Toyota Launches bZ7 and Lexus ES to Compete in China’s EV Market

Toyota is making significant strides in the competitive electric vehicle (EV) market with plans to launch two new models, the Toyota bZ7 and Lexus ES, in China by mid-2026.

This move follows Toyota’s commitment to reclaim market share from local EV heavyweights like BYD, amidst China’s advanced landscape in vehicle electrification.

Unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2025, the Toyota bZ7 emerges as the brand’s flagship electric sedan, developed in collaboration with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) and Intelligent ElectroMobility R&D Center.

Toyota’s bZ7 Electric Sedan Set to Compete with Tesla and BYD in 2025

Measuring over 5 meters in length, the bZ7 is set to compete head-to-head with premium rivals such as the BYD Han L and Tesla Model S. While specific technical details remain limited, Toyota emphasizes that the bZ7 will showcase its renowned safe and reliable manufacturing, enriched by cutting-edge technology tailored for the Chinese market.

In tandem with the bZ7, the new Lexus ES marks a pivotal addition to the luxury lineup, becoming the first next-generation model to offer both electric and hybrid powertrain options.

Based on the LF-ZC concept, the new ES will feature the industry’s first Responsive Hidden Switches, which seamlessly integrate physical controls into the vehicle’s interior for enhanced user experience. Potential ranges for the EV variant are impressive, with up to 685 km (425 miles) for front-wheel drive, and 610 km (379 miles) for all-wheel drive, according to the CLTC cycle.

Both the bZ7 and Lexus ES are crucial components of Toyota’s expanding portfolio in China, joining models like the bZ4X, bZ3, and bZ5. Set to debut three new electric vehicles by March 2026, including the RZ and UX, Lexus aims to bolster its presence in the electrified market. As competition heats up, it remains to be seen if these new entries can effectively challenge China’s dominant EV landscape.