Toyota hits the ten million hybrid milestone less than a year after hitting 9 million.

• Over Three Million Hybrids Sold in the U.S.

Toyota announced today that it has achieved more than 10 million cumulative units of hybrid vehicle (HV) sales, including plug-in hybrids, as of January 31. The latest milestone was achieved just nine months after total sales reached 9 million units at the end of April 2016.

Toyota Motor North America also saw its sales of hybrids and plug-in hybrids reach a cumulative total, exceeding three million units as of December 31, 2016.

“The Prius stands as an icon for sustainability and efficiency, and is a shining example of what you can achieve when you have the right idea to help solve a problem,” said Bob Carter, senior vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor North America. 

“Hybrids remain an important part of our lineup of vehicles, with over 246,000 units sold last year, and we have seen continued demand with the release of the RAV4 Hybrid variant of the popular compact SUV, accounting for nearly 13 percent of its total sales volume in 2016.”

Takeshi Uchiyamada, known as the father of the Prius and co-chairman of the Board of Directors at Toyota said, “When we launched Prius, no one even knew what a hybrid was, but, thanks to early adopters, hybrids have ridden a wave of success into the mainstream.” He added, “We are grateful to each and every one of our customers who have helped us achieve this important [global] milestone.”

As of January 31, Toyota estimates that the use of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles, as an alternative to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles of similar size and driving performance has resulted in approximately 77 million fewer tons of CO2 emissions and has saved approximately 7.66 million gallons of gasoline (29 million kiloliters).

More than a numerical milestone, the results demonstrate the staying power of hybrid powertrain technology, which has emerged as a mainstream solution to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants. Toyota values activities to help reduce the environmental effects of automobiles.  This achievement builds on the belief that widespread adoption of more environmentally-friendly vehicles can make a significant positive impact worldwide.

NAIAS - After the Flagship LS Launch, Lexus follows it up with the LC500 and LC 500h.

• LC 500 and LC 500h competitively priced under $100,000
• Distinctive LC emotional design
• LC 500 introduces new Direct Shift 10-speed automatic transmission
• LC 500h features new Multi Stage Hybrid System

Since the premiere of the LC 500 performance coupe last year, the most frequently asked question has been, “How much will it cost?”  Today that question was answered with news that both the 2018 LC 500 and its hybrid sibling, the LC 500h, will have Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) below $100,000 when they arrive at dealerships this May.

The all-new LC 500, powered by a normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, matched with the first direct shift 10-speed transmission to be featured in a luxury car, delivering 471 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft of torque, will have a starting MSRP of $92,000.  

The LC 500h, powered by 3.5-liter, V6 full hybrid powertrain, delivering a total system output of 354 horsepower, will have a starting MSRP of $96,510.  

  

The LC is a new flagship 2+2 performance coupe with avant-garde styling achieved through an unprecedented level of cooperation between design and engineering teams.  It is the first model on the new Lexus ‘Global Architecture – Luxury’ platform (GA-L), designed for new generations of front engine/rear-wheel drive Lexus models. As the first model to benefit from Lexus’ new Multi-Stage Hybrid system, the LC 500h delivers efficient environmental performance without sacrificing powerful driving performance.

The LC will be equipped with an array of standard features such as ultra-compact triple projector LED headlamps, arrowhead daytime running lights (DRL) combined with the triple-projector headlamps to create the next-generation Lexus lamp signature, three-dimensional rear lamp, Drive Mode Select, paddle shifters, next-generation Remote Touch Interface with touchpad, Lexus Premium Audio, and a color 10.3 inch TFT multi-information display. All LCs are equipped as standard with Lexus Safety System+, a package of active safety features including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Intelligent High Beam.

Optional equipment on the base LC 500 and LC 500h models includes 20” and 21” forged wheels, Mark Levinson audio system, Limited Slip Differential (LSD), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), Heads-Up Display (HUD) and Cold Area Package, which includes heated steering wheel and windshield de-icer. 

	LC 500	LC 500h
MSRP*	$92,000	$96,510
Touring Package - glass roof, 20” forged wheels, semi-aniline seats, heated and ventilated front seats, 2-way passenger seat lumbar, Mark Levinson audio system, BSM, and IPA.	$4,000	$2,790
Sport Package with Glass -20” forged wheels, Alcantara Sport seats to provide greater driver support and grip during dynamic driving, heated and ventilated front seats, 2-way passenger seat lumbar, Lexus Premium Audio, LSD, BSM and IPA.	$4,000	$2,400
Sport Package with Carbon - Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic composite roof, 21” forged wheels, Alcantara Sport seats, heated and ventilated front seats, 2-way passenger seat lumbar, LSD, BSM and IPA.  Mark Levinson audio system, HUD and Cold Area Package options are also available.	$7,000	$5,400
Performance Package with Carbon - Sport Package with Carbon features plus Active Rear Steering, Variable Gear Ratio System (VGRS), Active Rear Spoiler, Alcantara headliner, and Carbon Fiber scuff plates.	$10,000	$8,790

*MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $975.

