CAR /
IMPRESSION
May 13, 2022
Test drive of the Lexus RZ, the brand's first dedicated battery EV prototype—What kind of driving experience does Lexus aim for? | LEXUS
Thoroughly pursuing what BEVs can do
Lexus defines itself as a "car company." Its mission is to "continue pursuing enjoyable cars while valuing nature and the global environment." To that end, the brand claims to have pursued driving performance with the RZ.
The brand, which considers faithful and linear response to the driver's intentions as something Lexus cars should always aim for, has adopted the "DIRECT4" all-wheel-drive system for the RZ. This system controls the front and rear power distribution based on driving conditions and road surface.
For example, when approaching a corner, more power is distributed to the front wheels to utilize their grip for turning. Then, as the car accelerates out of the corner, the rear wheels push the car forward with a power distribution ratio of up to 80% at the rear.
For the production model, in addition to a conventional steering system, a steer-by-wire model, where front wheels are steered by motors, will also be introduced.
The powerful drive motors, four-wheel drive control, finely tuned brakes, and the steer-by-wire system aimed at "achieving driving that integrates the driver and the car"—it truly feels like a thorough pursuit of what BEVs can do.
The satisfying driving experience, as mentioned earlier, is largely due to the precise application of advanced electronic control technology. At the same time, we thoroughly reviewed the body rigidity, according to Mr. Watanabe.
This includes techniques such as using laser screw welding, structural adhesives, and laser pinning welding for body frame joints, reinforcing various parts, and adopting a double-ring structure to suppress deformation at the rear luggage opening.
The era when EVs boasted powerful torque and instant acceleration unique to electric motors is over. That has become commonplace. But what comes next? The Lexus RZ may be the first to answer that question.
It offers high maneuverability, a pleasant driving experience that aligns with the driver's intentions, and a respectable cruising range of approximately 450km on a single charge. Based on the glimpse the prototype offered, I have high expectations for the RZ. Pricing is undecided, but it's likely to be higher than the 4WD version of the Toyota bZ4X, which costs 6.5 million yen.
LEXUS RZ (Prototype)
- Body Dimensions | Length 4,805 × Width 1,895 × Height 1,635mm
- Wheelbase | 2,850mm
- Output | Front 150kW Rear 80kW
- Battery Capacity | 1.4kWh
- Cruising Range (WLTC Mode) | Approx. 450km (Development Target)
- Tire Size | Front 18-inch / Rear 20-inch
Contact Information
Lexus Information Desk
Tel. 0800-500-5577 (9:00-18:00, open 365 days a year)
https://lexus.jp/
