Unveiled: Lexus RZ450e

Lexus has introduced its first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle: the all-new Lexus RZ450e. The vehicle is the latest electrified model in the Lexus lineup, which includes seven hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars. The company’s electric vehicle portfolio expansion is part of its goal to achieve a sustainable global society by offering 100% battery-electric vehicles globally by 2035.

The Lexus RZ450e features a new lightweight e-TNGA steel platform, marking a first for Lexus. The lightweight platform provides stability and ride comfort by placing the 96-cell lithium-ion battery pack developed by Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (PPES) under the vehicle floor. It also creates a low center of gravity and inertia movement, enhancing stability and ride comfort.

The battery delivers a total system horsepower rating of 308 and an estimated 0-60 acceleration time of 5.0 seconds. The RZ 450e has an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 220 miles and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 115/98/107 (city/highway/combined) when equipped with 18-inch wheels. When utilizing 20-inch wheels, it has an EPA-estimated MPGe of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range of up to 196 miles.

The vehicle features a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system with two high-output, high-torque eAxle units that each drive a wheel set. The front MacPherson strut type suspension and rear trailing arm multi-link configuration are both specifically tuned and located to enhance handling balance, roll posture, and ride comfort. The new Active Hydraulic Booster-G (AHB-G) braking system works with the DIRECT4 system and RZ’s regenerative motor capability to reduce vehicle speed while improving vehicle posture.

The Lexus RZ450e will be available in two grades at launch: Premium and Luxury. It comes with a suite of standard features, including LSS+ 3.0, Lexus Interface with 14-inch touchscreen, and DIRECT4 AWD. The interior of the RZ features a panorama glass roof and Shadow Illumination, creating an airy and comfortable atmosphere.

The Lexus RZ450e will be available for a starting price of $59,650 MSRP. The vehicle is expected to compete with other luxury electric SUVs such as the Audi e-tron, the Tesla Model Y, and the Jaguar I-PACE. The RZ 450e is a welcome addition to the electric vehicle market, and it represents Lexus’ commitment to sustainability and innovation.