Lexus turns up the power for RZ EV

by Paul Murrell

LEXUS RZ customers can expect an even more energised driving experience when the updated battery electric vehicle (BEV) arrives later this year.

The Kaizen approach for continuous improvement builds on the outstanding luxury and refinement of the Lexus RZ, with a fully redesigned BEV system increasing motor output, extending driving range and reducing charging time.

The natural driving feeling of the Lexus Driving Signature (LDS) now runs deeper, with refinements to the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system bringing smoother, more intuitive and exhilarating handling to the flagship Lexus BEV.

The RZ is of course the Lexus counterpart of the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra EVs.

The local lineup will start with the RZ 500e, the new badge reflecting a 50kW increase in power to 280kW.

A new high-performance hero in the RZ 550e F Sport will also join the range.

The RZ 550e F Sport’s higher-output front and rear motors combine to produce 300kW for a more powerful and exhilarating driving experience.

F Sport will also be offered with the latest iteration of the innovative Lexus Steer-by-Wire system, coupled with a uniquely designed steering wheel.

Interactive Manual Drive for F Sport introduces further Lexus innovation, replicating the sensation of driving with a manual transmission and synchronising acceleration and deceleration with an immersive engine sound.

Lexus International Chief Engineer Shinya Ito said Lexus is committed to refining electrification technologies to enhance the fundamental joy of driving.

“Lexus will continue to push the boundaries of its signature driving experience by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge hardware and software,” Mr Ito said.

The battery system in the RZ is fully redesigned to enhance the EV driving experience.

A newly developed high-capacity lithium-ion battery features both improved battery cells and an increase in the number of cells to lift battery capacity to 76.96kWh.

A high-output motor and the latest eAxle (for both front and rear) with improved inverter efficiency reduces energy loss while contributing to the power gain and delivering smoother mid-range response.

Together with an optimised battery pack structure, driving range is extended by 14 percent to 500km and charging time reduced by up 30 minutes, the latter also thanks to an optimised onboard charger.

RZ’s innovative Lexus Steer-by-Wire system is set to revolutionise the cockpit experience, creating a seamless connection between driver and vehicle.

The system allows for precise steering control through approximately 200 degrees of rotation, eliminating the need for large steering inputs, leading to smoother and more effortless driving.

The steering gear ratio is dynamically adjusted based on vehicle speed, thereby aiding low-speed manoeuvrability, agile handling on winding roads, and better stability at highway speeds. With steering inputs made through electrical signals, unwanted road vibrations are minimised, giving a smoother feel through the driver’s hands.

The uniquely designed steering wheel is a yoke-type design, with an open-top and flat bottom.

It naturally directs the driver’s line of sight forward and promotes eyes on the road.

The RZ 550e F Sport has the handling poise and prowess to make the most of its 300kW of power.

The suspension is tuned for sporty dynamic responses without compromising trademark Lexus supple ride quality.

Lexus engineers achieved this by optimising the absorber damping force and coil spring rates.

An exclusive exterior design enhances F Sport’s aerodynamic efficiency and driving stability through functional elements such as the front lower bumper, brake ducts, rear spoiler, rear lower bumper, and 20-inch aero wheels.

The 20-inch aero wheels incorporate an aero cover over the aluminium wheel itself, serving as an aerodynamic aid while also reducing weight and improving energy efficiency.

A new F Sport exclusive body colour, Neutrino Grey, will be offered in some markets.

It is a solid light grey with subtle metallic highlights to emphasise this RZ’s dynamic character.

The global colour lineup includes five monotone and four bi-tone options, all designed to embody the sporty character and inherent strength of a BEV.

With the integration of high-output motors and a new eAxle featuring enhanced inverter efficiency on both the front and rear axles, Lexus has further refined the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system.

By optimising torque distribution control, the system achieves superior traction and enhanced driving stability, ensuring a more responsive and confident driving experience faithful to the LDS.

During acceleration and launching in a straight line, the system dynamically adjusts torque front to rear between 60:40 to 0:100, reducing vehicle pitching and delivering a more direct response.

When cornering, the system optimally adjusts torque distribution front to rear between 80:20 to 0:100 based on driving conditions, using information such as vehicle speed and steering angle.

During the turn-in phase, torque is directed toward the front wheels to facilitate crisp and precise cornering.

At corner exit, torque is allocated according to each wheel’s contact load, allowing for seamless acceleration while maintaining vehicle stability.

Furthermore, integration with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system enhances ride stability, providing a flatter, more composed driving feeling, while also improving emergency handling for greater safety and hazard avoidance.

This Lexus innovation allows drivers to control power delivery in a manner similar to operating a manual transmission through switches.

This system features a virtual eight-speed manual transmission that adjusts drivetrain output based on the selected virtual gear, throttle input and vehicle speed.

To further enrich the immersive experience, the system displays the gears and incorporates engine-like sound during acceleration and deceleration, delivering an auditory sensation reminiscent of a conventional petrol engine.

With the adoption of a newly developed high-capacity lithium-ion battery and the integration of the new eAxle, Lexus has refined the RZ’s suspension to enhance both vehicle dynamics and ride comfort.

The front suspension now has an increase in low-frequency absorber damping force, creating a flatter and more stable ride; while the rear suspension features an expanded damper range, aiding both low- and high-frequency damping forces to improve handling stability and ride quality.

In this way, the more precise control of the RZ’s sprung mass deepens the LDS.

Body rigidity improvements include strengthening the front radiator support area through increased panel thickness and reinforced joints, while at the rear an additional rear brace helps reduce localised torsional deformation. It all adds up to crisper, more linear steering response, precision and feedback.

The dimmable panoramic roof available on selected grades adds to the airy and open feeling of the cabin.

When the dimming function is deactivated, the outside is figuratively brought into the cabin.

Upon dimming, the shading provides comfort from intense sunlight and high UV.

Harsh reflections in the digital rearview mirror can also be minimised at the same time.

Another Lexus first are door trim surfaces using Ultrasuede containing approximately 30 per cent plant-based materials.

Laser-etched graphics on the Ultrasuede brings new style to contemporary luxury.

Extensive noise reduction measures create exceptional quietness and further refinement.

A rear floor silencer is added beneath the rear seats to minimise noise intrusion, while high-performance soundproofing materials for the door trims, expanded seat side garnishes, and rear door trim enhance insulation.

The introduction of a sound-absorbing tonneau cover and integrating soundproofing materials into the storage box helps to suppress road noise, while the body floor panel now features high-damping adhesive, reducing unwanted vibrations and enhancing ride comfort and overall refinement.

Lexus Australia will confirm the local RZ lineup with grades and specifications closer to the updated model’s introduction from later this year.