Lexus Enters the Electric Era with 2026 ES 350e and ES 500e
Lexus is expanding its lineup with the introduction of two all-electric models, the 2026 ES 350e and ES 500e, marking a significant step towards electrification. The new ES, redesigned for 2026, will as well be available with a hybrid powertrain, the ES 300h, launching in September 2026. Reservations for the all-electric ES are currently being accepted.
A New Design Language: Clean Tech × Elegance
The 2026 ES showcases Lexus’s new design concept, “Clean Tech × Elegance,” blending a minimalist exterior with aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle features a wider and lower stance, and a more fluid silhouette, maintaining a recognizable Lexus character. The redesigned platform increases the car’s overall length by 165 mm and the wheelbase by 80 mm, resulting in a more spacious cabin.
The front of the vehicle features an updated spindle-shaped design, emphasizing the electrified powertrain. A black side decorative element visually lowers the car, connecting the front and rear, while a narrowed roofline contributes to the ES’s distinctive silhouette. The rear design, according to Lexus’s chief designer Kumai, is particularly dynamic and uncharacteristic of traditional sedans, optimizing airflow.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Lexus focused on creating a quieter and more comfortable interior environment. New front seats are designed for long-distance travel, and improved door seals and acoustic glass reduce road noise. The cabin incorporates hidden switch technology, where control buttons blend into the panel surface when the car is off, creating a clean, premium aesthetic.
The driver’s area follows the Lexus Tazuna philosophy, featuring a wide upper dashboard and an asymmetric 12.3-inch digital gauge panel. A 14-inch LexusConnect display, integrated with the Lexus Link+ app, provides a redesigned home screen with essential information.
Electric Powertrain Options
Two fully electric ES models will be available starting in June 2026:
- ES 350e: Front-wheel drive, producing 224 DIN hp (165 kW).
- ES 500e: All-wheel drive, delivering 343 DIN hp (252 kW).
Both models utilize Lexus’s latest electrification technologies and the new global K platform. The ES 350e, equipped with a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds. The ES 500e, with a 75 kWh battery, achieves a quicker acceleration time of 5.5 seconds.
The ES 500e features Lexus’s DIRECT4 all-electric all-wheel drive system, continuously adjusting torque distribution between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions. This system enhances stability and handling.
Charging Solutions
Lexus owners have access to two charging solutions through the Lexus Link+ app:
- Lexus HomeCharge: Home charging with smart scheduling to accept advantage of lower electricity prices.
- Lexus Charging Network: Access to over 870,000 charging stations across Europe.
The EV interface displays range, charging information, and scheduled charging options. Battery pre-conditioning improves fast charging performance in cold weather. The maximum electric range is up to 581 km (WLTP), with fast charging capable of replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
Hybrid Option
The new Lexus ES 300h offers an improved 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain (201 DIN hp / 148 kW), available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Advanced Safety Features
The new ES is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+, including a driver monitoring system to detect fatigue or distraction. It also features Lane Change Assist and Front Cross Traffic Alert as part of the safety package.