Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 2 June 2026
Lexus has reportedly cancelled plans for an electric version of the IS sedan to replace the petrol/hybrid version.
According to a report published by Automobilwoche, a Lexus spokesperson shared this news in an interview.
It was reportedly cancelled following a “company-wide review of vehicle development projects, taking into account fluctuations in market demand”.
As the United States of America holds the biggest share of the brand’s sales, it is influential in what models get the green light.
The ending of federal tax incentives on EVs saw a sharp drop in demand, and sedans still aren’t beating SUVs anytime soon.
The electric IS sedan was initially going to start production within the year, but delays saw this get pushed back to 2027.
In New Zealand, the Lexus IS was last updated in 2021, but the model was pulled from local showrooms soon after.
Currently, the Lexus sedan offering consists of two models; the ES and the range-topping LS.
