Lexus confirms RZ450e for Australia

LEXUS Australia has confirmed that it will offer its RZ450e all-electric SUV locally from mid next year, with a claimed driving range of up to 450km, but final specifications and pricing will not be announced until closer to launch.

As the Japanese luxury brand’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), the RZ450e showcases what Lexus says are advanced technologies and innovations developed through more than 15 years of expertise with electric motor, battery and energy management systems for its popular hybrid models.

Lexus says the RZ breaks new ground as the first BEV from the brand to be built from a clean-sheet design. The model rides on a specific version of Toyota’s e-TNGA platform that allows batteries to be placed low to the ground for optimal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.

Further, the Lexus RZ450e utilises the brand’s Direct4 all-wheel drive system that not only offers additional traction but can also automatically adjust front-to-rear torque delivery in response to acceleration, cornering speed and steering angle inputs to maximise grip, stability, and comfort.

Lexus says it has designed the cabin of the RZ450e around its human-centric Tazuna philosophy which aims to place all vehicle controls intuitively while also “welcoming occupants with thoughtful appointments”.

Output figures of its dual-motor RZ450e are yet to be announced but Lexus says the model’s battery technology offers a world-class capacity retention rate of “at least 90 per cent after 10 years” thanks, in part, to a built-in timer function that avoids over-charging.

The RZ450e measures 4805mm in length, 1895mm in width, 1635mm in height and rides on a 2850mm wheelbase and 20-inch alloy wheels. The SUV has a MacPherson strut suspension up front and a trailing arm double-wishbone arrangement at the rear.

Damping is managed by frequency-reactive dampers, which alter the damping force on the extension stroke in response to read surface frequency input.

The RZ450e is steered by a yoke-style “wheel” and steer-by-wire technology. Along with Lexus’ new Direct4 all-wheel drive-force distribution. The arrangement aims to create “vehicle control that is faithful to the driver’s every intention”, Lexus claims.

“Our customers have been excited by the RZ ever since its global reveal back in April,” said Lexus Australia chief executive John Pappas.

"I am delighted to confirm the RZ as the next all-new offering in the Lexus Electrified portfolio in Australia. This is a luxury SUV for customers wanting the latest in Lexus zero-emission technology and innovative design.

"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."

Mr Pappas said guests attending the Landmark by Lexus pavilion at this year’s Melbourne Cup will get an exclusive preview of the model.

The Lexus RZ450e will take to nine the number of electrified models offered in the brand’s Australian portfolio, which currently boasts six hybrid-electric vehicles, one plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (NX450h+) and the fully electric UX300e.

Lexus Australia currently leads the premium segment in terms of electrified vehicle sales with a 47.3 per cent share over the first nine months of 2022.