Lexus has long held on to the hybrid system as the only electrification. That is now changing. The brand’s second e-car will be available soon: after the UX 300e, Toyota’s premium offshoot is launching the RZ 450e. The 4.80 meter long vehicle should roll to customers at the end of the year.
Like its close relative, the Toyota bZ4X, the Lexus RZ 450e stands on a platform developed for electric cars. Visually, it differs from the rather angular drawn Toyota twin. Typical for Lexus is the Diabolo radiator grille, the design of which was adapted for the electric vehicle. The so-called E-Axle drive technology is used for the first time in the RZ 450e. Motor, transmission and control unit are integrated in one compact component. The two electric axles work together with the all-wheel drive to adapt traction and power distribution to the respective driving conditions. The total output is 230 kW/313 hp. The 71.4 large battery should be good for a range of 400 kilometers, the average consumption is 18.1 kWh. The top speed is limited to 160 km/h, and the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h should take 5.6 seconds.Steer-by-wire steering with YokeInstead of conventional steering, the RZ 450e has steer-by-wire -System. The steering movements are sent to the wheels via an electrical control system. A steering wheel in the futuristic “Yoke” design is available for an extra charge; here the hands are not on a closed ring, but on two side horns. In terms of safety, the RZ 450e comes up with a monitor, among other things, that checks driving behavior for signs of tiredness or distraction. The new proactive driving assistant uses the front camera to determine the angle of curves and adjusts the steering when starting and turning. The electromechanical door opening is connected to the Blind Spot Assist. If the system detects an approaching cyclist, unlocking the door is prevented. Lexus has not yet announced prices. However, the RZ 450e should be at least 10,000 euros more expensive than the Toyota bZ4X, which starts at just under 50,000 euros. (SPX)
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