RZ uses DIRECT4 ensuring the perfect driving experience
Conversations about the petrol price often lead to a debate about the viability of electric vehicles - especially within the South Africa context. The Lexus RZ offers a 400km range which may well eliminate range anxiety issues.
A new era has begun for Lexus battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and the Lexus Electrified vision with the world premiere of the all-new RZ 450e.
The RZ also embodies the unique Lexus vehicle design and driving experience brought on by advanced electrification technologies and know-how cultivated over many years through hybrid-vehicle development.
Fundamental performance is greatly evolved by using a BEV-specific platform (e-TNGA), adopting a lightweight and highly rigid body and implementing optimal weight distribution through ideal placement of the batteries and motor.
In addition, a new yoke-like steering control and steer-by-wire, along with the new DIRECT4 all-wheel drive force distribution system, enables vehicle control that is faithful to the driver’s every intention – a key trait of the Lexus Driving Signature.
The RZ also features the latest Lexus Safety System+, which incorporates new driver-assist technologies, including the ability to bring the vehicle to a stop and notify emergency services if the driver is drowsy or having difficulty driving.
Lexus Safety System+ can also help reduce driver fatigue in traffic jams and activate advanced remote-control parking through a connected smartphone.
BEV design shaped by aerodynamic performance
The RZ’s athletic design conveys a uniquely Lexus BEV identity with optimised proportions and aerodynamic efficiency.
The elimination of the internal combustion engine results in a new visual identity, with the signature spindle grille replaced by a BEV spindle body that signals the seamless acceleration and dynamic performance specific to BEVs.
The interior presents a minimalist yet airy and luxurious environment, exuding a sense of refinement, high-quality craftsmanship and functional essence.
The application of shift-by-wire has resulted in a Lexus-first dial shift knob mounted on the centre console.
Under the Lexus Electrified vision, Lexus engineers have tuned sound frequencies to the vehicle’s speed and sound levels during dynamic actions such as acceleration.
Evolution of the Lexus Driving Signature through electrification
The RZ possesses impressive acceleration, steering and braking performance, in keeping with the Lexus Driving Signature – a uniquely Lexus driving experience that aims to achieve predictable, linear response according to the driver’s intentions.
The new DIRECT4 system takes the Lexus Driving Signature to an even higher level. It uses acceleration, cornering-speed and steering-angle information to automatically adjust front-rear torque delivery and braking force to all four wheels.
The system uses a front and rear e-axle, each equipped with a high-torque electric motor, transaxle and inverter in a compact unit. As each motor is directly connected to the wheels by a single driveshaft, it operates without delay.
The RZ utilises a Lexus-first dedicated BEV platform (e-TNGA), which offers high levels of stability and ride comfort by mounting the battery under the vehicle floor, contributing to a low centre of gravity.
Battery-control technology ensures a world-class battery capacity retention rate of at least 90% after 10 years. An even higher battery capacity is available with a timer charging function that avoids overcharging.
Advanced safety technologies
The RZ is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System +, including proactive driving assist (PDA) designed to contribute to safe and secure driving by providing support for a wider range of driving situations.
In addition to the pre-collision safety (PCS), all-speed radar cruise control and lane departure alert (LDA) systems, an optional driver monitor provides a warning when it detects the driver is drowsy or looking sideways.
The RZ also features advanced drive (traffic-jam support) and advanced park (with remote function), based on the Lexus Teammate1 concept.
Lexus Electrified
The portfolio expansion will see Lexus contributing to the realisation of a carbon-neutral society by offering a full line-up of BEVs in all categories by 2030. Five years later, Lexus seeks to achieve 100% BEV sales globally.
The Lexus RZ for South African introduction is currently under study.
Source: MotorPress
