Lexus Thailand Debuts Latest Electric Vehicle from Lexus Electrified The New All-Electric Lexus RZ At The 44th Bangkok International Motor Show

Mr. Supakorn Ratanawaraha, Executive Vice President of Lexus Group, Toyota Motor Thailand Company Limited, introduces the “New All-Electric Lexus RZ”, an ultraluxury vehicle that embodies the pinnacle of advanced design, distinctive style, and leading-edge technology, along with world-class safety standard at The 44th Bangkok International Motor Show, from 22 March – 2 April 2023, at Challenger Hall, IMPACT MUANG THONG THANI.

Mr. Supakorn Ratanawaraha said at the car launching press conference, “At Lexus, we have always focused on the development of alternative energy vehicles since the introduction of a luxury SUV that comes with a hybrid system like the “RX 400h” for the first time in 2005 under the vision of “Lexus Electrified” to meet different lifestyles. Lexus offers a variety of powertrain alternatives, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric vehicles. More importantly, we plan on introducing all types of electric vehicles by 2030 and to sell 100% electric vehicles globally by 2035, with the goal of becoming a carbon-neutral company by 2050. Currently, LEXUS Electrified vehicles have sold over 2 million units worldwide, contributing to a reduction of over 19 million tons of CO2 emissions.”

“Today, it is my pleasure to introduce the latest addition to the Lexus family – The New All-Electric Lexus RZ. This vehicle has been engineered to embody the true essence of an electric car while retaining the unique aesthetic that is synonymous with the Lexus brand. The RZ features the Lexus Driving Signature, which is testament to Lexus commitment to providing a unique driving experience. This is made possible through the e-TNGA body structure technology developed by Lexus, as well as the strategic placement of the electric battery, resulting in a low center of gravity combined with DIRECT4 AWD. Essentially, this advanced system helps distribute driving force to the front and rear wheels, providing sharp responsiveness and smooth driving experience that is sure to delight drivers. The RZ delivers an unparalleled driving experience, offering drivers a seamless and enjoyable ride while accelerating, steering, and braking. With its unique design and advanced features, this vehicle is designed to create memorable journeys that are sure to leave a lasting impression.”

“The RZ also boasts a distinctive and one-of-a-kind design. The “Seamless E-Motion” design concept reflects the agility of an electric vehicle, and the Spindle Body concept has been used to the redesign of the front grille to produce a distinctive appearance by fusing art with cutting-edge manufacturing technology. The back design is simple and understated, with a striking long, sharp LED light line that makes a bold statement. The interior has been thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of connection with the nature, featuring a panoramic glass roof with an intelligent dimming function that creates a spacious and airy ambiance inside the cabin. The front console has been designed with the driver at the center, using the TAZUNA COCKPIT concept, providing natural and comfortable control of the vehicle’s functions. Additionally, the RZ is equipped with several cutting-edge technologies and amenities, along with world-class LEXUS Safety System Plus features which include an intelligent parking assistance system for added convenience, Safe Exit Assist which prevents doors from opening when another vehicle is approaching. The car also utilizes bio-based sustainable materials as the upholstery is made from plant-based ultra-suede, providing a luxurious texture similar to high-quality suede, reflecting Lexus’ environmentally friendly commitment. Powered by an electric powertrain, the RZ delivers outstanding performance with an adequate driving range provided by the 71.4 kW battery and can be charged up to 80% in just half an hour using DC power. With a total system power of 308 horsepower, the vehicle can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, making it an impressive electric sports car. More importantly, the car comes with a battery warranty of 8 years or 200,000 kilometers,” Mr. Supakorn proudly summarized.

The New All-Electric Lexus RZ

         Lexus has pioneered the world’s first luxury crossover since the introduction of the Lexus RX in 2005 and has then continued to make improvements in every aspect. A team of engineers and designers set out to create the new Lexus RZ by conveying driving enjoyment in an eye-catching, captivating, and evocative design and proportions. And while driving, you can genuinely enjoy the thrilling performance even more.

