since 1976
since 1976
With the all-new, all-electric Lexus RZ 450e, Lexus realizes the Lexus Electrified vision first announced with the LF-30 all-electric concept car at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. The Lexus Electrified vision targets a fundamental leap in vehicle performance, handling, control, and driver enjoyment through electrification technologies.
The RZ is the brand’s first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that brings a dynamic driving experience and distinctive design focused on performance. More importantly, it moves Lexus towards the essential goal of contributing to a carbon-neutral society with a range of only BEVs by 2035.
As the first BEV developed from the start to be fully electric, the RZ draws on the brand’s long experience in electrified mobility, along with Toyota Motor Corporation’s leadership in electrification technologies, particularly Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) technologies. In 2005, this enabled Lexus to introduce the world’s first luxury HEV, the RX400h.
The RZ is, first and foremost, a Lexus, retaining all the fine qualities of performance and craftsmanship associated with the brand since 1989. More than just a vehicle which uses an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine (ICE), the RZ uses electrification technology as a means to enhance basic vehicle performance and driving pleasure.
“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. 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. With the transition to BEV, we pursued a special design with functional simplicity featuring the evolution of the spindle grill to the new Lexus spindle body architecture and a cockpit space incorporating the Tazuna concept focusing on driver operation. We will continue to take on the challenge of providing customers with new experiences and a uniquely Lexus BEV driving experience.”
TAKASHI WATANABE, CHIEF ENGINEER LEXUS ELECTRIFIED LEXUS INTERNATIONAL
With the RZ, Lexus has taken the design freedoms offered by BEVs to create a vehicle that looks significantly different from conventional SUVs, and which represents the Lexus “Next Chapter” design.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The design concept is “seamless E-motion,” expressing a powerful character and seamless acceleration. The result is a new, simple form that captures the spirit of technological evolution, function, and performance.
The basic inspiration for RZ design development was the cheetah, and this thinking carried through to the exterior design. The RZ’s body evokes the dynamism of the fast cat when it is sprinting: nose tucked down, tail high, rear legs digging in for grip and propulsion. This is seen in the RZ’s nose-to-tail stance, sinewy flanks, and the way the rear tyres appear to be kicking down at the ground. The body volume appears to push the rear tyres rearward and the rear wheel arches, like those at the front, are distinctively muscular.
Airflow management and aerodynamic efficiency are clearly apparent in the RZ’s body mass, which has a dynamic form that visualizes airflow. The ability to cut cleanly through the air is affirmed by the front grille shutters, cabin centreline and tapered surfaces, the sleek door axis expression which runs horizontally along the vehicle’s sides, and the rear roof spoiler.
The frontal design powerfully distinguishes the RZ as a BEV. With no internal combustion engine, the bonnet has been lowered and the intake openings have been reduced. The spindle grille that has been a signature feature of Lexus models for the past decade has evolved 3-dimensionally on the RZ.
Even though Lexus’ spindle grille is gone, the RZ is instantly recognizable as a Lexus because this signature feature has been amplified into a spindle body shape. This creates a solid mass expressing a single surface which reaches from the nose towards the body. The spindle mass is accentuated by using body colour where there would traditionally be a black grille mesh area, by blacking out the body either side of this, and by giving more emphasis to the fender shape. The greater design flexibility has also allowed more muscular front wings to be produced.
The new-design headlight units are unified with the spindle body. Ultra-slim, they give extra emphasis to the Lexus L-motif of the daytime running lights, while the principal headlight lamps and turn indicators are made less prominent.
The side profile of the RZ peaks towards the rear in a smooth silhouette. The sharp frontal design generates a sense of power and movement, while the condensed rear end affirms the car’s SUV qualities of comfortable space and strong driving capabilities. The long 2850 mm wheelbase adds to the impact of the design, expressing the low centre of gravity and excellent weight balance.
The rear end design of the RZ presents a cool, high-tech look. The roof spoiler has two separate elements, located at the outer edges of the body width immediately behind the C-pillars. The split spoiler extends the design’s rearward flow and contributes to the car’s stable performance.
The elongated light bar across the width of the rear door, a hallmark feature of Lexus design, has been given a sharp, minimalist look with the top and bottom made as thin as possible to give the impression of simplicity and precision.
Customers can choose from 6 exterior colours – which express E-MOTIONAL LUXURY. The sonic shades of the monotone range (Aether Me., Sonic Copper, Graphite Black GF., Sonic Quartz and Sonic Iridium) use an advanced paint technology in which pigment particles and metal flakes are highly compressed into micro-thin layers, contributing to deeper, more lustrous finish and stronger light and shade contrasts.
