Lexus goes full electric, launches all-new Lexus RZ450e for just Php 4.828M

MANILA: Lexus has released its first, globally available battery-electric car, the brand-new Lexus RZ450e and it has finally reached our shores. This vehicle is the most recent addition to Lexus' electrified selection of seven hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars. The company aims to provide completely battery-electric vehicles worldwide by 2035 as part of its objective to promote a sustainable global society.

The debut of the Lexus RZ450e presents a new lightweight e-TNGA steel platform, which is a first for the Lexus brand. This platform's main benefit is stability and ride comfort, which is achieved by placing the 96-cell lithium-ion battery pack beneath the car's floor. Additionally, this positioning creates a low center of gravity and inertia movement, which improves stability and ride comfort further.

Chief Engineer Takashi Watanabe said: “The RZ has been developed with the aim of creating a uniquely Lexus BEV that feels secure to ride in, is pleasing to the touch and is exhilarating to drive.

“Our vision is to use electrification technology as a means to enhance fundamental vehicle performance, so that we can continue to pursue driving pleasure for all future generations.”

The Lexus RZ450e's battery powers a 150 kW electric motor in the front and an 80 kW motor in the rear, which results in a total system horsepower rating of 308. Reports indicate that this powerful electric motor system allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds. Moreover, the RZ 450e offers impressive range estimates of up to 435 km with 18-inch wheels and up to 395 km with 20-inch wheels, making it not only a high-performance SUV but also an economical one.

Lexus' all-new EV comes equipped with a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system that comprises two high-output, high-torque eAxle units that drive a set of wheels each. The front suspension, designed with a MacPherson strut type, and the rear suspension, featuring a trailing arm multi-link configuration, are both finely tuned and strategically positioned to enhance the vehicle's handling balance, roll posture, and ride comfort. The newly introduced Active Hydraulic Booster-G (AHB-G) braking system cooperates with the DIRECT4 system and the RZ's regenerative motor capability to slow down the vehicle while improving its posture.

The all-new Lexus RZ450e will initially only be available in one variant and pricing starts at Php 4,828,000. 

Photos from Lexus

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