After several speculations and teased shoots, the Japanese brand has finally unveiled its first bespoke electric SUV, RZ 450e. Lexus is always known for its hybrid technology, and now the brand has jumped on the electric bandwagon with its latest RZ 450e. However, Lexus introduced its first electric production car, UX300e, way back in 2019 , which was based on the same platform as its IC cars. Whereas RZ450e is based on the dedicated EV platform known as e-TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture). Lexus promises to achieve a carbon-neutral society by offering a full lineup of BEVs in all categories by 2030.<img class="aligncenter wp-image-13674 size-full" src="https://www.topgearmag.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Untitled520.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="533" />Lexus's signature spindle grille is now replaced by a BEV Spindle Body. The new front bumper design focuses on aerodynamic efficiencies and optimized proportions. The styling evolution ushers in a unique Lexus aesthetic and establishes a new design direction for BEV offerings.<img class="aligncenter wp-image-13675 size-full" src="https://www.topgearmag.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Untitled46.png" alt="" width="800" height="533" />On the inside, RZ450e gets a more sophisticated cabin layout. The brand has introduced the Tazuna concept to design and develop the interiors of the RZ450e, which is the Japanese automaker's approach to improving driving while being able to access the car's various functions seamlessly. The switches are precisely synced with the available Head-Up Display, easing out drivers to control functions such as navigation, audio, and drive mode selection while concentrating on driving.<img class="aligncenter wp-image-13676 size-full" src="https://www.topgearmag.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Untitled129.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="533" />The Lexus RZ 450e gets a 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers the 150kW front-mounted electric motor and an 80KW rear e-motor. The RZ450e makes 312hp of power and 435Nm of torque with an estimated range of around 362km. The model comes with a new 'Direct4' four-wheel-drive powertrain only option that can accelerate 0-100 in just 5.6 seconds. Lexus's DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system controls front and rear drive force according to driving and road surface conditions. It achieves driving performance where the vehicle directly responds according to the driver's input, taking the "Lexus Driving Signature" to an even higher level.<img class="aligncenter wp-image-13677 size-full" src="https://www.topgearmag.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Untitled28.png" alt="" width="800" height="533" />We are certainly not sure when the RZ450e will make it to our shores. Recently the brand has launched its fully hybrid NX350h, which left us quite impressing. You can read our first drive review by clicking <a href="https://www.topgearmag.in/2022-lexus-nx-350h-a-japanese-katana-first-drive-review/">here.</a> Following the brand's legacy, we believe the Lexus RZ450e would also be an exciting proposition for the Indian market if launched with the competitive pricing.
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