Autogefühl has traveled to the USA to test the all-new Lexus ES. He reveals that it is intended to replace both the current ES and LS, making it Lexus’s sole flagship sedan.

The new ES will be offered with hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.

Regarding the ES EV, Autogefühl argues that its maximum battery capacity of 72 kWh (net) is “way, way, way” too small for a current-generation electric sedan. He also criticises the charging speed as slow and outdated compared to rival brands.

I agree with that assessment. A 72 kWh battery is considered mid-range by today’s standards and would typically deliver around 250 miles of range — unless Lexus has developed exceptionally efficient batteries or is intentionally prioritizing lower weight over maximum range.

Regardless of the engineering rationale, Lexus’s EV platform currently appears to lag behind many of its Chinese competitors.