Lexus makes yachts, too
TOYOTA’S luxury brand Lexus has followed the lead of its parent company by venturing into watercraft manufacturing. After teasing its one-off, 42-foot Sport Yacht Concept in 2017, Lexus has now committed to launching the LY 650 in 2019. Photos of the LY 650 released by Lexus shows the yacht adheres to the brand’s “L-finesse” design language, which the company confirmed is “applied beyond the world of automobiles.”
Measuring 65 feet long, with a 19-foot beam, the LY 650 has a pronounced bow, curved deck accents and imposing aft hips. Its rising and falling roofline, which flows into the rear, recalls that on Lexus cars. The yacht will have three staterooms, three heads (or toilets), and sleeping for six. Two engines are available; the standard Volvo IPS 200, and the optional Volvo IPS 1360.
Lexus is relying on the Marquis-Larson Boat Group, which built the Sport Yacht Concept, to produce, sell and service the LY 650. The car maker said the Wisconsinbased Marquis-Larson Boat Group boasts “extensive experience with bespoke boat building,” and has been known to mix artisanal craftsmanship with modern technology and inspired designs. The first LY 650 is expected to be finished in the second half of 2019, and will make its global debut soon after.
Toyota has operated its Marine Business Department since 1997, which develops premium yachts using advanced technology and quality control methods perfected in making Lexus cars. Toyota Marine’s Ponam line has included 26foot and 28-foot sport-fishing boats, and luxury cabin cruisers sized 31 feet, 35 feet, 37 feet and 45 feet. Ponam models are powered by turbocharged diesel engines based on those used in the Lexus GX 300d and LX 450d.