Toyota Readies Lexus for Japan Launch

So what can Japanese Lexus buyers expect? Top-tier service, of course. This will include a 24-hour helpline available inside

No announcement has been made as to just how many new cars and SUVs Toyota is expecting to sell through its new Japanese Lexus division. (Photo: Lexus)

each car. At the touch of a button Toyota's G-Book Alpha telematics system, similar to GM's OnStar service, can connect Lexus occupants to concierge for real-time information about road conditions, traffic, weather, and even information and directions to restaurants. The new system will also allow occupants to download audio, video and games. Even more important, G-Book Alpha will contact a 911 service in case of accident; alerting authorities of the state of the car and through direct communication, the state of its occupants (see automotive news for Apr 20, 2005: New Toyota Telematics System to Battle GM's OnStar?).

The system even can send a message to a cellular phone via Net-linking, such as an alert if someone is attempting to break into the car.

For the time being, no announcement has been made as to just how many new cars and SUVs Toyota is expecting to sell through its new Japanese Lexus division, or how much the

Lexus will be in a position to harvest dealer-customer information learned in Japan and bring it back to North American markets. (Photo: Lexus)

world's second largest automaker is investing to bring the brand to its home market.

According to reports, senior managing director Kyoji Sasazu plans on using experience learned from selling Lexus in North America and Europe (see automotive news for Nov 24, 2004: Industry Report: Lexus Undaunted by Lackluster European Sales) such as financing and insurance policies, plus dealer relationships with customers.

The added bonus will be that Lexus will be in a position to harvest dealer-customer information learned in Japan and bring it back to North American markets.