Introducing the first-ever fully electric Lexus RZ 450e. As Lexus’ first global BEV (battery electric vehicle) model, the all-new Lexus RZ 450e marks Lexus’ transition into a BEV-centered brand, and it embodies the unique Lexus RZ 450e design and driving experience made available through advanced, electrified technology.
Performance
As the first globally available dedicated battery electric vehicle from Lexus, the new RZ marks the next step for the brand into a fully electrified future. The RZ 450e utilizes a dedicated battery-electric platform to significantly evolve vehicle performance for an exhilarating drive. This Lexus-first platform offers high levels of stability and ride comfort by mounting the battery under the vehicle floor for a low center of gravity and moment of inertia.
The newly developed high-output electronic axle (eAxle) fully integrates the motor, transaxle, and inverter within a compact unit to benefit cruise range, spacious interior, and excellent design. The front eAxle is packaged with a short front/rear system layout, while the rear eAxle features a low-profile layout contributing to increased interior and cargo space.
DIRECT4, the core technology of Lexus Electrified, is an all-wheel drive system that achieves quick and linear response according to driver input. The DIRECT4 drive force distribution control uses vehicle wheel speed, acceleration, and steering angle sensor information to control front-to-rear drive force ratio distribution between 100:0 and 0:100. This contributes to improved start-up acceleration, handling stability, and low power consumption.
Design
The front cockpit’s design advances the human-centered philosophy of Lexus. Inspired by the tazuna reins favored by traditional Japanese equestrians, the steering wheel features switches that are precisely synced with the available Head-Up Display, creating a space where drivers can control various functions such as navigation, audio, and drive mode select while concentrating on driving.
The exterior design expresses the seamless acceleration and dynamic torque-filled performance specific to electric vehicles. The signature Lexus spindle grille is replaced by a Spindle Body which focuses on aerodynamic efficiencies, optimized proportions, and style—versus serving the cooling and exhaust needs of an internal combustion engine. This styling evolution ushers in a new Lexus aesthetic and establishes a new design direction for future electrified offerings.
Ambient interior illumination offers a rich experience while driving. The world’s first Shadowy illumination changes the shade of light projected on to the door trim ornament when the doors are opened and closed, adding new flair to the interior space. In addition, the cabin of the RZ 450e features a panoramic roof which visually opens the space, while passenger comfort is improved by a highly efficient heating system featuring a Lexus-first radiant heater.
Technology
Under the Lexus Electrified vision, Lexus engineers pursue the creation of expressive in-cabin sounds that convey the exhilaration of driving. The RZ 450e establishes a dialogue between car and driver by matching sound frequencies to the vehicle’s speed and sound levels during dynamic actions such as acceleration. The tone and acoustic transmission characteristics of the drivetrain’s sounds were tuned to ensure its pleasantness.
The highly intuitive Lexus Interface connects you like never before. Among its available features, Intelligent Assistant integration enables you to control most features with just your voice and gets smarter over time. Cloud-based navigation offers more accurate directions and can provide real-time route information. While Profiles allow different drivers to create personalized settings that can go from vehicle to vehicle.
Experience where intuitive meets protective. This intelligent innovation can help prevent the door from opening into traffic or cyclists, and then enable you to open it effortlessly only when conditions are determined to be clear.
The 2023 Lexus RZ 450e is expected to go on sale towards the end of 2022.