Lexus has launched its first dedicated Battery EV model, the RZ 450e. The all-electric SUV is one of Toyota’s $96 billion investments in rolling out 30 EV models by 2030. The RZ 450e will be based on Toyota’s dedicated EV platform, e-TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture).
New Lexus BEV Spindle Body: An Electrifying Shift
Forget the classic spindle grille—Lexus has gone fully electric with an BEV Spindle Body that screams future vibes.
- Front‑end makeover – Slimmer bumper, sleeker lines.
- Aero‑boost – Designed to cut drag and boost efficiency.
- Lights that pop – Signature lighting pattern stays true to the Lexus family.
In short: the new design folds cutting‑edge tech into a stylish package that’ll have your friends asking what kind of car you’re driving—if it’s actually a car or a spaceship!
Meet the Tazuna Concept: A Cockpit That’s Got Some Style
Step into the Tazuna concept and you’ll notice it’s not just a space‑craft—it’s a fashion statement for drivers. The highlight? A sleek yoke steering wheel that feels familiar, yet totally cutting‑edge, reminiscent of the one found in the Tesla Model S. It’s the kind of steering that makes you feel like you’re floating in a futurist cockpit, but the controls? Absolutely dead‑simple.
Why the Yoke Works So Well
- Gives that “I’m in the driver’s seat” vibe without the labyrinthine dashboard.
- Simplifies the steering experience; you don’t need to navigate a maze of buttons.
- Adds a touch of high‑tech swagger that turns every ride into a show.
So next time you think of a pilot or a trader, remember that the Tazuna concept combines aeronautical flair with a touch of electric‑vehicle cool—making the cockpit both futuristically functional and fun to look at.
Buckle up!
The driver-centric looking cockpit brings a slightly redesigned dashboard that can be accessed via the 14.0-inch touchscreen that controls the infotainment system, which runs on the same new software that is on the Lexus NX model.
Introducing the RZ 450e – Lexus’s Electric Sprinter
Fast‑Track Performance
It all starts with a single‑motor powertrain that puts out a solid 308 hp and a hefty 435 Nm of torque. The result? A 0‑to‑100 km/h dash in just 5.6 seconds. Yeah, it’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for a gasoline model before.
Battery Life: Up to 362 Km on a Single Charge
Lexus claims a range of 362 km when tested under the WLTP cycle. That’s enough to beat a marathon or at least give you a few coffee stops before you need to plug in again.
Safety System+ 3.0 – Your Ride’s Personal Bodyguard
- Pre‑Collision System – Watches the road ahead and breaches the gap before you even feel a bump.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control – Keeps you at a steady pace, automatically adjusting for traffic.
- Lane Departure Alert – The car’s way of saying “hey, stay in your lane, buddy!”
- Emergency Driving Stop System – Gives you an extra pause if something surprises you.
Comfort That Cares
Instead of the usual stiff benches, the cabin’s seats are plush with Ultrasuede—a fabric that feels like a hug from a cloud.
Why It’s Special:
- Made from 30 % bio‑based, sustainable materials that keep the planet happy.
- Soft, breathable, and easy to clean—great for travelers who like to snack on the go.
- Durable enough to stand the test of many flights (and bad jokes).
So sit back, relax, and know that your comfort is on the inside—and on the outside, it’s green too.
Lexus RZ 450e: The Roof That Says “Fine, I Can Dim It”
Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway, the sun is blazing like it’s got a personal stake in your window, and you think, “I wish I could just switch it off.” Enter the RZ 450e’s panoramic roof with the brand‑new shadow illumination feature—Lexus’ first of its kind. It’s basically a “dim the whole sky” button for your car.
Why You’ll Go “Whoa!”
- Instant Dimming: One tap and the roof goes from bright to mellow faster than you can say “no glare”.
- Personalized Shade: Adjust the brightness level to match your mood—be it a chilled afternoon or a sultry night drive.
- Cool Cabin: Less sun means cooler interior, so “sun‑burn” no longer belongs to the small‑car cluster.
It’s More Than Just a Fancy Feature
Think of that moment when the sun spits in your eyes so hard you’re practically a sunbather. Great. Now, with a simple button press, that glaring sun can become a gentle, cooled zen zone. It’s as if your car can instantly change its mood, like a mood ring but for the whole sky.
Lexus RZ 450e: The Mixed‑Energy Marvel Is Almost Here!
When Will It Hit the Road?
Late‑year launch – Lexus has pencilled the RZ 450e into the market for the end of this year. If you’re keeping an eye on the car‑market calendar, set your calendar alarm for the last quarter.
What’s the Price Tag?
Singapore’s final price is still under wraps, but using the current COE (Certificate of Entitlement) band, the RZ 450e will likely sit somewhere between $400,000 and $500,000. That’s a hefty wallet check, but the hybrid‑electric synergy could make the spend worthwhile.
Why This Model Gets Your Head Turning
- It’s a hyper‑charged hybrid that combines a powerful electric motor with an efficient combustion engine.
- The “R” in RZ stands for “rugged”, hinting at a new look that’s both sleek and street‑ready.
- It hits the sweet spot for eco‑conscious buyers who still crave the luxury feel of a Lexus.
Read More About Lexus’ Sustainability Efforts
While you wait for the RZ 450e to roll out, you might find this 2022 Lexus NX 450h+ PHEV review insightful—you’ll get a feel for how Lexus blends performance with green tech.
— First published by CarBuyer, with support from lexuscarSustainability.
