Luxury, power, and performance are hallmarks of the Lexus brand. These traits—elevated to a higher standard thanks to the skilled engineers and takumi master craftsmen who work tirelessly to enhance the Lexus experience—will always be present in every Lexus model throughout the range. The groundbreaking battery electric model to herald the next electrified chapter of Lexus in the Philippines is the Lexus RZ 450e launched last May 2023 in the Country. This all-new SUV is the first Lexus electric vehicle to be developed from the ground up, and as such goes further than any other model to realize the exciting potential of the Lexus Electrified philosophy. Along with the brand’s other electrified models such as its expansive hybrid electric line-up – the pathway toward a more carbon neutral and a sustainable mobility society is within reach. The RZ has an intelligent all-wheel drive system uses a separate electric motor and inverter to constantly balance the power and torque between the front and rear axles in any driving situation. It automatically and seamlessly adjusts the level of the drive force between the two axles—more quickly and precisely than any mechanical system could. Called the DIRECT4, this communicates a better feel between the road and steering wheel and delivers improved handling stability and driving dynamics at high speed. The result is the Lexus Driving Signature coming to life. The DIRECT4 distribution control uses wheel vehicle speed, acceleration, and steering angle sensor information to control front-to-rear drive force ratio distribution between 100:0 and 0:100. This contributes to improved start-up acceleration, handling stability, and low power consumption. The system uses an approximate front-to-rear drive force ratio distribution between 60:40 and 40:60 to minimize vehicle pitch during launch and straight-line acceleration, thereby achieving a direct acceleration feel. Vital information such as cornering speed and steering angle help to optimize drive force distribution according to various driving conditions and helps attain excellent handling stability. This kind of control and adaptive behavior has been unheard of in the industry until now, and is the equivalent of engineering wizardry. When the steering wheel is turned, drive force is biased to the front wheels (distributing drive force between 75:25 and 50:50) so the RZ responds nimbly and provides excellent steering feel. When exiting a corner, torque distribution to the rear wheels is further increased (between 50:50 and 20:80) to ensure ample traction while controlling vehicle pitch. For RZ, engineers have achieved a refined driving feel by orchestrating the seamless operation of their accumulated electrification and dynamic vehicle movement control technologies.
The newly developed eAxle fully integrates the motor, transaxle, and inverter within a compact unit to benefit cruise range, spacious interior, and excellent design. The front eAxle is packaged with a short front/rear system layout, while the rear eAxle features a low-profile layout contributing to increased interior and cargo space. In addition, the use of a high-efficiency inverter having an element in the rear, contributes to an increase in cruise range. High-quality handling and responsiveness are secured with a dedicated new electric vehicle platform, which brings excellent body rigidity, a low center of gravity, and a long wheelbase. A powerful lithium-ion battery unit is fully integrated into the chassis, beneath the cabin floor. It is details like these that will be appreciated by driving enthusiasts the world over.
The platform and battery electric drivetrain also open up new freedoms in design. The exterior reinterprets the signature Lexus spindle shape in the vehicle’s body, while the interior is a light and open space that is both simple and luxurious, expressing Lexus Omotenashi hospitality and takumi craftsmanship. The exterior design expresses the seamless acceleration and dynamic torque-filled performance specific to BEVs. Lexus’ identifiable spindle grille is replaced by a BEV Spindle Body. The new front bumper design focuses on aerodynamic efficiencies, optimized proportions, and style, versus serving the cooling and exhaust needs of an internal combustion engine. This styling evolution ushers in a new Lexus aesthetic and establishes a new design direction for BEV offerings. Within the spindle body is a minimalist, spacious interior focused on amplifying a sustainable mobility message and Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) through its application of mindfully sourced materials. Though simplistic, the space is luxurious thanks to its crafted touches and advanced technologies. Lexus will continue pursuing the creation of exciting cars while respecting nature and the global environment to achieve a carbon-neutral society. The RZ 450e moves Lexus toward another essential goal: The realization of a sustainable global society. To meet these challenges, Lexus will rigorously improve its products and sharpen the expertise of its takumi master craftsmen. The RZ 450e is only the beginning of this new and exciting Lexus chapter. There are more pleasant surprises to come.