Lexus already has an electric version of an existing model in the range. But with the RZ 450e, the Japanese manufacturer presents its first-ever exclusive electric vehicle.
close cousin of Toyota bZ4X of which he is a clonethe RZ also shares its technical basis with the new Subaru Solterra† After the presentation of its two equivalents, the RZ 450e arrives where it was expected
A Less Tormented Design for Lexus’ Electric SUV
This model also takes the sharp lines of its cousins, but Lexus still plays the surprise. Indeed, the RZ 450e softens some of the rough edges of the bZ4X and Solterra.
This is particularly evident in the rear fenders, which have a slightly more curved shape. The doors also have softer lines than the other two clones.
At the front, the central part of the hood protrudes, unlike the Toyota. In addition, the integration of the tapered grille allows the RZ to offer a distinctly different visual alternative.
A specific interior for the Lexus RZ 450e
Again, we find the same elements in the same places as in the other two models. However, the upholstery is clearly different and can be seen on the center console.
For example, the wide 14-inch screen fits in the center console, and lower than in the Toyota bZ4X. Lexus engineers wanted to give the driver a very good forward view.
Lexus also offers a screen behind the wheel, for instrumentation. This does not change whether the vehicle has a steering wheel or a yoke.
Indeed, the Lexus RZ 450e will be available later with an aviation-type handle like the Tesla Model S and the Tesla Model X Plaid.
As in the Toyota, the ‘One Motion Grip’ electronic steering Send-by-wire† This adapts the operating angle of the steering to the speed for a very smooth ride with limited movements.
In addition, the manufacturer offers numerous safety systems, which it groups under the Lexus Safety System+. This provides proactive driving through the vehicle, with the aim of detecting possible accidents, but also signs of fatigue or distraction.
An engine we already know
The Lexus RZ has the same engine as the brand’s electric SUV UX 300e. It is a set of two e-Axle motors, which are located on the two axles of the vehicle.
They work with DIRECT4 all-wheel drive, which Lexus has designed to continuously balance the wheel drive. In this way, the car directly and permanently adjusts the power and torque it sends to each wheel.
The two 150 kW front and 80 kW rear engines develop 230 kW or 313 hp. The SUV shows a torque of 435 Nm.
A classic yet durable battery
Lexus didn’t go all in on capacity for the RZ 450e’s battery, but on durability for the electric SUV. So it contains a package of 71.4 kWh useful capacity.
In terms of autonomy, the Japanese manufacturer predicts a distance of more than 400 km in the WLTP cycle, with a charge. But it is sustainability, both for the customer and for the environment, that Lexus is committed to.
The manufacturer is therefore aiming for batteries that can retain more than 90% of their capacity after ten years. Since more than 20 years manufacturer of hybrid cars, Lexus wants to capitalize on its experience.
2022.03.28
Price and Marketing of the Lexus RZ Electric SUV
We don’t know the prices of the Lexus RZ 450e yet, but we can get an idea of it. These will of course exceed 45,000 euros, just like the bZ4X, and do not offer access to the maximum ecological bonus.
With Toyota, renting in LLD vary between 399 and 469 euros per month, with a very large contribution. We can expect much higher prices for the luxury brand of the group, and a top class of more than 60,000 euros. The latter wouldn’t offer no access to the ecological bonus†
Lexus specifies that reservations for the RZ 450e will open in France from April 20. Deliveries will begin in January 2023, with the One Motion Grip control coming later next year.
