Lexus Plans Sweeping Electrification Of Its ES Sedan

Trademark filings found by AutoGuide indicate that Lexus is planning an expansion of its ES sedan lineup. The series of filings show trademarks for a Lexus ES350h, ES350e, and ES500e. Frankly, Lexus’ lineup nomenclature isn’t the easiest to decipher, but we’ve broken it down for you, starting with the ES350h.

If the brand’s current nomenclature and trim structure goes on unchanged by the time these vehicles hit the showroom floor, the 350h will be a low to mid-level hybrid trim in the mid-size sedan ES lineup. Lexus’ ES lineup begins with the ES250, followed by the ES350 and ES300h. Given this, we expect the new 350h model to land with slightly better equipment than the ES300h, with features like front-wheel drive, and potentially available all-wheel drive. We also expect some luxury touches the 300h doesn’t get, like a larger infotainment screen or nicer interior trims.

The ES350e will likely adhere to the same general ethos, but as a fully-electric model. The lowercase “e” seen here is used in other places in the Lexus lineup, like the RZ, to connotate a fully-electric model. Again, expect front or all-wheel drive with some luxury touches depending on trims and options.

That leaves the ES500e. Again, expect an EV, but this time positioned at the very tip-top of the ES lineup. For this model, we’d expect nothing short of the very best electric drivetrain Lexus can fit under the hood, as well as its most luxurious interior options and tech features, in addition to expanded battery options. Given its range-topping positioning, its pricing will likely be well north of the current range-topping ES 300h F Sport Handling, which starts at $50,885 MSRP in the US.

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