Lexus India on Thursday launched the all-new Lexus ES500e at an ex-showroom price of ₹89.99 lakh, marking its entry into the battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment in India, with a hybrid version set to follow at a later date. Bookings are now open, with deliveries expected in the coming months.

The ES500e is the company’s first fully electric offering in the country and signals a calibrated shift beyond strong hybrids into a wider electrified portfolio. The sedan offers a claimed range of up to 580 km on a single charge and produces 252 kW of power, placing it squarely in the emerging luxury EV bracket, as claimed by the Japanese luxury carmaker.

The company had earlier stated that it will initially be focussing on Plug-in hybrid vehicles before diversifying into BEVs.

Electrification strategy widens

The launch aligns with Lexus’s multi-pathway strategy, where it continues to back both hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and BEVs to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

“The ES has been one of our most important models globally and in India,” said Kohei Chiashi, Lexus International Chief Engineer, adding, “With the ES500e, we are integrating electrification with gains in ride comfort, stability and overall refinement.”

Lexus has so far leaned heavily on hybrids in India, led by the ES300h, but the EV rollout reflects a gradual pivot amid tightening emission norms and rising interest in zero-emission mobility.

Platform, performance and tech

Built on the TNGA GA-K platform, the ES500e comes with all-wheel drive and accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. It supports 150 kW fast charging, enabling a 10–80% charge in about 28 minutes.

The model also introduces new technologies such as responsive hidden switches, a new-generation infotainment system and an upgraded safety suite under Lexus Safety System+.

“This marks a significant step in our electrification journey in India,” said Hikaru Ikeuchi, President, Lexus India. “We will continue to expand our portfolio in line with customer demand and sustainability goals.”

Premium EV play

The ES500e enters a still-nascent luxury EV segment, competing with established German rivals while banking on Lexus’s reputation for comfort and reliability.

With pricing close to ₹90 lakh and an 8-year/200,000 km battery warranty, the company is positioning the sedan as a long-range, low-risk entry point into electric luxury mobility.