Lexus Australia has confirmed its ground-breaking RZ 450e SUV – the luxury brand’s first dedicated battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and the next step in the Lexus Electrified vision – will be sold here from next year.
Due to arrive in mid-2023, the RZ 450e showcases advanced technologies and innovation developed through more than 15 years of Lexus expertise in electric motor, battery and energy management garnered through its hybrid models, with the first launched in 2006.
“Our customers have been excited by the RZ ever since its global reveal back in April,” Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas said.
“The RZ expands our portfolio of electrified vehicles, moving Lexus ever closer to our ultimate goal of a sustainable society. This exciting zero-emissions luxury Lexus also evolves the Lexus Driving Signature of intuitive, smooth and faithful driving performance, now with exceptional refinement and quietness.”
The RZ breaks new ground as the first BEV from Lexus built from a clean-sheet design. It uses a specific (e-TNGA) platform that allows the batteries and motor to be placed low to the ground for optimal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.
The new all-wheel-drive DIRECT4 control system uses acceleration, cornering-speed and steering-angle information, to automatically adjust front-rear torque delivery and braking force to all four wheels to maximise grip, stability and comfort.
Customers can expect a single-charge driving range of approximately 450km thanks to the use of high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, Lexus-first silicon carbide elements in the inverters, and the incorporation of low-loss technologies.
The spacious interior is based on the human-centred tazuna concept of building the cabin around the driver, with intuitive placement of controls for ease of operation as well as welcoming all occupants with thoughtful appointments.
The RZ 450e takes the Lexus Electrified portfolio to nine vehicles, joining six hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs), the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle (PHEV) and the fully electric UX 300e (BEV).
Final RZ Australian specifications and pricing will be announced closer to its introduction next year.