INSIDE THE RZ
For the interior of the first pure BEV for Lexus, the designers aimed to provide a human-centred design and technologies. The cockpit is an evolution of Lexus’ Tazuna concept, inspired by the way a rider can intuitively control a horse using just small adjustments of the reins. It brings together the driver’s position at the wheel and a precise arrangement of meters, controls and displays to create a space where the driver needs only to make small movements of the hand and eye to operate the vehicles.
The layout of the controls and information sources – 14-inch centre multimedia display, 7-inch TFT meters, multi-information display and head-up display – require minimum hand and eye movement to reach, operate and read, helping keep the driver’s attention on the road ahead. The layout and shape of the cockpit also guide the driver’s line of vision forwards.
While the driver uses shift-by-wire paddle shifters to select the coasting deceleration amount, a dial type shift knob is located on the centre console enables secure operation, contributing to a cockpit that allows minimal posture and line of sight changes from BEV system startup, through shifting and starting off. The dial is designed to provide an excellent tactile feel and snug fit when gripped, as well as an enhanced operation feel.
The RZ’s cabin is a minimalist, yet airy and maximally appointed luxury environment. Its spaciousness benefits from the compact powertrain with a low platform and the low bonnet allows for better front passenger forward visibility.
The seats feature Lexus’ global architecture frame design and are upholstered with “deep-hung” seams to promote more comfortable support and posture on long journeys. The integrated heaters have been redesigned to operate across the entire seat, with temperature adjusted for the shoulders, back and upper thigh areas. The rear seatbacks have a 2-stage recline function.
Sustainable Ultrasuede in black is standard for the seat upholstery, this high-quality suede effect synthetic leather offering high durability as well excellent tactile feel. A new Tsuyasumi ornamentation is used for the console, with a charcoal finish having subtle shiny veining like a natural cinder block. The effect is created through the overlaying of numerous delicate layers, a process using advanced film technology, overseen by Lexus’ Takumi craftspeople.
The Digital Rear view Mirror displays images from the reverse camera on the mirror display. This advanced mirror has advantages over conventional mirrors such as the view not being obstructed by the rear headrests or occupants’ heads, and visibility is also unaffected by night-time conditions.
The air-conditioning system comes with the Lexus Climate Concierge and S-Flow Control for efficient cooling throughout the cabin. The system discharges nanoe ions (nanoeX) which help to keep the air fresh as well as eliminate viruses, germs, and unpleasant smells.
The cabin atmosphere is enhanced by an ambient lighting system with a spectrum of 64 colours, grouped in 14 different themes to create the right mood for the journey. The colour and brightness of each lamp can be adjusted using the settings screen in the centre display.
The multimedia system includes a 13-speakers, Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound. Mark Levinson has been Lexus’ audio partner for a long time, specialising in tailoring sound systems to the interiors of each Lexus model.
For a more emotional drive, the RZ has Active Sound Control (ASC). This system produces driving sounds in accordance with the driving situation. The sound generated through the speakers reflect the drive mode and acceleration of the vehicle.
The cargo area is accessed via a wide powered tailgate. Without a spare wheel/tyre (but a repair kit is supplied), additional luggage volume is available. With the rear seats in use, the volume is 522 litres, expanding to 1,451 litres when the rear backrests are folded down.
BODY STRUCTURE & PLATFORM
The RZ is the first Lexus model to use the newly developed e-TNGA platform which allows for efficient packaging of electric drive system, reduced weight (compared to ICE platform), optimized mass placement and better rigidity.
Besides opening new freedoms in design, this new BEV-specific platform provides an inherently strong foundation on which to construct a vehicle with excellent body rigidity. Advanced techniques have been applied, including laser peening and laser screw welding, with extensive use of structural adhesive and short-pitch welding to increase the jointing area and gain higher rigidity.
High-rigidity foam is used in each corner of the back-door aperture to strengthen an area that is particularly susceptible to deformation. This also reduces noise and vibration. The rear of the vehicle has a double-annular frame, which helps the car settle after cornering or changing lanes. At the front, braces and thicker support pillars for the radiator suppress lateral deformation. Rigidity is further enhanced by suspension tower braces and front and rear performance dampers.
Reinforcing a vehicle’s structure increases weigh and to offset this gain, Lexus engineers used materials and methods to reduce the weight of the frame. Priority was given to reducing the mass of parts located higher in the vehicle, to preserve a low centre of gravity and suppress body roll when cornering.
