Lexus Sets the Stage for Electrifying Debuts in China

Toyota has officially confirmed the schedule for the market introduction of key novelties and the development of production capacities of its premium brand Lexus in China. According to the statement by Toyota China’s CEO, Li Huai, the market release of the all-new Lexus ES in China will take place in April 2026.

The updated sedan is built on a deeply modernized platform that allows for simultaneous production of both traditional hybrids and fully electric versions. Customers will be offered three versions: the hybrid ES 300h, and two fully electric models – ES 350e and ES 500e.

Simultaneously with the model range update, Toyota is completing a major project to create its own production base in Shanghai. According to the head of Lexus New Energy, Ma Li, the construction of the plant will be completed in the second half of 2026 (approximately in August). The project is unique in that it is a full-cycle enterprise for the development and production of electric vehicles and batteries, 100% owned by the parent corporation Toyota. The designed capacity of the Shanghai plant will be 100,000 vehicles per year. The first serial samples of local assembly are expected to roll off the assembly line in 2027.

Toyota is aligning its strategies with China’s aggressive push for electric vehicle adoption, which is evident in the government’s plans to drastically increase the share of new energy vehicles. The Shanghai plant is expected to further bolster Toyota’s position in the Chinese EV market, particularly as competition grows with local and international brands vying for shares in the burgeoning sector.