Exterior design focuses on creating a distinctive identity and a shape that is appealing at first glance

         The iconic Spindle Grille, a hallmark of Lexus design for many years, has undergone a redesign to create a Spindle Body that expertly blends the art of design with state-of-the-art production technology. The result is a stunning three-dimensional front fender that gracefully hugs the center of the body on both sides. The headlamps feature single projector Bi-AHS (Adaptive High-beam System) technology, ensuring even and clear light distribution, while the turn signals and driving L-shaped DRL (Daytime Running Light) lights convey a deep, captivating look. The taillights extend across the length of the vehicle, forming a slim, elegant line that further accentuates the unmistakable Lexus identity.

Interior design is crafted with TAZUNA concept, making it effortless to control and operate.

• Interior panel: The control panel is positioned at a low level, ensuring that it does not interfere with the driver’s line of sight. Additionally, the console panel situated between the front seats boasts a simple and uncluttered appearance, promoting a sense of spaciousness and airiness. The use of Omotenashi philosophy is evident in the soft and comfortable Ultrasuede* leather seats, which provide a luxurious touch, and the exquisite wood-patterned surfaces that add a touch of elegance to the overall design.
• Cabin space: The longer wheelbase provides additional space in the rear seats, with a distance of 39.3 inches between the left and right sitting positions that creates a sense of roominess. This feeling of openness is further enhanced by a panoramic roof* that stretches from above the front seats to the rear seats.
• The center console features a 14-inch wireless Apple CarPlay touch screen that allows for easy and natural operation of various functions through the use of on-screen switches. The screen’s size, shape, angle, installation position, and data display format have all been thoughtfully designed to provide seamless user experience. Additionally, the frequency of running various functions has been optimized to enhance usability.
• The driving position has been designed based on Tazuna Cockpit concept which takes its name from the reins used to control a horse. In this design, the driver is positioned at the center of the vehicle, with all controls and functions arranged around them in a natural and easy-to-reach manner. The steering wheel is equipped with switches that connect to the Head-up Display*, enabling the driver to maintain focus on the road ahead. Additionally, various functions, including navigation and voice control, can be operated comfortably from this centralized driving position.
• The color head-up display* projects important information onto the bottom portion of the windshield, ensuring that it matches the driver’s view while driving. This display has been designed to focus on presenting critical driving information without distracting the driver from the road or their surroundings. It offers three display modes, allowing the driver to select the mode that best suits their preferences and driving conditions.
• The touch-sensitive steering wheel controls* are equipped with finger position sensors that detect which buttons the driver’s fingers are placed on. These controls are designed to allow the driver to press various buttons without looking down at the steering wheel. A diagram of the button and finger positions is displayed on the head-up display screen, enabling the driver to make their selections with confidence and ease.
• The gauges* provide various details that are designed to be easily read while driving. The information displayed is accurate, reliable, and includes a continuous navigation display that calculates the estimated time of arrival. In addition, the driving assistance system status and driving distance are also clearly indicated.
• The door panels are adorned with dimensions of light and shadow, which create a unique and beautiful aesthetic. As the door opens and closes, the interplay of light and shadow adds depth and character to the cabin, providing an extra touch of elegance.
• The rotary gear control knob is conveniently located in the center console and allows for easy shifting by pressing and turning to the desired position. This system, known as Shift-by-Wire, provides a feeling of stability and precision, while also enhancing the identity of a true BEV electric vehicle.
• The ambient lighting in the cabin is inspired by natural phenomena, and Lexus designers have created a total of 14 interior color themes that emit a soft, gentle glow from the console area. Moreover, the display screen in the center console can be customized to change up to 50 additional colors, allowing for a fully personalized driving experience.