LA SHOW - Is this an early April Fools, No, well, Lexus has given the world a SRIRACHA inspired IS Sedan, Mmmmm.

• Luxury automaker brings a playful spin to the stylish IS sedan by partnering with Huy Fong Foods’ signature sauce

To celebrate the launch of the 2017 Lexus IS sports sedan, Lexus created a bolder, spicier customized version of the original: the Lexus Sriracha IS. 

By joining forces with the authentic, beloved sauce made by Huy Fong Foods, Lexus turns up the heat with custom auto detailing, foodie finishes and an arsenal of Sriracha within easy reach for emergency situations. 

The specially modified vehicle will be on display at The Los Angeles Auto Show from Nov. 18–27 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. 

 

“The new Lexus IS is so hot, we decided to make it Sriracha hot, with all the custom details every Sriracha fan will appreciate,” said Brian Smith, Lexus vice president of marketing.

“I feel so humbled to see my Lexus and Sriracha friends’ love for my hot sauce,” said David Tran, CEO and founder of Huy Fong Foods. “The Lexus Sriracha IS is really the perfect mix for a ‘hot’ and ‘spicy car’ – just the way I like it.”

To bring the concept to life, Lexus commissioned the elite crew at West Coast Customs. Lexus also created a light-hearted video for fans to enjoy. “Sriracha In Everything” highlights the vehicle’s custom details and how Sriracha makes everything hotter. It can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/U2mtILDZRgI.

The special features of Sriracha IS:

Official Sriracha IS Paint Job 

Lexus experimented with a range of mixtures and methods—including adding Sriracha sauce to the paint itself—to create the Sriracha Red color, complete with flecks of chili-like flakes. The custom paint job was designed to mimic Sriracha sauce inside the bottle and topped with a clear coating.  

Sriracha-Injected Steering Wheel

A Sriracha-like liquid was cast in resin, then formed into a Lexus steering wheel, complete with a warning for “Hot Handling.”

Sriracha Temperature Settings

The settings for the seat warmers and AC/heating system have been upgraded to go from cool to Sriracha hot.

Sriracha Driving Mode

Sriracha mode tunes the powertrain for faster gear changes and more dynamic throttle mapping.

Handcrafted Seats

Plush leather seats are hand-embroidered with the Huy Fong rooster logo, the Sriracha IS logo and green accents.

Sriracha IS Badging

Custom badging on the side, rear and door wells identify this model, while illuminated callouts under the passenger and driver’s doors add a level of exclusivity.

Sriracha Green Accents

Touches of green are a signature element of official Huy Fong Foods products. Bottle-cap green details throughout the car include:

• Spindle grille outline
• Hand-painted calipers
• Interior cabin mood lighting
• Chrome side view mirror accents
• Hand-stitching on the seats

Fully Stocked Trunk 

The trunk is stocked with 43 bottles of Sriracha for emergency condiment situations.

Key Fob with Remote Emergency Sriracha Activation 

The key fob includes an emergency chili button that dispenses the sauce from a nozzle on the fob, so drivers are always prepared.

Sriracha IS Driving Accessories: 

Driving Jacket

A hot car deserves a hot driving jacket. For this collaboration, Lexus created two one-of-a-kind jackets that feature hand-embroidered images of the Sriracha IS and custom Sriracha IS patches to commemorate this sizzling venture. 

Driving Mitts

Some cars require driving gloves. The handling on the Sriracha IS is so hot, custom oven mitts are necessary.

Beijing see's the wraps come off a new look Lexus IS sedan, mainly new bumpers give this a muscular look.

A daring new styling direction, exciting performance and innovative technology defined the completely new Lexus IS that was introduced in 2013. Since then, sales of the luxury brand’s entry-level sedan have surpassed expectations, outselling the previous-generation model, which was very popular in its own right. 

At the Beijing Auto Show today, Lexus has taken the covers off the new IS, armed with a fresh new look and a number of important changes.

Because the original styling of the current IS has proved so popular, Lexus has kept the essence of car’s exterior appearance intact; however, the entire front fascia of the new model has undergone a transformation, highlighted by new headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and an evolution of Lexus’ spindle grille. 

The bumpers, with incorporated air intakes, flow dynamically from the fenders, giving the new front end a high level of aggressiveness. 

