Lexus expects to sell 25,000 HS 250h hybrids in first year

Just like the rest of the industry, Toyota's sales are down this year, and that includes its standard-bearing Prius hybrid hatchback. There are signs that the new 2010 model will revive Prius sales somewhat, and the Japanese automaker is hoping to have similar success with its new Lexus HS 250h luxury hybrid sedan. According to Mark Templin, group vice president of the Lexus Division for Toyota North America:

More than 60 percent of entry luxury sedan buyers said they would consider hybrids, and this is a segment nobody's in right now. People are feeling better about the economy, and our dealers are asking for more cars. That's a good sign.

Lexus reportedly expects to sell some 25,000 HS 250h hybrid sedans in the car's first 12 months on the market in the States, which would immediately make the new HS 250h the best selling luxury hybrid car in America. Perhaps there's reason to be optimistic – hybrid vehicles actually managed to grab market share in the month of May and the price of fuel is slowly rising again.

[Source: Automotive News - subs. req'd]