The updated Lexus RZ battery electric vehicle (BEV) arrives later this year.
The local lineup will start with the RZ 500e, the new badge reflecting a 50kW increase in power to 280kW.
A new high-performance RZ 550e F Sport will also join the range, higher output front and rear motors producing 300kW.
The updated BEV has extended range (by 14% up to 500km), a faster charging time (reduced by 30 minutes, with an optimised onboard charger), a newly developed high-capacity lithium-ion battery featuring improved battery cells and an increase in the number of cells to lift battery capacity to 76.96kWh.
Refinements to the DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system are expected to improve handling.
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, while a steer-by-wire system allows for precise steering control through about 200 degrees, says Lexus Australia which says it will confirm the local RZ lineup with grades and specifications closer to the updated model’s introduction.
Interactive Manual Drive for F Sport with an immersive engine sound is also included.
“Lexus will continue to push the boundaries of its signature driving experience by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge hardware and software,” says Lexus International chief engineer Shinya Ito.
The RZ 550e F Sport’s yoke-type steering wheel has an open-top and flat bottom which naturally directs the driver’s line of sight forward and promotes eyes on the road, says Lexus, adding the suspension is tuned for sporty dynamic responses without compromising ride quality.
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 which incorporate an aero cover over the aluminium wheel itself.
A new F Sport exclusive body colour, Neutrino Grey, will be offered in some markets.
The global colour lineup includes five monotone and four bi-tone options.
A dimmable panoramic roof is available on selected grades.
Door trim surfaces using Ultrasuede 3 contain about 30% plant-based materials, the trim including laser-etched graphics.
Extensive noise reduction measures create exceptional quietness and 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 suppress road noise, while the body floor panel now features high-damping adhesive, reducing unwanted vibrations.
The updated BEV can accelerate from zero to100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.
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