Lexus Launches First Battery Electric Vehicle in India at ₹89.99 Lakh

Lexus India on Thursday launched the All-New ES500e in New Delhi, marking the brand's entry into the battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment in India. Priced at ₹89,99,000 (ex-showroom), the sedan is available for booking immediately at Lexus Guest Experience Centres across the country. The launch makes Lexus one of the few global luxury automotive brands to introduce a dedicated BEV platform in the Indian market.

The ES500e is powered by a newly developed 74.68 kWh lithium-ion battery pack producing a maximum system output of 252 kW. The vehicle is ARAI-certified for a driving range of 580 km on a single charge. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and supports DC fast charging at 150 kW, with a 10–80% charge achievable in approximately 28 minutes at a battery temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. The ES500e is offered exclusively in an all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration and measures 5,145 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, 1,575 mm in height, and carries a 2,950 mm wheelbase. Tyre size is 235/45R21.

Speaking at the launch, Hikaru Ikeuchi, President of Lexus India, said the ES500e represented the brand's vision for the future of luxury mobility in India, and that the launch reinforced its multi-pathway approach to electrification. He added that the vehicle was designed to harmonise environmental consciousness with luxury and advanced technology. Kohei Chiashi, Chief Engineer at Lexus International, described the model as built for guests who prioritise driving performance, comfort, and safety. He cited the vehicle's low centre of gravity and high body rigidity as contributors to ride quality, and noted that the new ES introduced a fresh sedan experience through its TNGA platform.

The ES500e is built on Toyota's TNGA GA-K platform, which Lexus says provides a reinforced, highly rigid structure that reduces vibration while improving steering response and overall driving dynamics. The front suspension uses a MacPherson strut configuration, while the rear uses a multi-link suspension — a first for the ES model line. Power is managed through a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system that integrates front and rear eAxles with advanced AWD control, with the stated aim of balancing traction, handling stability, and power efficiency across varying road conditions.

The design of the ES500e follows what Lexus calls a Clean Tech x Elegance concept, drawing inspiration from the LF-ZC, the brand's next-generation BEV concept. The exterior adopts what Lexus describes as a Provocative Simplicity design theme, characterised by a flowing silhouette, a new-generation Spindle body, and a Twin L-Signature lamp at the front. The rear features a single light bar — called the Rear L-Signature Lamp — that integrates the taillight, stoplight, and the illuminated Lexus logo. The body tapers toward the rear to project a low centre-of-gravity stance. The car is offered in five exterior colours: White Nova, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black, Sonic Copper, and Sou.

Inside, the cabin follows the brand's Time is Luxury concept, which Lexus says draws from its Time in Design philosophy — an approach centred on aesthetics that evolve with use. The cockpit features a 12.3-inch uniquely shaped digital display and a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen. The interior uses a combination of suede materials, ambient lighting, and what Lexus terms Micro Geo patterning — fine geometric details intended to convey a modern, refined character. A notable addition is surface-illuminated door trim, which Lexus says is being introduced for the first time on any of its models. A Mark Levinson Surround Sound System with optimised speaker placement and 3D audio completes the cabin setup. Interior colour options are Hazel and White. The vehicle also features auto and easy door closure for all four doors, as well as a power boot lid.

On the technology front, the ES500e includes what Lexus claims are the world's first Responsive Hidden Switches — touch-sensitive controls integrated into the steering wheel and instrument panel that remain invisible when not in use, contributing to a cleaner dashboard aesthetic. The claim is based on Lexus internal data for announced models as of April 2025. The vehicle's connected systems allow owners to remotely monitor battery status, review driving range, schedule charging sessions, and access charging history through the Lexus India app. Remote activation of cabin climate functions — including air conditioning, seat heating, and seat ventilation — is also supported. The system is compatible with both smartphones and smartwatches. Live car tracking and an integrated emergency call feature are included as standard.

The ES500e is equipped with the new generation of Lexus Safety System+, covering a broad range of driver-assistance functions: Pre-Collision System (PCS), Auto Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Adaptive High Beam System (AHS), and a Drive Monitoring Camera (DMC). A Blind Spot Monitor and a Panoramic View Monitor with a new 3D View function are also included.

In terms of after-sales support, Lexus is offering the ES500e with an 8-year/200,000-km vehicle and battery warranty, which the company says is the first such coverage offered in India's luxury car industry, subject to terms and conditions. The ownership package includes a 5-year roadside assistance programme covering towing, taxi service, repatriation, onsite mobile charging, and towing to the nearest dealership or charging station. The car comes with a 2.8 kW portable charger and an 11 kW home charger as standard. The vehicle is compatible with both AC and DC fast charging. Lexus is also offering an Assured Buyback Programme with low EMIs and a Guaranteed Future Residual Value for customers seeking financial flexibility. Service packages under the Lexus Luxury Care scheme are available in Comfort and Relax variants, for periods of 3 years/40,000 km, 5 years/60,000 km, or 8 years/90,000 km.

The ES nameplate has been in production since 1989, when it was launched alongside the flagship Lexus LS. The model has since been sold in more than 80 countries and has been recognised for its quietness, ride comfort, and cabin space. Lexus entered the BEV conversation globally after launching the RX 400h hybrid in 2005, and has since sold over 3 million hybrid vehicles worldwide. The brand entered India in March 2017 and currently offers five models in the country. Its locally produced ES 300h — a petrol-hybrid variant introduced in 2020 — has been its top-selling model in India. A hybrid (HEV) version of the new ES generation is expected to be announced later in 2026, with details to be shared at an appropriate time, according to the company.