For example, lightweight 1470 MPa steel is used for the centre roof reinforcement and a patchwork material for strengthening the front and centre pillar. The bonnet is made of aluminium and the door and wheel arch mouldings and back door garnish are light, moulded resin which uses less material but remains rigid and light.
Although a battery electric drivetrain produces significantly lower noise levels, its quiet performance makes noise from the road and the surroundings more noticeable to the occupants. To ensure the cabin environment would be calm and quiet, a 3-part strategy was formulated. This strategy aimed to control noise, prevent its entry into the cabin, and particular attention was given to the environment in the rear seats.
The measures to reduce noise and vibration include an all-round seal for the bonnet, which prevents airflow escaping through gaps, reducing disturbance and sound. Inside the RZ, the thickness of the dashboard inner silence has been gauged to reduce the gap between peripheral parts and achieve better noise insulation and absorption.
The large roof area is a primary source of noise when driving. To address this, a vibration-damping sheet has been added that makes the roof structure more rigid, with a significant impact on noise/vibration levels. Other measures include foam coating at the base of the front and centre pillars, acoustic glass in the front and rear doors and the placement of liners and insulation material in the cowl, dashboard, bonnet, wings, and wheel arches.
BEV SYSTEM
The RZ uses a lithium-ion battery pack in a stack comprising 96 cells, with a total capacity of 71.4 kWh. It is located entirely beneath the cabin and forms an integral part of the e-TNGA platform. Its position also contributes the car’s low centre of gravity.
Battery durability was a key consideration, the level of performance that could be expected after 10 years of driving. 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 of battery management technologies.
Efficient cooling is key to battery performance and durability. A long-life, high-resistance LLC coolant is used for both the lithium-ion battery pack and the BEV system. A Lexus-first, this controls the temperature in a highly efficient system that helps maintain stable battery output even under high loads, such as high-speed cruising or repeated rapid charging.
The battery cooling and the air-conditioning system work co-operatively, which enhances power performance, ensures cabin comfort, and supports longer battery life. The unit is cooled from the bottom with a uniform flow path size for the refrigerant, giving even better cooling performance. The coolant is contained in separate chamber, so there is no direct contact with the battery in the event of a leak.
The RZ battery pack can be charged with either AC or DC power supply. For AC charging, the maximum power supply is 11 kW using a Type 2 cable. DC charging is done with a CCS2 cable and can be up to 150 kW for fast-charging.
The charging times will vary depending on various factors such as temperature and power supply rating. When charging with AC supply, it can take up to 7 hours from 0% to 100%. Using a DC fast-charging station rated at 150 kW, the time from 0% to 80% is up to 30 minutes.
The range on a fully charged battery pack is up to 440 kms (WLTP) but this depends on driving conditions, temperature, etc. To help drivers maximise their vehicle’s range potential, the RZ has a Range mode. This builds on the energy saving performance of the ECO mode by further adjusting certain vehicle settings. For example, the vehicle speed is limited; a different power distribution programme is initiated; and the climate control system is switched off.
Thanks to a focus on key factors, including optimised vehicle weight, battery power and performance, the RZ has a target consumption below 18 kW per 100 kms driven, which makes it one of the most efficient BEVs in the market. As with other BEVs, there is also a regenerative braking capability to convert lost braking or deceleration energy into electricity that is stored in the battery pack.
DIRECT4 ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
The RZ is the first production model to feature Lexus’s new DIRECT4 intelligent all-wheel drive control system, working with the two e-Axles. The e-Axle is a compact, modular package which consists of a motor, gear, and an ECU, located between the driven wheels. The e-Axles are quiet, efficient and deliver precise power.
The front motor produces 150 kW and the rear 80 kW, giving a total power output of 230 kW. Both have superior power density, thanks to optimised rotor and stator design. Their compact dimensions also contribute to the car’s packaging, helping secure more space in the cabin and load compartment and to accommodate the EV battery pack.
The exclusive Lexus technology is a key element in the driving performance of the RZ. It automatically adjusts driving force distribution between the front and rear e-Axles within milliseconds in response to driving conditions. DIRECT4 also automatically adjusts the braking force on all 4 wheels in accordance with ground contact load and improves the energy efficiency of a BEV.
DIRECT4 continually provides optimal drive force balance between front and rear by controlling each e-Axle independently. Sensors send information to the ECU about wheel speed, longitudinal g-force,
and steering angle. The intelligent system analyses this information in milliseconds and then responds to maximise traction and grip, almost instantly. Front/rear torque bias can be adjusted from zero to 100% and anything in between in milliseconds, faster than any mechanical system.
