Lexus has entered what it calls a “new era,” with the unveiling of the first electric vehicle (EV) built on a dedicated EV platform – a Toyota Group architecture known as e. – TNGA.
First and last name Lexus RZ450eit is designed as a competitor to high-end EV crossovers like Tesla Model Y, Audi E-Tron, BMW iX3, Mercedes-Benz EQCand Genesis GV70 is electrified.
It shares a lot of its background with Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra twins, grow together.
This is Lexus’ first new-generation model, as the company is aiming to have electric versions of all its models by 2030 and become EV-only by 2035.
Battery capacity is listed as 71.4kWh which is in line with Toyota/Subaru and the company says their target driving range is a fairly modest 400km on a single charge or up to 450km on a WLTC urban cycle.
Design-wise, it has Lexus’ signature corrugated metal plate, and its rear three-quarters in particular look a lot like the petrol/hybrid Lexus RX. Following the wheel traces of the new petrol/hybrid Lexus NX 200t, it uses a full-width taillight bar and a lettering badge.
The ducktail shape at the bottom of the trunk helps reduce drag and generates downforce, Lexus claims. Without the need for a radiator, the RZ adopts the trademark ‘spindle’ grille design but hints at the use of familiar shaped bumpers and lights.
While the outside could be called an evolution of what the brand has been doing, the inside of the RZ is unlike any other Lexus before it.
As Tesla has tried on the Model S, it has a wire steering pin instead of a steering wheel – the bZ4x also debuted with one – although we bet there will be a more conventional offering.
It has a large driver-facing touchscreen and a simpler, easier-to-see layout than what we’re used to seeing in Lexus. Shift-by-wire means Lexus’ first gearshift knob, while the NX’s ‘e-latch’ door mechanism also features.
Seat materials use 30% “bio-based sustainable materials” and an available panoramic glass roof with 99% heat shielding, insulation and UV protection, and a first Lexus other: dimming function like BMW iX.
Expecting the RZ to be quiet on the road, Lexus says the battery under the floor acts as a sound barrier. The sealed bonnet circumference cuts down on turbulent airflow, and the soundproof glass cuts out other unwanted sounds.
The underbody e-TNGA platform was designed for EVs from the start, in a way unlike the first Lexus EV, the UX300e.
The RZ uses MacPherson strut suspension at the front, and the rear uses a double-wishbone configuration. Lexus is installing frequency-responsive dampers to change the damping force on extended journeys based on how rough the road is, while “performance dampers” that provide a stiffer ride will be provide.
Interestingly, Lexus says its battery control technology allows for a capacity retention rate of at least 90% after 10 years.
It looks like a rather complicated kit in terms of its running gear, with motors driving each shaft with a variable torque distribution system from 150kW (front) and 80kW (front) outputs. behind).
Lexus says the AWD system “uses acceleration, cornering speed and steering angle information to automatically adjust front-to-rear torque distribution and braking force to all four wheels.”
Off course and when driving straight, the power distribution from front to back ranges from 40% to 60% and vice versa.
But when steering or steering, the drive force will favor the front wheel from 50 to 75% for more feeling.
When exiting a corner, the system flips the scenario by sending up to 80% of the system’s output to the rear axle to create RWD overdrive.
Wired steering is another of the first Lexus systems, with the benefit of being able to suppress vibrations from the tires and brakes since any physical connections are removed.
Let’s hope Lexus took a moment to tweak the feel and response, unlike the Infiniti’s system from the Q50 a decade ago.
In terms of driver assistance, Lexus uses the term “teammate” to describe a system that assists in traffic jams and lane keeping on highways. If the vehicle senses the driver is slipping, the vehicle can slow down to come to a stop, unlock the doors and call an ambulance on its own.
Like the Kia Sorento, it can also park remotely – but through an app and not via the key.
Size
- Length: 4805mm
- Width: 1895mm
- Height: 1635mm
- Wheelbase: 2850mm
Australia
Lexus Australia division said “would love to have it“But there is no word on the local time. It will certainly come, but the larger markets in Europe, Asia and the US will in all likelihood take precedence – as these often do due to Australia’s slow adoption of the BEV.
Lexus Australia wants 80% of its sales by 2025 will come from cars with hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or battery electric (BEV) drive systems – making gasoline-only products a fraction of the volume. its.
This is better than the record 39% hybrid market share achieved in 2021.
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