Toyota puts the spotlight on Lexus, plans to add 10 hybrids by 2015

As part of a plan to restore its reputation after having gone through worldwide massive recalls, Toyota is putting the focus on Lexus and on new hybrid products. Last Wednesday, Toyota said that it is positioning Lexus further to be “global premium brand,” which will offer improved styling, more hybrids and better service. The brand's sales have dropped by 9% this year, to 26,674 in the U.S. Toyota executives anticipate that the $29,995 CT 200h, a premium hybrid that launches this month, will boost sales and appeal to new customers.

The RX SUV is still Lexus's top-selling vehicle, with sales of 6,567 this year, a 13% rise. Meanwhile, five units of the $375,000 LFA supercar were delivered in February, says AutoWeek. So far, nine were delivered in the U.S. this year. The LFA supercar delivers 552 hp and only 500 will be sold around the world. This week, a driver-development program started at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif., to provide education to buyers who wish to harness the capabilities of the performance car.
On the other hand, Toyota's Camry sedan will see development increasingly focused in North America for that market and exports. Toyota also hopes that by 2015, it will be able to add 10 more hybrids, including an expanded Prius family displayed in January at the Detroit auto show.

source :  http://www.4wheelsnews.com/toyota-puts-the-spotlight-on-lexus-plans-to-add-10-hybrids-by-2015/