Lexus RZ450e Aims To Catapult Brand Into the Future

First of Many

As Lexus prepares to move forward into an all-electric future, it goes without saying that it must create compelling products to convince folks to make the move from ICE vehicles to an EV. Its first attempt at that is this - the recently-revealed RZ450e, the luxury brand’s first global battery EV. Lexus and Toyota have long been pioneers in the world of electrification with their hybrid offerings, but will that be enough to make the RZ450e a truly compelling product?

Photos: Lexus

Respecting Everything

"We believe that Lexus, an established luxury automaker, should continue pursuing the creation of exciting cars while respecting nature and the global environment to achieve a carbon-neutral society," said Takashi Watanabe, chief engineer, 'Lexus Electrified,' Lexus International. "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. DIRECT4, the core technology of 'Lexus Electrified,' is an all-wheel-drive system that achieves quick and linear response according to driver input. We will continue to take on the challenge of providing customers with new experiences and a uniquely Lexus BEV driving experience."

Photos: Lexus

True Experience?

Lexus says that the RZ's dedicated e-TNGA EV platform has enhanced the fundamental performance of the vehicle by achieving optimal weight distribution through the ideal placement of the battery and motor. In addition, the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, new steering control, and the available Steer by Wire system "embody the unique Lexus vehicle design and driving experience."

Photos: Lexus

Reasonable Numbers

In terms of performance, the RZ450e utilizes two electric motors - one on both the front and rear axles - with a combined output of 308 horsepower. It utilizes a 65.6-kWh liquid-cooled battery pack, which will provide somewhere between 200-225 miles of range, a reasonable but unimpressive number in today's world.

Photos: Lexus

Efficient but Adequate?

Lexus says that it purposely limited the size of the battery in the RZ450e with an eye toward keeping weight down and maximizing efficiency. In fact, the brand claims that the RZ gets 15 to 20 percent more mileage per kWh than its closest competitors, which is impressive. But it remains to be seen if customers feel like 225 miles of range is adequate.

Photos: Lexus

Finding a Balance

Charging numbers aren't terribly impressive either, to be honest, with a max DC rate of 150 kW. The onboard charger is capable of 6.6 kW - a bit lower than the competition's 10-11 kW - which means that it will take around 11 hours to fully charge at Level 2 speeds. Lexus claims that it was more focused on providing a balance between range, efficiency, and performance here, though it hasn't provided any acceleration times as of yet.

Photos: Lexus

Limited Quantities

To be fair, the RZ450e isn't the groundbreaking EV that some are waiting for, but more of a first step in the brand's major transition that combines ICE-like styling with a more fun EV driving experience. Lexus isn't planning on selling a ton of them either, with just 4,900 units slated for the U.S. in 2023. Depending on pricing, it could prove to be a popular choice for those that can charge at home and don't drive long distances regularly, yet also don't want an EV with polarizing styling, either.

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about the Lexus RZ450e right here at ClubLexus.com.

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