Lexus Executive Advisor Hints A Fuel-Cell Vehicle Could Be Coming

BY Michael Gauthier | Posted on

Lexus offers a handful of hybrids including everything from the NX 300h to the LC 500h. However, the company hasn’t embraced plug-in hybrids or fully electric vehicles.

That will likely change in the future as Lexus’ executive advisor, Jeff Bracken, told Wards Auto “We will absolutely work to improve mileage through additional hybrids in our product mix.” Bracken declined to say which models are in for the hybrid treatment but the company only offers a few vehicles without the option. They include the IS, RC, GX and LX.

When asked about the possibility of a pure electric vehicle, Bracken suggested the company would “eventually have an electrified option.” He went on to say this could be a plug-in hybrid, an electric vehicle or a fuel-cell vehicle.

 

 

Speaking of the latter, Bracken implied an FCV was all but official as he stated “There is a chance of a future fuel-cell-powered Lexus, although the timing of that announcement has not yet been determined. All I can say is, stay tuned.”

Bracken made the statement after being asked about the possibility of a Lexus-branded version of the Toyota Mirai. However, previous reports have a suggested an LS-based fuel cell was in the works.

Besides talking about eco-friendly models, Bracken said Lexus doesn’t have any plans to introduce a car which would cost less than $30,000. He also ruled out entering the A- and B-segments.

While the company doesn’t have any intentions of producing compact models besides the upcoming UX, Bracken said the LF-1 Limitless concept represents one of the gaps the company is trying to fill in its lineup. Bracken has been pushing for a production version of the concept and the company recently filed an application for LQ moniker.

 

McLaren Doesn’t Intend To Roll Out A Sub-$200,000 Model

Exec says the Sports Series will remain the British automaker’s entry-level model.
Lexus Executive Advisor Hints A Fuel-Cell Vehicle Could Be Coming

Previous reports have suggested the model could be based on the Lexus LS.
$2 Billion Chinese Investment In Faraday Future Cleared By U.S. Committee

This has aided the struggling startup, which will begin building its factory in two months.
Why Wait For An All-New Ford Bronco When You Get Icon’s Old School BR

The Bronco Old School BR features a 5.0-liter V8 with 426 hp.
Ferrari 488 Challenge Powerslides At Misano, Shreds Tires In No Time

If you thought modern-day Ferraris can’t get much cooler than a 488 Pista, then you’ve forgotten about the 488 Challenge.
Kroger And Nuro To Launch An Autonomous Grocery Delivery Service

A pilot program will kick off this fall and deliver groceries directly to customers.
MG Reportedly Working On An Electric AWD Mazda MX-5 Miata Rival

The car is reportedly just one of a handful of sports car under development.
All-New 2018 Ford Focus Tested: Is It A Segment Leader?

Ford calls it the most “accomplished and technically-competent Focus ever”.
Price Of The US-Made Toyota Camry Could Rise By $1,800 Due To New Tariffs

Toyota says they’re no threat to national security and already employ more than 137,000 Americans.
Removing The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL’s Top Is Easier But Still A Two-Man Job

Undressing the Jeep Wrangler is easier than ever but it’s still a long process.