The Japanese automaker will also offer permanent jobs to 1,400 employees currently working there through Kelly Services, as well as to all future employees.

Akio Toyoda showed several Lexus-badged EVs at a December event in Japan. But which of them will end up on sale in the U.S., and when, remains unclear.

Keeping the flow of new Toyotas and Lexuses coming to U.S. dealers amid dozens of simultaneous threats falls to two executives who manage it all the Toyota way.

The luxury brand has been cast in a starring role in Toyota Motor's $70 billion investment. As part of the plan for Lexus dealers to serve customers and alleviate any range anxiety, gasoline-electric and plug-in hybrids will have a key role.