The new all-electric Lexus RZ 450e is launched

The new all-electric Lexus RZ 450e has been just unveiled. As a Lexus car, the RZ 450e fully exploits the potential of new technologies to increase performance and driving pleasure in line with the "Lexus Electrified" philosophy. For this purpose, the car was extensively tested and tuned on the race track at the Shimoyama Centre in Japan, Lexus' future global headquarters.

The trim levels of the Lexus RZ 450e vary depending on the country. At present, we could identify two trims in the USA, four in the UK, and four in Europe. The ones in the UK and Europe have important differences, that's why they are included separately. Even though in various European countries the trim levels have one and the same name, there might be differences in some of the features, so do check with your local dealers for the fine details. Here are the available trim levels listed so far with full Lexus RZ 450e specifications, features, and prices.

• Lexus RZ 450e Premium AWD - specifications and features; USA
• Lexus RZ 450e Luxury AWD - specifications and features; USA
• Lexus RZ 450e Premium - specifications and features; the UK
• Lexus RZ 450e Premium Plus - specifications and features; the UK
• Lexus RZ 450e Premium Plus Bi-Tone - specifications and features; the UK
• Lexus RZ 450e Takumi - specifications and features; the UK
• Lexus RZ 450e Comfort - specifications and features; Europe
• Lexus RZ 450e Executive - specifications and features; Europe
• Lexus RZ 450e Executive Bi-Tone - specifications and features; Europe
• Lexus RZ 450e Luxury - specifications and features; Europe

First and foremost, the new RZ is a true Lexus – it has all the qualities of performance and craftsmanship that the brand is known for; with a special focus on driving pleasure with the Lexus Driving Signature. The company has used its extensive experience in electrification to combine the advantages of a battery-electric model (BEV) with the brand's signature sophistication to create a unique driving experience.

For the first time, Lexus is using the new E-Axle drives: compact engine units front and rear that work together with the new Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel drive. The new platform, specially developed for electric vehicles, offers excellent body rigidity, a low center of gravity, and a long wheelbase – thus creating the conditions for precise handling characteristics and direct response. The optional "One Motion Grip" steer-by-wire system in combination with the innovative Yoke steering wheel will be introduced in 2025. This enables even simpler and more precise steering.

The powerful lithium-ion battery unit is fully integrated into the chassis under the cabin floor; their quality is closely controlled to ensure long-term performance. The platform and the battery-electric powertrain also open up new design freedoms. On the outside, the designers have reinterpreted the spindle-shaped Diabolo grille, while the bright and open interior expresses Lexus Omotenashi's hospitality and Takumi craftsmanship in a way that is as simple as it is luxurious.

With its emission-free performance, the new data center supports the Lexus brand on its way to climate neutrality and a sustainable mobility society. This applies not only to the performance and characteristics of the vehicle on the road but covers the entire life cycle, from the procurement of the parts to manufacturing and ownership to disposal. At the Lexus plant in Motomachi, where the data center rolls off the production line, new processes have already been introduced to reduce emissions.

The new electric platform and the electric drive give the RZ a low centre of gravity and a flat bonnet. Based on this, a silhouette gently rising towards the rear develops, offering rear passengers more headroom (67 mm). The wheels – 18-inches as standard and up to 20 inches with the Executive and Luxury packages – are placed far outside, emphasizing the vehicle's width, long wheelbase and low center of gravity.

The RZ measures 4,805 mm in length, has a wheelbase of 2,850 mm and short overhangs – 995 mm at the front and 960 mm at the rear. The total height is 1,635 mm and the width is 1,895 mm (without exterior mirrors). In terms of external dimensions and space requirements, the model lies between the NX and the RX.

In the side view, the voluminous area around the front wheels catches the eye, while the rear wheels are offset to the rear. The contrasting shapes and eye-catching surfaces of the doors create a seamless visual transition from the front to the rear.

