Toyota Electrification Expands with Lexus RZ & High-Performance EVs
Toyota laid out a detailed strategy to change over to EVs, and produce Lexus models that will satisfy many drivers.
Global President of Toyota, Akio Toyoda, recently spoke to the press about the company’s electrification future. Toyoda revealed the automaker has made strides already to keep up with the rapidly changing market. Most notably, was the news that Toyota and Lexus are committed to carbon reduction and neutrality. As such, they have put together a plan of action that will expand their fleet with 30 new EV models.
The company has been exploring and testing a number of e-mobility options; and will continue to do so to fine tune performance. It is a smart move to diversify and explore all EV technology possibilities rather than putting all eggs in one basket. First on the new agenda is utilizing and developing more battery electric vehicles (BEVs). With BEVs having spent time on the market, it offers reliable and tested technology. Toyoda added that battery EVs “represent one of the most promising options.”
Wanting their move into carbon neutrality to be inclusive to a diverse market, Lexus and Toyota plan to electrify a number of options. Cars, trucks, and SUVs should fit customer needs from daily driver, to performance rides, and even off-road capable rigs. This picture represents some of the upcoming passenger and commercial Lexus and Toyota EVs.
But one of the most surprising pieces of news is the expansion of existing lineups. Lexus has over 30 models of engine-only vehicles; including hybrid electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in over 90 countries and regions. Toyota currently has 100 models of engine-only vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell electric vehicles in more than 170 countries and regions.
Toyota will expand carbon-neutral vehicle options and will offer 30 battery EV models to Toyota and Lexus fleets by 2030. With this expanded BEV lineup, Toyota and Lexus will offer BEVs globally in all segments. sedans, SUVs, K-Cars, commercial vehicles and other segments.
“Specifically, we plan to roll out 30 battery EV models by 2030, globally offering a full lineup of battery EVs in the passenger and commercial segments,” Toyoda adds.
To that point, Toyota gave us a good look at the refreshed and charged fleet. Toyota’s bZ series–which stands for “beyond ZERO”–aims to deliver performance, style, and the pure pleasure of the road.
In mid-2022, the Toyota bZ4X compact crossover will be one of the first all-electric ‘Yotas to hit dealers. Subaru worked with Toyota to to ensure the best ride quality for the model. But the Toyota electric fleet is easy on the eyes.
As the Lexus RZ 450e is expected to lead the EV way, it is an interesting stand out. Capturing Lexus’ futuristic side tastefully, it feels new and exciting. But it remains distinctly Lexus. It isn’t over the top–which is not easy given the demands of the overall design. The Lexus RX 450e balances cutting-edge EV tech with a classic great looks. A strong fusion of new and classic Lexus. Combining a modern but sporty sedan with a smaller crossover is a smart way to boost capability on the road. Loaded with luxe details make the RZ 450e a distinctly Lexus alternative to the Toyota bZ4X compact crossover.
“Lexus strives to be the brand that people who know authenticity choose at the end of the day … [It] has pursued unique styling and a unique driving signature, and, as a pioneer in hybrid electric technology, it has refined its electrification technology.” he says.
Anticipating sales of 3.5 million BEVs globally by 2030, they are confident that Lexus will be 100% electric in Europe, North America, and China by 2030. Leading the way is the Lexus RZ-F, slated to debut in 2023. But other BEV nameplates will retain the Lexus Driving Signature.
A new Sports Battery EV will be a pivotal model for the brand. Flexing sports car chops and lithe looks, it will embody the Lexus driving experience. All-electric, the Lexus RZ-F will have the speed, a lot of pick up, and expansive cruising range afforded by the Sports Battery.
As a concept the Lexus RZ models look solid, shapely, and handsome. Although, truthfully, we’re also intrigued by the Toyota Sports EV concept. And we need this in the Lexus stable as an F Performance, please.
So far, Toyota and Lexus seem to be headed in the right direction. They aren’t rushing at the expense of performance or detail. The timeline is doable. Interest is piqued. Lexus nailed something special with the electrified RZ-F, and their reputation is built on quality, so we do have high expectations.
It is a staggering commitment to EV, and we look forward to how Lexus and Toyota will navigate this strange new world. They promise that their scope will include an “EV for everyone.” Lexus has done well at giving drivers what they want. But ultimately, if Toyota and Lexus build electric–will they come? This energy helped land the company ahead of the curve with the Prius. And in that spirit, the company has invested in a number of electrification and design endeavors to make the ride and technology new and genuinely exciting.
If you’d like to see the presser, you can check it out below.
Photos: Lexus
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