When the Lexus LS 600h went on sale in July of this year, many people were skeptical if Toyota would able to sell a $100,000 hybrid. Lexus expected to sell 2,000 units annually and had 1,650 pre-orders before the car even hit the market. But despite the LS 600h’s hefty price tag and lack-luster reviews, Lexus has sold 6,093 examples worldwide through October.
While it remains unclear what exactly is driving the sales of the LS 600h, its been likened to the Toyota Prius phenomenon — it’s a statement vehicle, even if its fuel economy isn’t that impressive. The New York Times called the Lexus hybrid the “new standard for automotive hyperbole.”
Whatever the driving force, other luxury marques — such as Mercedes, Audi and BMW – have taken notice and are developing “greener” vehicles of their own.
