LEXUS has eclipsed the major milestone of two million global sales of electrified vehicles at the end of the first quarter of 2021, reflecting a commitment to the reduction of CO2 emissions across a significant number of luxury segments and a clear indication that like sister-brand Toyota, Lexus is firmly on the path to carbon-neutrality.

This commitment will continue with confirmation that Lexus International will reveal the first Lexus plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in 2021, and the first Lexus battery electric vehicle (BEV) on a dedicated platform in 2022.

By 2025, Lexus International will debut 20 new or improved models, including more than 10 BEVs, PHEVs, and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). In the same year Lexus International will make available an electrified version of every model in its line-up.

The future expectation on a global level is that sales of electrified models will exceed those of petrol/diesel-only variety.

Since the launch of the RX 400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer of electrification in luxury segments. The Lexus line-up of electrified vehicles will continue to provide a wide range of options tailored to meet the needs of luxury customers.

Based on a philosophy of "right time, right product, right place", Lexus will also further develop its electrified product portfolio to best respond to a varied range of energy sources and infrastructure environments encountered around the world.

Since 2005, Lexus electrified vehicles have contributed to a cumulative global reduction in CO2 emissions of approximately 19 million tonnes. This reduction is equivalent to the combined CO2 output of approximately 300 000 passenger cars each year for the past 15 years.

Globally, 33% of Lexus models sold were of the electrified variety during 2020. In South Africa, Lexus has already established itself as the leading luxury brand for hybrid electrification and this just further demonstrates TSAM’s commitment to this technology.

In fact, for almost every Lexus model (other than LX, RC, LS and LC) sold in the country, there is a hybrid variant available. In addition, Lexus has two hybrid-exclusive model ranges – the newly-minted IS and the premium compact UX SUV.

The UX was introduced in 2019 and has been one of the brand’s top sales drivers since its inception in South Africa. The UX offers luxury and safety in a luxury compact crossover package that combines charismatic design elements and an ultra-efficient powertrain.

The UX name is derived from the design team’s guiding concept and describes the vehicle’s mission: Urban + X-over (crossover) = UX.

“The Lexus UX was designed for the modern urban explorer seeking a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving,” says Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Lexus Sales and Marketing.

“The UX appeals to young buyers who seek not only what is new and exciting, but what’s also relevant to their lifestyles.”