Electric power propels the Lexus Driving Signature forward

         The Lexus Driving Signature is one of the fundamental features of every Lexus vehicle, representing the driving experience that we meticulously tailor to the driver’s preferences. We aim to provide an intuitive and responsive driving experience that is enjoyable in every aspect, whether accelerating, steering, or braking. In the Lexus RZ, we have combined these features with our advanced electric vehicle technology to deliver a driving experience that feels “natural”, thanks to the precise control of the motor’s torque and the proper placement of the motors and electric batteries for a balanced weight distribution and quick driving response. The DIRECT4 AWD (four-wheel drive) transmission also plays a crucial role in distributing thrust to the front and rear wheels as required. This car is designed to be driven, and it represents a new and more impressive form of the Lexus Driving Signature. 

• DIRECT4 system processes information from wheel speed, acceleration, and steering angle sensors to adjust the distribution of thrust between the front and rear wheels ranging from 100:0 to 20:80 (front:rear). This enables the car to start quickly and maneuver with agility, while also enhancing stability and reducing energy consumption. By avoiding unnecessary changes in the driver’s and passengers’ point of view as the car moves, DIRECT4 helps reduce driving fatigue and increase passenger comfort. The system also provides sharp forward thrust when taking off from a stationary position or accelerating in a straight line. During cornering, it adjusts the power output to maintain control and deliver smooth cornering performance. With DIRECT4, the driving experience is intuitive, engaging, and enjoyable.
• Stability control while braking: The RZ features an independent electromechanical braking system that is hydraulically controlled, providing stable and coordinated power feedback to the electric battery from all four wheels. With the stability control system while braking, drivers can experience increased confidence and control through precise brake control that follows the pressure of the foot. The system also enhances stability by distributing the braking force between the front and rear wheels, enabling the car to better grip the road. Additionally, it helps keep the car in control and reduces the need for the driver to look back and forth while driving, ensuring a more precise driving experience.
• The BEV system delivers powerful performance with a practical driving range, using eAxles on both front and rear wheels, and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery with efficient cooling. The compact design combines motors, power transmission, and converter into a single unit, reducing weight, increasing range per charge, and adding extra cabin and luggage space. The eAxle on the front wheel is housed in a short box, while the rear wheels are mounted low, further maximizing interior storage. The battery is integrated into the body structure, lowering the center of gravity, increasing structural strength, and improving cooling and charging efficiency. A heating system for the battery enables quick charging in cold weather, ultimately enhancing overall performance and safety.
• Electric charging: The RZ comes with a built-in charger that includes a charge level meter, charging status indicator, and a locking system for the charging compartment cover and head, ensuring safe charging for both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). Additionally, the My Room mode allows for the activation of various devices, such as the air conditioning and audio system, while charging the car. However, it should be noted that My Room* mode cannot be used while charging with V2H or a V2H power source.
• DC fast charging: The RZ features a quick-charging DC connector installed on the left front fender, supporting up to 150kW of power for rapid charging.
• AC charging: The AC charger socket is also located on the front fender, allowing for convenient charging from a household socket using AC power or through an AC charger. The system also offers automatic charging scheduling in two modes: scheduled start charging at a specific time or scheduled departure charging, which ensures the car is fully charged by a specific time.
• The car’s endurance: The body structure of the RZ is reinforced using screws, pins, and laser welding techniques (Laser Screw Welding and Laser Pinning Welding). This ensures a sturdy frame, improves vehicle stability and enhances passenger comfort during travel. Additionally, the double-ring structure and high-strength foam used in the rear door frame helps prevent any twisting or warping.

