Lexus is a company long associated with premium cars and hybrid technology, but its latest model points to a fully electric future. The RZ 450e is a five-seat SUV and the first Lexus that has been designed exclusively as a fully electric vehicle. The Japanese company has already outlined its plans to become a 100 percent electric brand by 2030.
The exterior design of the RZ 450e retains a degree of familiarity with existing Lexus models, with a shape that blends sharp creases and subtle curves. Famous for its large front grilles, the RZ has far less need for cooling but retains a striking appearance nonetheless. The area is typically painted to match the rest of the bodywork, but as an option, buyers can choose a two-tone scheme that extends the contrasting black area of the roof down into the bonnet and the nose of the car. Ultra-slim headlights feature the Lexus L-motif in the daytime running lights.
As standard, the Lexus runs on 18-inch wheels, while the higher-spec models get 20-inch wheels. The RZ 450e uses the new e-TNGA platform architecture that will be seen in other models and is similar to what underpins the forthcoming Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra.
A 71.4kWh battery is integrated into the chassis floor, and Lexus says that it is sufficient for a driving range of around 400 kilometres per charge. Lexus expects the RZ’s battery to retain more than 90% of its capacity within that timeframe, thanks to a series of measures to safeguard quality and performance, founded on Lexus’ long experience with battery management technologies. It will be available with a new Direct4 all-wheel-drive transmission and a total power output of 313hp and 435Nm. A top speed of 160km/h and 0-100km/h acceleration of 5.6 seconds means the RZ 450e will have brisk performance.