Besides inspiring the overall design, the cheetah also inspired Lexus engineers with the way its head remained stable while it was sprinting and swerving in pursuit of prey. This led the engineers to look for new ways to control the RZ’s body posture and with DIRECT4, they were able to bestow the vehicle with exceptionally good pitch control.
The extent to which the vehicle tilts backwards under acceleration and forwards under braking is limited, reducing the corresponding movements of occupants’ heads. This gives the driver a more stable sightline and significantly enhances passenger comfort too, especially in the rear seats.
In addition to the greater control of vehicle body posture, and a reduction in sudden cabin movements for a smoother ride, the other benefits of DIRECT4 are powerful and smooth on-demand acceleration; excellent traction under acceleration and on slippery surfaces; better stability through corners; and reassuringly secure braking.
Torque distribution to the wheels is constantly varied, enhancing the precise, linear, natural-feeling responses to driver inputs. When cruising, only the rear motor is used to maximise driving range. All these attributes strengthen the RZ’s core driving characteristics, represented by the “three Cs” that are the cornerstones of the Lexus Driving Signature: Confidence, Control, and Comfort.
LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM+
The RZ comes with the 3rd generation of the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+) which offers world-class safety performance.
With new and improved functions that operate seamlessly in the context of a BEV, LSS+ can recognise and react to an even wider range of accident risk scenarios. Advanced technologies are used to detect more hazards, provide driver warnings, and initiate steering, braking and acceleration assistance when required to help avoid a collision or mitigate the consequences if an impact does happen. They also reduce the burden on the driver, making the job of driving less tiring.
At the core of LSS+ are 5 active safety systems which use a wide-angle camera and radar to scan the road and surroundings ahead of the vehicle. The systems are: Pre-Collision System (PCS); Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC); Lane Keeping System; High Beam Assist; and Road Sign Assist (RSA).
The wider detection range of the radar and camera allows a wider range of hazards to be identified. This includes the risk of a head-on collision with traffic coming from the left or right when making a turn at an intersection. The system’s response time is faster, and it is also now able to identify motorcycles, as well as cyclists and pedestrians.
To ensure safety while exiting the vehicle, the RZ has Safe Exit Assist (SEA) on each door. Linked to the Blind Spot Monitor, the e-Latch system will prevent the door from being opened if a cyclists or vehicle is detected approaching from behind. Lexus estimates this safeguard can help prevent more than 95% of the accidents caused by door opening in hazardous situations.
Like the new LM luxury MPV, the RZ also comes with an advanced system known as Lexus Teammate Advanced Park which providing automatic manoeuvring of the vehicle into a parking bay. While some automatic parking systems require the driver to manage the power, Lexus Teammate handles steering, accelerator, brake, and shift operations. 4 Parallel View Monitor (PVM) cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors provide visual data for the system to smoothly position the vehicle in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.
The Panoramic View Monitor uses the RZ’s array of 4 cameras and 12 sensors to give the driver a 360- degree view of the car’s immediate surroundings, with the option of a composite, overhead view (simulated). Cameras in the door mirrors provide a side clearance view to help negotiate narrow lanes and spaces, and there is also an under-floor “see-through” view option, to check the driving surface beneath the car and the position of the wheels.
A cornering view provides a diagonal image to help with turns in narrow roads and avoid contact with kerbs. A moving view shows the car as seen from diagonally above. A camera washer system keeps the monitor clear, activated when the rear screen washer is used.
The RZ has a full complement of SRS airbags, helping to protect driver and passenger from colliding with each other in the event of a side impact. The impact-absorbing quality of the vehicle’s frame has been enhanced with a new door impact beam and quarter lock pillar design. The beam helps ensure impact loads are shared by each of the pillars and rockers; the quarter lock pillar prevents crushing of the wheelhouse.
FULL AFTERSALES SUPPORT
Although the RZ 450e is a totally new type of vehicle with its fully electric drivetrain, Lexus Malaysia will provide complete and qualified aftersales support to owners. All the services centres in the Lexus Malaysia network nationwide have technicians trained to maintain BEVs and there is also the latest diagnostic.
The RZ 450e Luxury comes with a standard 5-year / unlimited mileage service warranty as well as 8- year / unlimited mileage with additional 2 years (optional) of coverage for the electric-vehicle components; battery, inverter, and electronic control unit. With that, all BEV part replacements in the RZ 450e Luxury are well assure and will be covered by Lexus Malaysia.