The new grille folds back at a higher point, changing its top and bottom proportions that enhance its sporty feel with a visually lower center of gravity, while blending effortlessly into the reshaped hood. The sleeker profile of the IS, together with the enhanced character line that runs down the side of the car, makes the new IS seem as if it’s in constant motion even when sitting still. 

The F SPORT’s grille features an exclusive 3-dimentional F-mesh pattern, with jet-black metallic coating that incorporates functional brake ducts. These brake ducts provide a sense of continuity with the side garnishes that enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance. Adding to the IS’s dynamic flair are standard 10-spoke 17-in. wheels that boast new designs with bright machine finishes. 

Changes to the rear are highlighted by more pronounced “L”-shaped LED light guides that are now triple layered within the taillight housing and new rectangular chrome exhaust tips that accentuate the car’s sporting nature. Also, two new paint schemes—Deep Blue Mica and Graphite Black Glass Flake—have been added to the IS’s exterior color palate.

In keeping with the same theme as the exterior, thoughtful improvements have been incorporated into the new IS’s cabin. The first thing that’s sure to catch your eye is the multimedia display screen that has grown from 7 inches to 10.3 inches. The new high-resolution monitor offers a larger and clearer image of the various functions of Lexus’ innovative multimedia system. 

Also, “Enter” buttons have been added to the sides of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) on the center console, making the system easier to use. On the center dash the audio and ventilation-control panel has been refined to fit completely within the knee bolsters, with a new hairline-finish surface that provides both a high-quality feel and improved appearance. 

New stitching on top of the meter hood enhances the sporty feel of the IS cockpit, as do the refined speedometer and tachometer. 

For interior colors, Moonstone and Ivory have been replaced by Chateau, a new light shade that blends the elegance of Ivory with a more modern light-gray hue. Other changes to the new IS include new cup holders, a new larger leather-wrapped palm rest with stitching for the RTI and new markings on the in-dash analogue clock.

The new IS model lineup will remain unchanged with three engine offerings. The rear-wheel-drive IS 200t will be powered by the recently-added 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-4 with intercooler, which comes mated to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. 

This engine, first introduced on the NX crossover vehicle, features a number of innovative technologies including Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) that allows the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson cycles by varying the intake-valve opening angles, and the D-4ST direct injection system. 

It combines a high pressure fuel system for injection directly into the cylinders with a low pressure system for injection into the ports. Power is rated at 180kW at 5,800rpm or torque 350Nm at 1,650 to 4,400rpm.

The new IS’s safety equipment has been upgraded with the Lexus Safety System +. It combines Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Radar Cruise Control.

US SALES 2015 - TOYOTA/LEXUS - Another brand and more growth, with some models up over a quarter.

• Toyota and Lexus post best-ever December sales
• TMS light trucks set new December record
• Toyota Division No. 1 retail brand in 2015

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported December 2015 sales of 238,350, an increase of 10.8 percent from December 2014 on a volume basis. With two additional selling days in December of 2015, sales were up 2.9 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. 

For the year TMS reported sales of 2,499,313 units, a 5.3 percent increase.

Toyota Division posted record December 2015 sales of 196,970 units, up 12.4 percent. For the year, Toyota Division sales of 2,154,712 were up 4.5 percent.

“2015 was a standout year for the auto industry,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager for the Toyota division. “Best-ever light truck sales helped the Toyota division earn the retail sales crown for the fourth consecutive year.”

Lexus reported all-time, any-month record sales in December of 41,380 units, a 3.8 percent increase.  For the year, Lexus sales of 344,601 units were up 10.7 percent.

“December closed out an all-time, best-ever year with sales we couldn’t have predicted,” said Jeff Bracken, group vice president and general manager for the Lexus division. “Lexus’ SUV sales momentum and the strength of our product lineup has us well positioned for 2016.”

“Next week in Detroit, we will debut a Lexus vehicle that opens a new chapter for an even brighter future,” Bracken added.    

December 2015 Highlights:

• Toyota and Lexus post best-ever sales December sales
• Combined TMS light truck sales set December record
• RAV4 posts best-ever December with sales of 31,866 units; up 38.6 percent
• Highlander reports best-ever December with sales of 16,100 units
• NX up 76.7 percent; 5,134 units sold  
• LX up nearly 80 percent
• GS posts sales of 3,423 units
• Lexus Certified Used Vehicles reports best-ever month

2015 CY Highlights

• Best-ever year for Corolla, with sales of 363,332 units
• Best-ever year for RAV4 and Highlander, up 17.8 and 8.8 respectfully
• 4Runner sales up 26.2 percent
• Tacoma sales up 15.8, with sales of nearly 180,000 units
• Camry best-selling passenger car in America for 14th straight year
• Lexus luxury utility vehicles sales up 26.5 percent
• GX up 11.1 percent