As with the recently introduced new RX, the familiar diabolo grille is more deeply integrated into the overall front design, creating a stronger three-dimensional effect. Since the electric powertrain requires less cooling air than a combustion engine, the familiar radiator grille was dispensed with. Instead, the area is kept in the body color. The slim headlights and blackened bumper corners reinforce the central spindle shape and provide a distinctive BEV look.

The newly designed, extremely narrow headlight units fit seamlessly into the spindle body. While the daytime running lights reflect the characteristic Lexus L-shape, the main headlights and turn signals are more discreet.

The BEV character of the new RZ is also expressed in the cool high-tech look of the rear end. The split roof spoiler extends the design to the rear and also contributes to driving stability. The LED light strip, which spans the entire width of the vehicle, has become a hallmark of Lexus design. In the RZ, it stretches with a geometric pattern around the muscular rear end and has an exceptionally thin middle area, which clearly highlights the new LEXUS lettering. At 1,627 mm, the track is 15 mm wider at the rear than at the front, which further underlines the rich look of the vehicle.

The low drag coefficient (Cd = 0.263) of the new Lexus RZ makes a significant contribution to engine efficiency. The shape of the cab ensures an even airflow around the vehicle, while the split rear spoiler contributes to handling and stability in straight-ahead driving and crosswinds without increasing drag.

Another factor in reducing air resistance is the fully covered underbody. The ribbed surface in the front improves stability at high speeds, while the rear part has fins that direct air from the wheels to the rear. The small radiator grille opening at the front is equipped with flaps that close automatically when no cooling air is required.

The Lexus RZ's distinctive exterior colors include the new Polar Metallic, inspired by the blue of the sky, and the striking copper red. Also available are obsidian grey, iridium silver, graphite black and titanium white. The colours titanium white, obsidian grey, iridium silver and copper red are produced with the help of advanced painting technology. Pigment particles and metal flakes are compacted in micro-thin layers, resulting in a deeper, glossier finish and stronger contrasts.

The RZ is also available in a new two-tone paintwork, in which the bonnet, pillars and roof are painted in black contrasting paint. Here the colors copper red, polar blue, obsidian gray / black are available.

The Lexus RZ's distinctive exterior colors include the new Polar Metallic, inspired by the blue of the sky, and the striking copper red. Also available are obsidian grey, iridium silver, graphite black and titanium white. The colours titanium white, obsidian grey, iridium silver and copper red are produced with the help of advanced painting technology. Pigment particles and metal flakes are compacted in micro-thin layers, resulting in a deeper, glossier finish and stronger contrasts.

The RZ is also available in a new two-tone paintwork, in which the bonnet, pillars and roof are painted in black contrasting paint. Here the colors copper red, polar blue, obsidian gray / black are available.

Giving the Lexus RZ the essential qualities of the Lexus Driving Signature – confidence, control and comfort – was the top priority in the development of the new model. In addition, it was important to exploit typical BEV advantages such as fast response and high precision in the best possible way. Lexus has drawn on its many years of experience with the electrification of vehicle powertrains, dating back to the first RX 400h with hybrid drive in 2004.

The new RZ adds a BEV dimension to the Lexus Driving Signature: a sophisticated, linear and reassuring response, as well as a pleasant sense of control and connection with the vehicle. This makes driving both comfortable and exciting, even for people who are not used to driving an electric car.

Chief engineer Takashi Watanabe and his team used the "The Natural" principle as the development concept: The goal was a natural driving experience – and thus a plus in driving quality. The optional steer-by-wire system "One Motion Grip" and the precise DIRECT4 all-wheel drive reliably convert the driver's inputs.

Reinforcements of the vehicle structure increase weight, which in turn affects fuel consumption and driving dynamics. Lexus has therefore reduced the weight of the frame with the help of materials and manufacturing processes. This ensures that the range is maintained without compromising the rigidity of the body. In particular, the mass of the higher parts has been reduced in order to maintain the low centre of gravity of the vehicle and to avoid rolling movements of the body in curves.

For example, lightweight 1,470 MPa steel is used for central roof reinforcement and a patchwork material for reinforcing the front and middle columns. The bonnet is made of aluminum, and the panels of doors and wheel arches, as well as the strips on the tailgate, are made of lightweight synthetic resin.

