Lexus RX hybrid SUV postponed

According to Toyota, the Lexus RX 400h hybrid sport utility vehicle will have its rollout date postponed.

Recently, Toyota had announced that it would start offering the hybrid in early 2005. However, Toyota has claimed that it is going to have to ramp up production to meet early demand for the hybrid vehicle. Consequently, the Lexus hybrid should hit dealers after April 15, 2005.

An AP report in MSNBC states that "Lexus .... has 9,500 confirmed orders for the RX 400h, 8,000 buyers on dealership waiting lists and about 46,000 potential purchasers who have indicated online that they want more information about the vehicle."

Addtionally, Toyota will be releasing the Toyota Highlander hybrid about "90 days after the Lexus".

This will be the 2nd and 3rd hybrid models offered by Toyota, which leads the hybrid field with its Toyota Prius.

Additionally, the two new hybrid SUVs should provide a strong challenge to the only American hybrid, the Ford Escape hybrid.

The rollouts are certain to continue and enhance Toyota's domination of hybrid market share.

In just weeks, Honda will be releasing the Accord Hybrid, the only real competition for Toyota's Prius.

Nonetheless, Toyota appears primed to revolutionize the world auto market.