Lexus Enters EV Waters with RZ Crossover

This morning we were introduced to the first concrete result of the Lexus Electrified vision laid out by the Japanese luxury automaker. The Lexus RZ is the brand’s first global all-electric model, and it is also, as you can tell from the looks of it and from any other number of clues, a close cousin to the recently introduced Toyota bZ4X.

“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. DIRECT4, the core technology of ‘Lexus Electrified,’ is (an) all-wheel-drive system that achieves quick and linear response according to driver input. We will continue to take on the challenge of providing customers with new experiences and a uniquely Lexus BEV driving experience.”

- Takashi Watanabe, chief engineer, ‘Lexus Electrified’, Lexus International

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Built on the BEV-specific e-TNGA platform, the RZ was designed with optimal weight distribution in mind when placing the battery pack and motors. The crossover also features that DIRECT4 AWD system, as well as a new steering control and (available) Steer by Wire system, the latter only coming to Canadian models a little further down the road after launch.

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