Lexus of Melbourne reports 2 million Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles sold in the United States

MELBOURNE, Fla. - April 17, 2013 - PRLog -- Toyota estimates that its global fleet of nearly 20 hybrid vehicles has resulted in approximately 34 million fewer tons of CO2 emissions than those emitted by gasoline-powered vehicles. Many environmental experts believe CO2 emissions are a major cause of climate change occurring in the world today.

In addition, Toyota estimates its hybrids have saved their owners more than 3 billion gallons of gasoline compared to gasoline-only powered vehicles.

“With more than 50 hybrid vehicle models from various manufacturers available in the U.S. today, hybrids on the road are saving nearly 500 million gallons of petroleum annually in this country,” said Tony Markel, senior engineer with the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), in Golden, Colo.  

He recalled that DOE and NREL’s collaborative research with the auto industry, which started 20 years ago, spurred the development of hybrid-electric technology for the mainstream market to help reduce the country’s dependence on petroleum.

“With millions of hybrid vehicles on the road today, hybrid powertrains are mainstream market reality,” Markel concluded.

Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles make up 70 percent of the U.S. auto industry’s total hybrid sales, while they account for 16 percent of overall Toyota/Lexus sales, both globally and locally. Total industry hybrid sales are roughly three percent of the nation’s car market.

Toyota and Lexus sell 19 hybrid models and one plug-in hybrid in 80 countries and regions around the world.  Twelve of the models are available in the United States, including seven from Toyota and five from Lexus. They are Prius Liftback, Prius v, Prius c, Prius Plug-in, Camry Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, Lexus CT 200h, ES 300h, GS 450h, LS 600h and RX 450h.

Of the 12 U.S. models, Camry Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid and RX 450h are manufactured in North America with a fourth model, Highlander Hybrid, planned.

Between now and the end of 2015, Toyota will introduce 18 new hybrid models and expects global sales of its hybrids to be at least 1 million units a year in the same period. TMS forecasts that about one-third of those will be sold in the United States.

“The first Prius was a surprising success and we never imagined the market would become as vast as it has for the hybrid powertrain,” said Bob Carter, TMS senior vice president of automotive operations.

Toyota’s hybrid vehicle sales in the United States began in July 2000 with the first-generation Prius and it provided consumers excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions using a precursor to Toyota’s advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive System.  The high-technology nature and environmental benefits offered by this early Prius helped it appeal to a small but passionate following of early adopters.

With just 5,562 sold in the first six months, the Prius would eventually find favor with consumers helping it become the recognized symbol of hybrid technology. As a result, it has inspired the development of hybrid vehicles by competitors, with more than 50 models on the market today.

The first Prius has evolved into a modern family of vehicles, while leading to the development of a wide range of additional Toyota and Lexus hybrid models.

About Lexus of Melbourne

Welcome to Lexus of Melbourne, your South, Central and North Florida Elite of Lexus Dealership! Lexus of Melbourne has achieved this Prestigious award 12 times!

At Lexus of Melbourne, it’s our mission to provide the drivers of Viera FL and surrounding locations with prestigious, luxury cars, SUVs & Hybrid Vehicles from Lexus. From unparalleled customer service to world-class quality, we implement our high standards every day to meet your exacting expectations as customers by selling the finest new and used Lexus cars ever built. As a certified Lexus dealer in Viera, we go above and beyond to implement our expertise and experience to assist your every need.

Whether you’re pursuing a purchase or lease of a new or used Lexus, our vast inventory unites uncompromising quality with grandeur. Our model selection includes a wide array of Lexus Cars, SUVs and Hybrids which include the LS, GS, ES and IS Sedans, LFA and  IS F Performance, IS C Convertible, LX, GX  and RX Luxury Utility and LS, GS, RX, HS and  CT Hybrid vehicles. From 2000 to 2013 models, our dealership has a Lexus that’s perfect for you.

As Your local Lexus Auto Dealer, located in Viera FL, Lexus of Melbourne is proud to provide new and used Lexus cars, parts, accessories and service to the fine drivers of Melbourne, Cocoa-Rockledge, Merritt Island, Titusville and surrounding areas.

Call or visit Lexus of Melbourne today to experience the finest luxury cars ever built. For service inquires, contact our Service Center, and for parts inquiries, please contact our Parts Center.

Contact Information

Lexus of Melbourne
6927 Bromley Drive
Viera, FL 32940

www.lexusofmelbourne.com

Telephone: (888) 218-3971

SALES HOTLINE: (888) 675-5447

Finance: (888) 714-6190

Parts: (888) 618-9296

Service: (888) 713-7191

Showroom: (888) 714-6190

Fax: (321) 254-7151

Hours of Operation

Sales:

Sunday 12:00 PM-5:00 PM

Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM-8:00 PM

Friday 8:30 AM-7:00 PM

Saturday 8:30 AM-6:00 PM

Service and Parts:

Sunday Closed

Monday –Friday 7:30 AM-6:00 PM

Saturday 8:00 AM-2:00 PM