• Lightweight body: The RZ boasts a lightweight, yet rigid chassis. It’s A and B pillars, as well as its front rail, feature a composite structure in which 1.8GPa and 1.5GPa tensile metals are overlapped and welded together into a flat sheet that is then hot stamped into the desired shape. The roof’s core is made of 1,470MPa high tensile strength sheet steel, while the bonnet is composed of lightweight aluminum. The doors, wheel arches, and tailgate trim are molded from lightweight foam resin, further reducing the car’s weight.
• Suspension: The RZ’s suspension system consists of a McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension with a trailing arm. The front suspension features an FRD II shock absorber system that provides varying levels of shock absorption depending on the road surface, ensuring both stability and comfortable ride quality. This innovative system is specifically designed for the RZ’s BEV structure, allowing it to effectively maintain the distinctive Lexus Driving Signature.
• Aerodynamics: RZ is originally designed as a BEV, and to reduce drag coefficient (Cd) for longer driving range per charge. The top of the RZ’s roof features a spoiler that helps create a spinning airflow to reduce wind resistance on the body and blockage, making the car more stable and steady while driving. The rear of the roof is designed to smoothly channel wind from the rear mirror to the rear of the car. The short duck tail spoiler at the rear helps distribute air and keep the car stable at high speeds. The underbody of the car is covered with a smooth panel to reduce wind resistance, and a small bump is added to create a spinning airflow that enhances road grip and stability while driving. In addition, the low-positioned front bumper and absence of unnecessary air ducts help improve the aerodynamics of the RZ.

Enjoy serenity and synthetic sound crafted by Lexus

• For optimal comfort, every Lexus vehicle cabin must be free from unwanted noise. We meticulously attend to every detail to create the most tranquil and comfortable atmosphere possible. We control the flow of air around the car to reduce wind noises and place the electric battery on the vehicle’s floor to increase road noise absorption. This ensures that traveling in a Lexus car is a relaxing experience, conducive to conversation between the driver and front-seat passenger, as well as rear-seat passengers, even when traveling at high speeds.
• Cabin Soundproofing: To ensure maximum quietness in the cabin, the electric battery is strategically positioned underneath the car’s floor to block road noise. Besides, the gaps between the car’s bonnet and body are filled to prevent any noise leakage. The front and rear doors are equipped with acoustic glass and reinforced with transverse door edge rubber to further reduce noise. Sound absorbers and vibration damping materials are inserted in the roof panel, the base of the front and middle pillars, and under the fenders. They are also placed in the gaps between the hood and windshield, as well as under the hood and wheel arches.
• Active Sound Control (ASC): While driving a car, it is important to have some level of sound to communicate with the vehicle. Therefore, the best silence for a car is not the complete absence of any sound. Lexus engineers have recognized this and developed a unique sound for the cabin that enhances the driving experience. In the Lexus RZ, you can hear a sound that changes with the speed of the car, providing a natural feeling of performance and speed. The powertrain sound has also been fine-tuned to ensure a pleasant driving experience.

Create a comfortable environment with Lexus’ subtle functions

• The heated diffuser is installed under the steering column and lower instrument panel to increase the warmth of the rider’s and front passenger’s legs. The system is designed to turn off automatically and immediately reduce the temperature when touched by the user. It works in conjunction with the seat heater and air conditioning systems without increasing the burden on the electric batteries.
• The intelligent air-conditioning control system measures the temperature from various touchpoints such as the front seats, steering wheel, and rear seat. It works with automatic air conditioning systems to adjust the temperature independently in 3 zones as appropriate.
• The panoramic glass roof comes with an intelligent dimming function* that enhances the airy atmosphere in the cabin. The roof is made with Low-e glass that blocks 99% of heat and UV rays, providing enhanced comfort even in sunny conditions. The dimming function works automatically, thus eliminating the need for a sunshade.
• The e-latch intelligent door lock system has been inspired by the convenience of sliding Japanese paper shutters. To get on the car, simply touch the switch inside the door handle outside the car, and the door will be ajar for immediate opening. To get out of the car, press the switch on the handle inside the car and push the door out in one step. In case of an electrical system failure, the handle can be pulled twice to open the door in the normal way.
• Wireless charging stand for smartphones hidden in the storage box in front of the center console. To charge a phone or device that supports wireless charging, simply place it onto the charging dock.
• The storage space under the console provides extra space for storing car manuals or multi-purpose items, while also increasing legroom for front passengers. The console that runs between the driver’s and passenger’s seats adds to the sense of cleanliness and openness.
• The nanoeX technology is used as Lexus RZ’s air conditioning system, which utilizes nanoe negative ion emitters to purify the air in the cabin and create a fresh environment along your trip.
• The rear console box features 2 USB-C charging ports, DC12V, and AC on the bottom panel of the rear console, making it convenient to use digital devices while sitting in the back seat.
• The luggage room provides ample space for the BEV, easily fitting up to 3 full-size golf bags or 140L and 90L luggage simultaneously. The optimal placement of the electric propulsion system provides enough storage space to meet your needs. Additionally, the luggage compartment curtain opens and closes automatically when the end cap is opened or closed, or it can be removed when carrying high items. The luggage room is illuminated with LED lights on the sides and on the rear cover.

