Lexus RZ EV Makes Global Debut With Steer-By-Wire Technology

Lexus, the luxury car division of the Japanese automaker Toyota has taken the wraps off its latest electric car offering the RZ. The Lexus RX EV has made its global debut today in Brussels, Belgium. Sharing this update the company revealed that this new age EV will be introduced by the company in a phased manner across various regions from the fall season of 2025.

Lexus has debuted its latest EV with RZ nomenclature in three trim levels - the RZ 350e, the RZ 500e and the RZ 550e F Sport. The RZ EV has been developed by the company based on a completely redesigned BEV (battery electric vehicle) system which has been tuned to offer higher power output, increased range and lower charging time. It also features the company’s next generation steer-by-wire technology which, according to the company, offers a completely new driving experience. It also features the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

For the first time ever Lexus has introduced an interactive manual drive mode in an EV which offers the experience similar to shifting by syncing acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle with immersive sounds.

The Lexus RZ EV measures 4,805mm in length, 1,895mm in width and 1,635mm in height. It has a wheelbase spanning 2,850mm and it weighs between 1,995 to 2,180 kgs.

The Lexus RZ 350e comes equipped with a single electric motor setup coupled with a 76.96 kWh battery pack which produces up to 221.23 bhp and returns a claimed range of up to 575 km. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.5 seconds.

The Lexus RZ 500e comes equipped with a dual electric motor setup coupled with a 76.96 kWh battery pack which produces up to 375.39 bhp and returns a claimed range of up to 500 km. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.6 seconds.

The Lexus RZ 550e F Sport comes equipped with a dual electric motor setup coupled with a 76.96 kWh battery pack which produces up to 402.22 bhp and returns a claimed range of up to 450 km. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.4 seconds.

Shinya Ito, Lexus International, Chief Engineer said, “Lexus is committed to refining electrification technologies to enhance the fundamental joy of driving and deliver new driving experiences. In the new RZ, we have extended electrification technology to the control system with the introduction of a Steer-by-Wire system, optimizing intuitive steering response on winding roads and enhancing maneuverability at low speeds. Additionally, the software-driven Interactive Manual Drive enables a dynamic and engaging driving experience, allowing for deeper dialogue between driver and vehicle”.