First Lexus EV spotted in Vietnam, with 440km range

Lexus has confirmed that the new-generation ES will make its Vietnamese debut in Ho Chi Minh City on October 7.

According to dealership information, the local lineup might comprise three electrified variants: two ES 350h hybrids and one fully electric ES 500e.

The ES 500e is expected to be priced at VND2.98 billion (US$114,700), while the two ES 350h variants are reportedly priced at VND2.36 billion ($90,840) and VND2.58 billion ($99,300), respectively.

These figures have not yet been officially confirmed by Lexus Vietnam.

The ES 500e recently spotted in Hanoi features a blue-grey exterior and shares most of its styling with the hybrid version.

The front end does away with the conventional grille, while the sides feature flush door handles.

At the rear, a full-width LED light bar is complemented by the Lexus nameplate positioned centrally across the tailgate.

Unlike the ES 350h, which combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, the ES 500e is powered entirely by electricity.

It uses two electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles, producing a combined 338 horsepower.

Power comes from a 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted beneath the passenger compartment.

According to specifications released by Lexus in the U.S., the ES 500e has an EPA-rated range of 276 miles, or some 444 km, when equipped with 19-inch wheels.

With 21-inch wheels, the range drops slightly to 272 miles, equivalent to around 438 km.

Larger dimensions and a new design

The new-generation Lexus ES also represents a substantial change in dimensions and styling.

The sedan measures 5,140 mm long, 1,920 mm wide and nearly 1,560 mm tall, with a 2,950 mm wheelbase.

Compared with its predecessor, the new ES is around 165 mm longer, 56 mm wider and 114 mm taller, while its wheelbase has increased by 79 mm.

The new design language draws inspiration from the Lexus LF-ZC concept, with an elongated body, a low-sweeping roofline and aerodynamic exterior details designed to improve efficiency.

The cabin has also been redesigned with a more minimalist layout.

Key features include a 14-inch central infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.

The new ES is also equipped with the latest-generation Lexus Interface infotainment system and Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, the brand's suite of driver-assistance and safety technologies.

The exact equipment list for the ES variants to be sold in Vietnam has yet to be announced.

Which models will the Lexus ES 500e compete with?

In Vietnam, the new-generation Lexus ES will be placed in the premium midsize sedan segment, alongside models such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6.

The ES 500e, however, differs from those conventional competitors through its fully electric powertrain.

The BMW i5 and Mercedes-Benz EQE are not currently distributed through official channels in Vietnam, while many luxury EVs priced at around VND3 billion ($115,435) are SUVs.

Therefore, the arrival of the ES 500e will give luxury-car buyers in Vietnam another fully electric sedan option, alongside the ES 350h hybrid.