World-class safety technologies

• Pre-Collision System uses radar and sensors to detect vehicles, pedestrians, or foreign objects in front of the vehicle and estimates the potential for a collision. If a potential collision is detected, the system will notify the driver with a sound signal and message on the display. It is ready to automatically increase braking force or, if the system estimates that there is a high likelihood of a collision with an approaching vehicle, the system will send an alarm to the driver and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate potential damage.

• Cruise Control System (all speed ranges) allows the driver to set a desired speed without having to step on the accelerator. If the radar and camera sensors detect other vehicles in front of the car, the system will automatically adjust the speed to maintain a safe distance.
• Lane Tracing Assist and Lane Departure Alert system helps keep the vehicle safely on course. If the car starts to drift out of the lane, the system will warn the driver and assist with steering to maintain the proper course. When driving on the highway or a private road with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control engaged, the LTA system can also assist with steering to keep the car on track.
• Lane Change Assist system works with the LTA system to aid in changing lanes. It checks for other vehicles in the adjacent lanes and activates when the driver activates the turn signal. The system will automatically turn off the turn signal after the lane change. This feature is available on highways or on roads with clear lane markings.
• Adaptive High-Beam System* enhances safety during night driving by monitoring the beam of light from oncoming vehicles, as well as the rear lights of the car in front or the Lexus RZ high beam light source. The system selectively dims each LED in each high beam package to prevent disturbing other vehicles, and they will turn back on when the vehicle moves out of the Lexus RZ’s high beam radius.
• Automatic High-Beam System** adds convenience to night drive by automatically switching between high and low beams. It detects other vehicles in front or in the opposite lane and switches to low beams to prevent dazzling them. When the vehicle moves away, it switches back to high beam to maximize visibility.
• Lexus Teammate Advanced Park makes parking easier in open spaces. To use it, stop the car next to the desired parking spot and press the system button. The parking area will be displayed on the screen for confirmation. After checking the environment, press the “Start Parking” button and release the steering wheel and brakes. The system will then take over and automatically park the car, controlling the steering wheel, accelerator, brakes, and gear. It provides a bird’s-eye view of the parking environment, including obstacles, and automatically brakes when approaching a potential collision.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) enhances lane change safety by using the rear bumper’s corner radar to detect vehicles in the side lanes that are in the blind spot, which may be difficult to see through the side mirror. If a vehicle is detected, the system will provide a vibrating alert and a warning signal on the side mirror on that side.
• Safe Exit Assist, in conjunction with BSM, identifies approaching vehicles or bicycles behind the car. If detected, the system will display a warning signal on the relevant side mirror to prevent the driver or passenger from opening the door. If an attempt to open the door is made, the e-Latch system will not unlock and will display a warning signal with flashing lights on the side mirrors and the screen.
• Parking Support Brake (PKSB) is capable of detecting static objects, vehicles, and pedestrians approaching the rear of the car*1 in a wide area while reversing out of a parking space. If any of these objects are detected, the system will control both the brakes and the accelerator to avoid collisions and ensure that the car can be safely reversed.
• Panoramic View Monitor utilizes data from cameras located at the front, sides, and rear of the vehicle to clearly provide a comprehensive, high-angle view of the car’s surroundings. This is especially useful for detecting blind spots and obstacles that may be difficult to see from the driver’s seat. The system offers three display modes to choose from: “see-through” which allows drivers to see through the car; “side clearance” which helps estimate the distance on both sides of the car; and “cornering” which shows the car’s position when turning in narrow passages. Overall, the system is thoughtfully designed to help prevent possible collisions with obstacles and improve overall driving safety.

