Automotive News is reporting that a production model based on the Lexus LF-LC concept is currently on track for development:
Company executives said in January that the flashy 2+2 sports coupe was not planned for production. But several Lexus insiders now say the overwhelming reaction means it almost certainly will come to market.
Dealers could see the coupe in their showrooms within three years.
It also would be targeted further upscale, against the Porsche 911 Turbo and Aston Martin Vantage, both of which tickle the $120,000 mark.
Toyota can take up to 36 months to take a prototype to Job 1. Much depends on whether the new vehicle is derived from an existing chassis and component set. If Lexus uses the IS-F sedan platform, it could shave months off the development time.
While any talk of timelines or platforms is purely speculative, there is solid evidence of a possible production LF-LC — check out the GS sales target inscribed on this laser-cut etching sent to dealerships:
It’s unclear whether this laser sculpture was sent to dealerships globally or just in the USA — with 11,000 sales so far this year and 2,195 sales per month on average since the new model was introduced, 27,500 GS sales in 2012 might be a stretch for the U.S. market, but would be possible if worldwide sales are included.
The Automotive News article does include some positive news regardless:
…the Lexus source said the LF-LC probably would be produced even if dealers don’t hit the GS sales target.
[Source: Automotive News]
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