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NEWS
Lexus expands hybrid attack
Eight global model lines will feature hybrid drivetrains by 2014 promises global product bossJapanese luxury brand Lexus has confirmed it will feature hybrid powertrains in eight global model lines by 2014.
The figures were confirmed exclusively to motoring.com.au by the company’s product & market planning general manager Andrew Kirby during an interview on the sidelines of last week’s Australian reveal of the updated LS luxury saloon. It is believed to be the first time Lexus has been specific about its hybrid roll-out since parent Toyota confirmed at a conference in Japan in September that it would introduce 21 new hybrid models by the end of 2015.
“We are going to increase the number of product ranges with hybrid,” Mr Kirby said. “Obviously, hybrid is an important area for us.
“By 2014 we will have eight model ranges with hybrid drivetrains. I am giving you a global number and I think that shows a significant commitment to hybrid.”
Currently, the CT small car (pictured), GS premium sedan, LS saloon and RX SUV offer hybrid power. Lexus also sells the Prius-based HS in some markets, although that may not be counted in the eight. The new generation (Camry-based) ES sedan offers a 300h petrol-electric version, while next year’s IS compact sports sedan is tipped to have a turbocharged hybrid variant.
The forthcoming IS-based coupe, previewed by the Paris LF-CC show car and expected to be dubbed ‘RC’ in production will be another model on the list, as could the much touted compact SUV, for which Lexus has registered the ‘NX’ badge, if it makes production in Mr Kirby’s timeframe.
The spectacular LF-LC, which is variously dubbed as an SC coupe replacement and Porsche 911 rival, will definitely not be seen in production before mid-decade.
Not only will Lexus expand the model lines in its range offering hybrid power, it will also expand the number of hybrid derivatives within each line-up.
Broadly speaking, there is a plan to introduce more economy-focussed versions to go alongside the performance models offered at the moment, in the same way the European marques have high and low-power diesels, and turbo-petrol engines of the same capacity with different outputs. Lexus underlined its commitment to hybrid technology when it pulled out of the diesel market in Europe.
Toyota and Lexus reached 1 million hybrid sales in 2012 after 10 months and Toyota forecasts that level will be maintained as it expands its hybrid line-up. Hybrid accounts for one third of Lexus Australia sales, a figure that could rise to 50 per cent with the release of the new IS.
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Written byBruce Newton
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