Lexus is taking a bold step forward with the all-electric Lexus ES, a sophisticated fastback saloon that revives the brand’s original allure in luxury auto design. Positioned as an elegant and practical alternative to the heavily optioned German vehicles, it offers most of its features as standard, reflecting Lexus’s commitment to value without compromise.
Having shifted focus towards SUVs and crossovers, Lexus’s lineup is dominated by hybrid models. The new electric model breaks the trend, offering something different in a segment where saloon cars have seen declining sales. Sharing its platform with the Toyota Camry and Crown, though neither available in the UK, the ES takes inspiration from its predecessors yet carves its own niche as the first to be all-electric.
Those interested in luxury vehicles might also be curious how Aston Martin’s Valen Supercar blends bold new design with stunning aesthetics.
Launching the vehicle with a starting price of £59,000, well above its Toyota sibling’s entry point in the U.S. market, Lexus infuses the model with Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality. This aligns with its marketing ethos, emphasizing a narrative shaped by legacy and meticulous market research since the inception of the ‘Circle F’ project in 1983.
History of the All-Electric Lexus ES
The ambitious ‘Circle F’ initiative saw Toyota investing $1 billion, resulting in the acclaimed 1989 Lexus LS460. It set a precedent for luxury that other brands would emulate. Today, this spirit lives on as major Chinese firms join the competitive landscape, influencing Lexus’s ongoing dedication to craft and cultural heritage.
The ES continues this tradition, embracing ‘Omotenashi’ (hospitality), ‘Takumi’ (master craftsmanship), and ‘Kaizen’ (continuous improvement), principles akin to those upheld by brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley. These elements underpin Lexus’s strong brand recognition and customer loyalty.
Exploring innovative interiors further, consider how Lincoln’s 2027 Nautilus uses nature’s hues to inspire transformative design.
While seemingly an outlier amidst a fleet of SUVs, the Lexus saloon offers a refined and reserved alternative. Its discreet elegance may appeal to those yearning for serene luxury. At five meters long, it maintains an understated presence, with expressively sharp front lights and aerodynamically clean lines.
Distinctive Design for a Modern Age
The electric model has a side profile with a rising coachline and a rear design completed by a horizontal light bar. Available in colors like Sonic Copper and Sonic Titanium, the ES’s aesthetic choices balance dramatic appeal with practicality. Opting for 19-inch wheels enhances range capability, providing an additional 28 miles.
Interior design pairs bamboo trim with leather, enhancing tactile and visual appeal. The cabin integrates technology seamlessly, including a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and an advanced multimedia setup with a 14-inch screen. A variety of interior light settings and a redesigned HMI offer responsive interaction.
Under the hood of this electric version, a 77kWh battery delivers a WLTP-rated range of 361 miles, with practical usage expected around 300 miles. The powertrain outputs 224hp, reaching 62mph in around eight seconds, emphasizing smoothness over sheer speed.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Design
Lexus’s recent concept showcases suggest a design renaissance, featuring innovative forms and functions. While the current model exemplifies subtle luxury, it may also signal the dawn of exciting new directions for Lexus. As Lexus works toward expanding its electric vehicle offerings, the ES is positioned to lead with quiet charisma, contributing to the growing segment of electric luxury cars.
Available from £59,341, with the Takumi Edition starting at £72,545, the model offers a glimpse into the brand’s evolving identity. More details can be explored through Lexus.co.uk.
Sources & Links
Source: wallpaper.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting price of the all-electric Lexus ES?
The starting price of the all-electric Lexus ES is £59,000.
What is the range of the all-electric Lexus ES?
The WLTP-rated range of the all-electric Lexus ES is 361 miles, with practical usage expected around 300 miles.
What design principles does the Lexus ES embrace?
The Lexus ES embraces ‘Omotenashi’ (hospitality), ‘Takumi’ (master craftsmanship), and ‘Kaizen’ (continuous improvement) as part of its design principles.