The battery-electric powertrain produces less noise, but this makes road and ambient noise more perceptible. The engineers and designers of the RZ have attached great importance to a quiet and quiet interior. A three-part strategy was implemented: noise frequencies were specifically controlled, certain noises were completely prevented from entering the interior, and special attention was paid to noise comfort in the rear seats.

For example, an all-round seal of the bonnet prevents the air from escaping through cracks. In addition, the internal noise insulation of the dashboard has been reinforced to reduce the distance to the surrounding parts and to improve the insulation and absorption of noise.

While driving, the large roof area is one of the main sources of disturbing noise. A new film contributes to the damping of vibrations, which makes the roof structure stiffer and noticeably reduces noise and vibrations. Other measures include foam coating at the base of the front and middle pillars, acoustic glazing in the front and rear doors, as well as inserts and insulation materials in the dashboard, windscreen, bonnet, fenders and wheel arches.

A new version of Active Sound Control is also used in the data center, which transmits noise-cancelling frequencies into the interior via the audio loudspeakers.

The new E-Axle drive technology is being used for the first time in the data center – on the front and rear axles. This is a compact, modular component consisting of an electric motor, a transmission and a control unit and is arranged between the driven wheels. The two E-axles work with the DIRECT4 all-wheel control to adapt traction and power distribution to the respective driving conditions.

The E-Axle technology works quietly, efficiently and precisely. The front electric motor delivers 150 kW, the rear 80 kW, the total output is 230 kW. Depending on wheel size and vehicle specification, power consumption is between 16.8 and 18.7 kWh per 100 km (WLTP, combined). Both motors offer a high power density thanks to an optimized rotor and stator design. Their compact dimensions also contribute to the packaging of the vehicle, helping to create more space in the interior as well as in the trunk while accommodating the EV battery. (RZ 450e power consumption (battery capacity 71.4 kWh), system output 230 kW (313 hp): 18.3–16.9 kWh/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km, electric range (EAER): 404 – 440 km. Values according to WLTP test procedure)

DIRECT4 is an exclusive Lexus technology that continuously controls traction on all four wheels and distributes drive power automatically and seamlessly. This results in comfortable power delivery and stable handling; in addition, the feeling of connection between driver and vehicle is strengthened.

DIRECT4 uses ECU sensors to detect and evaluate factors such as vehicle speed, steering angle and G-forces. From this data, the system calculates the appropriate drive torque for each E-axle to maximize grip and traction. The torque distribution between the front and rear axles can be adjusted within milliseconds – faster than any mechanical system.

Torque is distributed to the front and rear axles depending on driving conditions, giving the vehicle exceptional stability and tilt control. When accelerating, the vehicle leans less backwards, when braking less strongly forward. The result: fewer head movements among the occupants.

The Lexus RZ's newly developed battery-electric powertrain offers a practical balance of performance and efficiency. The key to this is the optimally dimensioned battery, which has an ideal balance of range, efficiency, cost and size/packaging. In developing the powertrain, Lexus benefited from the experience and technological advantages it has gained over the past two decades in the development of hybrid-electric vehicles.

Lexus has developed a compact high-voltage system circuit in which a transaxle transmission and an inverter are integrated into the e-axle units. An energy storage unit (ESU) performs the functions of charging, power supply and power distribution. The circuit has been equipped with noise filters to improve electromagnetic compatibility and avoid interference to the audio system.

The permanent magnet motors have a high power density and a speed of 17,000 revolutions per minute. The inverter achieves a high volumetric efficiency and at the same time enables a high current output. Thanks to its compact dimensions and frame-like design, it could be integrated into the transaxle transmission. The motors are mounted on a symmetrical three-point aluminum mounting system, which contributes to comfort, handling, stability and quiet operation.

The use of active air flaps in the radiator grille reduces air resistance; the flaps close automatically when they are not needed. Channels in the front grille direct the air flow to the radiator even when the flaps are closed. Cooling performance is provided by a single large-diameter fan.

