Introducing the Lexus Hybrid SUV RX400h
One of the most astounding car marketing phenomena -- perhaps ever -- has been the pre-sold mania surrounding the anticipated 2006 release of the next in line Lexus hybrid SUV, the RX400h. While it is not an uncommon practice for an automobile manufacturer to pre-sell car models before they are in full production, what has happened in regard to the latest Lexus hybrid SUV, the RX400h is unlike anything that has ever happened in automotive history.
By the end of 2004 -- yes, 2004...a long time before the 2006 model year commences -- Lexus had pre-sold over 10,000 cars in its anticipated Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h model line. The pre-selling of the Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h is unparalleled. Lexus hasn't said how many 400hs it plans to manufacture monthly, and industry watchers caution it may take some time before Lexus can deliver them to consumers.
The pre-release of the Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h has been accompanied with a great deal of hype and not a bit of hyperbole. In any case and event, the Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h is a remarkable achievement in and of itself. The Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h combines the luxury that is the hallmark of Lexus with an environmentally friendly vehicle that will get good gas mileage in both the city and on the highway.
Lexus is a division of Toyota; Toyota has been a leader in the manufacture of hybrid autos for several years. Irv Miller, Toyota Vice President, exemplifies the excitement at Toyota and Lexus that surrounds the entry of the Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h onto the market in 2006. Miller remarked:
"You can drive the 400h from Los Angeles to New York and back nine times and produce less smog-forming emissions than painting a room in your house.”
Lexus is not alone in its plans to introduce its Lexus hybrid SUV. Other auto builders have plans for similar releases, beginning in 2005 and extending over the coming few years. The hybrid market is expected to continue to grow steadily at least through the end of the decade with vehicles like the Lexus hybrid SUV RX400h leading the way.
2006: Saturn Vue SUV
2007: Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Malibu
2007: Mazda Tribute SUV
2008: Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan sedans
2008: Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups
Get the facts before you invest in a hybrid vehicle!