The Lexus RZ 450e is the Japanese marque’s debutant, marking its first foray into battery electric vehicle (BEV) territory.
American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It’s not the destination, but the journey that matters.” Who would have thought a nugget of wisdom from the 19th century would be as compelling as it is today? All puns aside, there are parallels between the quote and what luxury automotive maker Lexus strives for. After defying what many labelled as an impossible mission en route to establishing the brand in 1989, Lexus moves ahead with a new destination on the horizon — a vision of a sustainable global society. The Japanese maker has taken a path of electrification towards its goal with a brand new route in the form of the Lexus RZ 450e.
While Lexus has been a longtime leader in electric cars (it was the first luxury car maker to produce a hybrid in 2005), they bide their time with the BEV. After branching out into plug-in hybrid and hybrid electric vehicles, the pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) is Lexus’ next route in its path of electrification. The result is a well-thought-out car that harmonises luxury, comfort and craftsmanship with Lexus’ wealth of electrification experience.
At first glance, the Lexus RZ 450e’s design is distinctly Lexus albeit with a twist — as a closed BEV Spindle Body replaces the signature spindle grille. A sleeker silhouette hints at its athletic nature while maintaining its air of luxury with a distinct refinement. Form meets function as its contemporary aesthetics focuses on aerodynamic efficiencies and sets a new design language for future Lexus electric vehicles.
An equally luxurious touch is afforded to the interior, as seen in the Ultrasuede seats. Underlying messages of sustainability are present as the premium upholstery and suede door trims are mindfully sourced. The airy and cavernous interior is further elevated with a Multi-Colour Ambient Illumination and Dynamic Sky Panorama Roof. Pick from one of the 64 interior colours or enjoy natural light and views of the starry night sky as the all-glass roof goes from transparent to opaque with a touch of a button. The second-to-none driving experience is enhanced by the Lexus Tazuna concept that focuses around the Japanese marque’s human-centred philosophy. An intuitive steering wheel synchronises with the Head-Up Display, allowing the driver to access various functions naturally while focusing on the road.
The Lexus RZ 450e’s construction is based on the eTNGA platform for enhanced fundamental performance. A lightweight and rigid body has its weight distribution optimised as the battery placement under the vehicle floor lowers the centre of gravity for greater stability. A high-efficiency charging system that accepts AC and DC charging allows for 10 to 80 per cent fast charging within just half an hour. With a range of up to 440km, drive around Singapore with peace of mind.
Navigating the city is a breeze thanks to the Lexus Driving Signature, which achieves a predictable, linear response according to the driver’s intentions. Together with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and other state-of-the-art features such as the all-wheel drive DIRECT4 system, new Lexus e-Axles and the Braking Posture Control, expect better handling, stability, optimised power consumption and a dynamic drive through even the most stressful road conditions.
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