The battery consists of 96 cells and has a capacity of 71.4 kWh. Lexus guarantees that the battery of the data center retains at least 70 percent of its capacity after ten years. At the same time, however, the company assumes that capacity will still be at least 90 percent at this time. This is ensured by a series of quality and performance measures based on Lexus' many years of experience with battery management technologies.

The variants of the RZ with 20-inch wheels achieve a range of around 395 km in the combined WLTP cycle. In the variants with 18-inch wheels, the range increases by about 40 km. In the case of a fully charged battery, this information is valid until it is completely drained.

As with any battery-powered electric vehicle, the actual range may differ from the WLTP reference range. The actual range of the vehicle depends on individual factors, such as driving style and speed, battery charge level and temperature, use of air conditioning and type of tires of the vehicle.

Both the lithium-ion battery and the propulsion system use a durable, highly resistant LLC coolant that regulates temperature in a highly efficient manner and helps keep battery performance stable even under high loads, such as high speed or repeated fast charging. Battery cooling and vehicle air conditioning are interconnected, which ensures a high level of interior comfort and at the same time contributes to a longer battery life. The battery is cooled from below; the uniform flow of the coolant ensures even better cooling performance. The coolant is located in a separate chamber so that there is no direct contact with the battery in the event of a leak.

In colder temperatures, a battery heater can be activated when charging the vehicle. This uses the heating of the air conditioning system and switches on automatically when DC charging. The RZ is equipped with a compact and lightweight 11 kW on-board charger. Charging the battery takes about six and a half hours for three-phase AC charging and about ten hours for single-phase charging. At a DC fast charging station, the battery can be charged to 30 percent in about 80 minutes.

The AHB-G (Active Hydraulic Booster) brake system of the Lexus RZ has a high-performance pump motor that builds up brake pressure when needed. The brake force distribution between the front and rear axles is controlled independently of each other, which ensures comfortable handling and high stability when braking. Vehicle Braking Posture Control varies the distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels depending on the pedal pressure and the vertical movements of the suspension.

The chassis supports an exhilarating driving experience in line with the Lexus Driving Signature. The suspension contributes to precise guidance and natural and stable handling, complementing the basic dynamic advantages of the electric platform: high rigidity, low centre of gravity, dynamically balanced chassis and low moment of inertia.

MacPherson struts are used at the front, while the rear suspension consists of double wishbones with trailing arms, whose geometry is precisely matched to the direct acceleration of electric cars. The optimized shock absorbers reduce unwanted vibrations and vary their damping force according to the frequencies transmitted by the road surface – they are softer in the high frequency range, harder in the lower frequency range.

At market launch, the RZ is equipped with conventional rack-and-pinion steering with electromechanical power steering. This has an intermediate shaft that absorbs vibrations and provides a smooth steering feel. The three-spoke steering wheel ensures a comfortable and secure grip.

The RZ is the first Lexus model to use the new "One Motion Grip" steer-by-wire system. The system is currently in the final coordination, the market launch is planned for 2025.

With the One Motion Grip System, there is no mechanical connection and no steering column; instead, the driver's input from the steering wheel is sent to the wheels via an electrical control system. The result is an immediate response and more precise steering control.

The driver also notices lower vibrations when driving on uneven roads, stable control and correction in strong crosswinds, and excellent straight-line stability on bevelled surfaces.

The optional "One Motion Grip" system includes a new yoke steering wheel reminiscent of aircraft controls. The special shape of the steering wheel was developed with the help of Lexus' Takumi drivers; thanks to their feedback, all components could be refined to provide the driver with the best feel, feel and feedback.

The new steering wheel requires less steering effort; an encroachment of the hand is not necessary. This allows for smooth lane changes on the highway, more comfortable driving on winding roads and easier maneuvering in confined spaces. The steering ratio automatically adapts to the speed of the vehicle. The steering characteristics also change depending on the selected driving mode; the Sport mode gives a sharper and more powerful steering feel. Unwanted vibrations from tires and brakes are suppressed, but at the same time the steering gives a precise feeling for the road surface.

