(ORDO NEWS) — This is the first of Lexus’ planned electric vehicles to hit the market. Its release is in line with the brand’s strategy to phase out petrol and diesel engines in new cars by 2035.
The Japanese are switching to electric cars belatedly, but they are trying to do it very quickly and abruptly. Lexus RZ 450e will be the first harbinger of the premium brand’s full electrification by 2035
The Lexus RZ is built on the new e-TNGA platform designed specifically for electric vehicles. This platform was first showcased in December 2021 when Toyota unveiled several concept models based on it, including several prototypes similar to the upcoming Lexus.
The platform includes a steering-by-wire system, an electrified all-wheel drive system and several parts designed to improve aerodynamic performance. The RZ will also have a full range of advanced safety features thanks to the Lexus Safety System+.
What will be the electric Lexus
The RZ is very similar in size to the Lexus RX model – one of the most popular models on the market today – which corresponds to the nomenclature of names.
It will have 18- and 20-inch wheels, a 71.4 kWh battery and two motors (150 kW on the front axle and 80 kW on the rear). According to the automaker, the range on a single charge for the new model will be from 400 to 450 km.
The Lexus RZ’s all-wheel drive system uses sensors to control the front and rear electric motors, allowing each to deploy from 0 to 100 percent of its power depending on demand and real-time dynamics.
This drive force distribution control system, called Direct4, should improve handling stability, traction control and driving dynamics.
For example, when the steering wheel is turned, it transfers the drive force to the front axle for better handling. This force is transferred to the rear axle when the wheel flattens out to optimize acceleration and body roll out of a corner.
Battery charging time varies by region and power source. However, fast charging will be available in most markets, and the RZ can be recharged in as little as four hours thanks to a smart charging system.
Lexus has yet to reveal pricing for the new RZ, but has promised to release that information closer to launch. The first model, the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, will hit showrooms in late 2022.
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