lexus International says it has now sold more than 1 million hybrid vehicles since the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle, the RX 400h, went on sale in April 2005. With 10 models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury segment hybrid leader much to the chagrin of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz executives. To note passing the milestone, a new NX 300h was delivered to a Lexus customer in Milan, Italy.
“This is my first Lexus. I chose this brand because I really value it. When I saw the new Lexus NX 300h, I was immediately captured by its design, and of course the hybrid technology made me enthusiastic. I was surprised to hear that I was the buyer of the 1 millionth Lexus hybrid, and I am honored to celebrate this important milestone with Lexus!” said Aldo Pirronello, the new NX 300h owner. (Center in photo with plaque.)
Following the debut of the RX 400h, the brand relentlessly expanded its hybrid line-up by launching the first luxury hybrid sedan, the GS 450h in 2006, and in 2007 the most powerful luxury hybrid sedan, LS 600h. In 2009, the HS 250h, followed by the first luxury hybrid compact, the CT 200h, in 2011. ES 300h was launched in 2012, then IS 300h and GS 300h in 2013, and the first luxury mid-sized crossover, the NX 300h, in 2014. The first luxury hybrid sports coupe, the RC 300h, was launched globally at the end of 2015.
Earlier this year, Lexus premiered its latest hybrid model, the LC 500h, which features a new generation performance hybrid technology called Multi Stage Hybrid System (MSHS). The MSHS expands further hybrid advantages by delivering more power, greater acceleration and traction and higher efficiency. The LC 500h will be available for sale in the spring of 2017.
