- A new era begins for Lexus Battery EVs and the Lexus Electrified vision
- The all-new RZ brings a unique Lexus driving experience based on the Lexus Electrified vision.
- Using a new all-wheel drive system called DIRECT4
- RZ offers drivers a refined, human-centred driving experience.
Lexus has unveiled the details of the new “RZ”, the luxury brand’s first globally available pure Battery EV (BEV) model.
Since the launch of the RX400h in 2005, Lexus has been a pioneer of electrification within the luxury market. As with the first RX hybrid model, our engineers have imbued our hybrid vehicles with an excellent driving identity and environmental performance.
In 2019, Lexus’ fundamental approach toward vehicle electrification evolved thanks to the Lexus Electrified vision. Lexus aims to invigorate all guests’ authentic love for driving exhilaration, and in doing so, will broaden its Lexus Electrified portfolio of hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), battery electric vehicle (BEV), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) products to exceed the needs and expectations of a more diverse set of luxury buyers.
The portfolio expansion will move Lexus toward another essential goal: The realisation of a sustainable global society. Lexus will contribute to the realisation of a carbon-neutral society by offering a full line-up of BEVs in all categories by 2030. Five years later, Lexus seeks to attain 100 percent BEV sales globally.
To meet these challenges, Lexus will rigorously improve its products, along with the expertise of its personnel, by repeating “drive and fix” development at Toyota Technical Centre Shimoyama (hereinafter referred to as “TTCS”), Lexus’ new operational base.
As Lexus’ first globally available and dedicated BEV model, the new RZ marks Lexus’ transition into a BEV-centred brand and embodies the unique Lexus vehicle design and driving experience brought on by advanced electrification technology.
For driving performance, the use of a BEV-specific platform (e-TNGA), as well as a lightweight and highly rigid body, has greatly evolved the fundamental performance of the vehicle by achieving optimal weight distribution through ideal placement of the battery and motor. In addition, the adoption of a new steering control and Steer-by-Wire system, along with the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system using electrification technology, enables vehicle control that is faithful to the driver’s intention.
An exhilarating driving experience is realised, making the RZ feel like a true extension of its driver. Furthermore, we pursued the creation of an audio sound that seamlessly conveys vehicle condition changes to the driver. These efforts are being carried out at TTCS, Lexus’ new development base, in order to enhance the uniquely Lexus driving flavour, the Lexus Driving Signature.
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 all-wheel drive system that achieves quick and linear response according to driver input.
