Lexus RZ450e: A new player in the electric car race

It seems like the actual electric car race has now started. Every big and small carmaker is adding more and more battery cars to their lineup. If we talk mainly about the luxury segment, the German car brands - Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW just introduced us to their latest developments, the EQS SUV, Urbansphere concept, and i7, respectively. 

These automakers are racing hard to catch up with Tesla in the luxury electric car race. But, the company which joins this party late is Lexus; it just pulled the wraps off its first electric vehicle concept, the Lexus RZ450e. And, here we bring the key highlights of this luxury electric car.

Underpins e-TNGA EV platform

Despite the late arrival to the EV party, Toyota aims high to rule the segment. Last year, it showcased the 15-model strong concept car lineup, including the Lexus RZ450e. The latest EV concept borrows thee-TNGA EV architecture from the Toyota bZ4x, which is bound to arrive in Malaysia sooner or later. Subaru Solterra EV also underpins the same base, which the two Japanese automakers jointly develop.

Also read: Toyota bZ4X: Malaysia-bound all-electric SUV in detailed pictures

Dual-electric-motor setup

Lexus's first electric car is equipped with two electric motors integrated into each axle. The front axle motor delivers a maximum power output of 203 PS, while the rear is good for making 108 PS; the combined output is rated around 308 PS. As per the automaker, the axles fully integrate the electric motor, inverter, and transaxle within a compact unit, leading to great cabin space. 

400 km of driving range

The dual-motor setup is mated to a 71.4kWh battery pack that offers almost 400 km of driving range on a single charge. While Lexus did not reveal charging specifications, it claims the batteries will retain 90% of their charge-holding capacity even after a decade of usage.

Direct4 all-wheel-drive system

Lexus RZ's electric drivetrain features an all-new Direct4 all-wheel-drive system, which adjusts power distribution between the wheels based on the steering angle, acceleration, and vehicle speed. During hard acceleration, it adjusts from a 60:40 split to a 75:25 front bias at the time of entering corners and a 20:80 rear bias on exiting the corner.

In terms of performance, the Lexus EV runs from zero to 100 kmph in 7.9 seconds and achieves a top speed of 159 kmph.

Striking exterior

The model we see here is in prototype form. Still, it looks more production-ready with a sculpted body panel in place of a conventional radiator grille and vertical air vents rising upward to join the headlights. The latter is reminiscent of the units available on the NX hybrid SUV. Adding to the EV's striking appearance is a distinct sloping coupe-like roofline, a spoiler on the rear windshield, and sleek tail lights connected by an LED light strip.

Yoke steering wheel with a steer-by-wire system

Keeping the affluent clientele in mind, Lexus designed the RZ450e's cabin with simplicity and upscale materials. One of the major highlights is an unusual yoke-style steering wheel paired with a steer-by-wire system. It eliminates the mechanical connection between the driver and front wheels and feeds the steering input to an electronic system that controls the steering at the wheels. 

As per the automaker, this tech will make the driving convenient and avoid the need for hand-over-hand steering turns while manoeuvring. 

Comfort features

The Lexus RZ EV concept is kitted with a bucket load of comfort features, some of which are -

• 14.0-inch infotainment screen
• Digital driver's display
• Head-up display
• Touch interface controls in place of physical buttons
• Dimmable panoramic roof reflecting infrared radiations, which can be switched to opaque
• Knee-height heaters ahead of the front seats
• Vegan suede upholstery 
• Rotary drive selector

Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 

The automaker has also packed the EV with the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 pack of driving assistance bits. These include Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Emergency Driving Stop System.

As per Lexus chief engineer Takashi Watanabe, "The RZ has been developed with the aim of creating a uniquely Lexus BEV that feels secure to ride in, is pleasing to the touch, and is exhilarating to drive."

With this, we can conclude that it's better late than never. What do you say?

Also read: All-new Lexus NX is coming to Malaysia; two variants on cards