The yoke steering wheel has no upper section. This improves the driver's view of the instruments and the road. The Lexus designers took advantage of this fact and placed the displays higher and farther away than would be possible with a conventional steering wheel. This reduces eye movements and helps the driver to focus his attention on the road. In addition, the new steering wheel design gives the driver more legroom and makes it easier to get in and out.

For the cockpit of the new RZ, Lexus has further developed the Tazuna concept. The concept is inspired by how a rider controls a horse with minimal movements of the reins – the meaning of "tazuna" in Japanese. The steering wheel position and the precise arrangement of instruments, controls and displays mean that only minor hand and eye movements are required to operate the vehicle's functions. With the optional "One Motion Grip" steering to be introduced at a later date, the benefits of the Tazuna cockpit concept can be fully exploited in the future

The optimised arrangement of instruments, head-up display and 14-inch multimedia display, as well as the instrument panel moved downwards, improve forward visibility; this effect will be further enhanced by the new shape of the One Motion Grip steering wheel, contributing to the core characteristics of the Lexus Driving Signature – comfort, confidence and control in all situations.

The open appearance of the interior is enhanced by the narrower and lowered instrument panel. Additional space was also created by moving the front passenger airbag to the rear and by a new air conditioning system, which has an integrated ventilation element in the middle of the instrument panel.

In the slim and elegant upper area of the centre console there is a storage compartment; the cover can be opened on both sides and can therefore be easily operated by both the driver and the front passenger. Also housed in the console are cup holders, USB ports, a 12 V socket and, depending on the equipment, a wireless charging cradle. Under the console there is additional storage space, which is large enough for a tissue box or the user manual.

For the interior, there are three colour combinations to choose from, each creating a different ambience. The storm grey upholstery is combined with black interior trim and a Solis White cover for the upper part of the doors and armrests, ensuring a bright, clean and modern look. Alpaca brown seat covers combined with black trim create a luxurious and modern effect, while the combination of grey upholstery and black trim provides a cool, uniform finish.

A new Tsuyasumi embellishment is available for the console: an anthracite surface with a subtle, shiny grain. The effect is created by superimposing numerous fine layers; this advanced film technology is monitored by Lexus' Takumi craftsmen.

Ambient lighting with 64 colours and 14 themes creates an atmospheric atmosphere. The colour and brightness of the individual luminaires can be adjusted via the central display. A new in-egg lighting effect casts a pattern of light and shadow on the door panels, creating different effects depending on the time of day and external lighting conditions.\

The new comfort heater is located at knee height in front of the driver and front passenger – under the steering column and the lower instrument panel. In contrast to convection heating, it works with infrared radiation and consumes about eight percent less energy.

As part of the Lexus Climate Concierge, in addition to the seat heaters and heated steering wheel, comfort heating helps the interior heat up faster; the heat wraps itself around the legs like a blanket. The comfort heater works silently and does not cause draughts. It has an automatic backup in case someone comes into contact with it; the temperature of the cover is automatically lowered to 43°C. Just like the panoramic roof, it also relieves the air conditioning system and thus contributes to energy saving.

Standard on board is a premium audio system with ten speakers, tuned to reproduce clear mid and high tones as well as rich, clear bass. As with the Mark Levinson Premium Surround System, the amplifier can reproduce high-resolution sound sources beyond the information contained in CD files. A 20 cm subwoofer is housed in the tailgate.

The new Lexus RZ is equipped with the advanced active safety and driver assistance systems of the third generation Lexus Safety System+. Thanks to improved and additional functions, they detect even more potential hazards, warn the driver and, if necessary, assist with steering, braking and accelerating to avoid collisions or mitigate the consequences of an impact. In addition, they relieve the driver and make driving less strenuous.

In addition to the Lexus Safety System +, the new RZ offers numerous other functions that support easy and safe use of the vehicle – from automatic parking and blind spot monitoring to safe opening of doors.