*Only for Premium grade

**Only for Luxury grade

The All New Lexus RZ 450e  

Synchronous Alternating current Motor (Permanent magnet type)

Front motor     Max power  201 / 204 / 150 Kilowatts / Horsepower

Max torque  226.3 Nm

Rear motor      Max power  107/ 109 / 80 Kilowatts / Horsepower

Max torque 168.5 Nm

Total power  308 / 312 /230 kW

Lithium-ion Battery  

Maximum voltage 355.2 volts

Battery capacity  201 amps/hour

Number of battery cells 96 cells

Battery power 71.4 kWh/hour

Support AC/DC charger (front left side)  Type 2 (11kW) / CCS (150kW)

Charging time for alternating current (AC) 6.5 hours

Fast Charging Time (DC) 30 minutes

Performance

Top speed 160 kilometers/hour

Acceleration rate 5.3 kilometers/second

Average Co2 pollution 0 g/kilometer

Average maximum distance 470 kilometers* (*NEDC standard)

Choose to own The All New Lexus RZ 450e available in 6 colors:

• Sonic Quartz                                      –    Sonic Chrome                 
• Sonic Iridium                             –    Graphite Black Glass Flake               
• Sonic Copper  –    Aether Metallic (new color)                                            

There are 2 interior colors for the RZ 450e, including Hazel and Grayscale for Luxury Grade (Synthetic leather) and Premium Grade (Ultrasuede)    

Own The All New Lexus RZ 450e NOW

Price (VAT Included)

• RZ 450e                Luxury                        3,870,000 THB
• RZ 450e                Premium                    4,190,000 THB

Every Lexus RZ comes with the Lexus LXP Standard package, which includes an extended warranty for 5 years with unlimited mileage, providing added confidence for owners. Furthermore, the lithium-ion battery is covered under warranty for up to 8 years or 200,000 kilometers.

The Lexus RZ can be reserved through Lexus Online Booking at www.lexus.co.th starting 21 March 2023 at 15.00 hrs. The first 10 people to book through the online system will be guaranteed to receive the car before anyone else and will enjoy an exclusive souvenir to celebrate Lexus’ 30th Anniversary.

Experience greater convenience with the KINTO ONE service, a long-term car rental service that covers all expenses and allows you to choose the duration and distance. The monthly service fee for the Lexus RZ starts at 69,990 THB/ Month

In addition, Lexus offers a superior lifestyle for customers who purchase any model from official Lexus dealers as follows:

• As a Lexus Club member, you have access to exclusive benefits, such as Lexus Privilege, via the “Lexus Elite Club” mobile application.
• Furthermore, Lexus Service Corner is available at 15 officially authorized Toyota service centers nationwide, providing Lexus-standard services. If you ever require assistance, the Home Visit Mobility Service will dispatch expert Lexus technicians to customers across the country.

The Lexus Exclusive Package offers exceptional privileges that provide you with confidence and peace of mind anywhere and anytime.

The Lexus Exclusive Package is a program that extends the warranty for 5 years with unlimited mileage. It also includes the Lexus Concierge Service and 24-hour emergency assistance, providing you with superior privileges that ensure your convenience and confidence at all times. The package also covers car maintenance costs for 5 years or up to 100,000 kilometers.      

LEXUS EXCLUSIVE PACKAGE provides a variety of extended warranty programs to meet your demands and help you save money in the long term.

• STANDARD Program offers complimentary service fees for 5 years or 100,000 kilometers. (50,000 THB)
• PLUS Program offers complimentary maintenance fees, including service fees and parts expenses, for 5 years or 100,000 kilometers. (Except for wearable parts) (70,000 THB)
• PREMIUM Program offers complimentary maintenance fees, including service fees and parts expenses for 5 years or 100,000 kilometers. (Inclusive of wearable parts) (90,000 THB)

For more information and updated news on Lexus, please visit www.lexus.co.th and online official account: Lexus Thailand