Lexus RZ450e: Embracing the Electric Revolution

author: FutureCar Staff    

Lexus and its parent company Toyota have been leaders in hybrid engine technology for many years, but they have been slower to adopt electric vehicles. However, that has changed with the release of the RZ450e. James Fisher had the opportunity to test drive the new electric car.

The car market has seen significant changes in recent years, particularly in regard to electrification. It is hard to believe that the first hybrid car, the Toyota Prius, was released over 20 years ago in 1997. Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, followed suit by upgrading their RX model to create the RX400h and RX450h, popular hybrid SUVs in the early 2000s.

Lexus has been a pioneer in the hybrid market for over 15 years. At the time, it wasn't fashionable or urgent to create hybrids, especially considering the impact of climate change. However, it is surprising that it has taken Lexus this long to develop an all-electric vehicle. Now, with the release of the RZ450e, they have finally entered the EV market.

Glastonbury Festival, like Toyota and Lexus, has also been ahead of its time in raising awareness and funds for climate change and pollution. It seemed fitting to test drive the RZ at Glastonbury, where these two brands of climate justice could learn from each other.

Both Lexus and Glastonbury had something else in common: James Fisher. He had never been to Glastonbury before, nor had he driven an electric car. It was a weekend of firsts and lasts for him.

When Fisher first saw the RZ, he was pleasantly surprised. Unlike many modern cars that try to look futuristic, the RZ retains its composure and looks like a regular car. The front end is dynamic, and without a conventional combustion engine, the visibility is excellent. The interior is also impressive, with futuristic elements and a large infotainment screen. The materials and seats are of high quality, and the car even has a fun "welcome" feature.

The RZ offers a decent-sized boot, spacious back seats, and a panoramic glass roof that can be frosted or unfrosted with the push of a button. However, Fisher's positive experience was somewhat dampened by the car's driving aids. While they are undoubtedly meant to enhance safety, they can be overwhelming and make the driver feel like they are not in control. The constant pinging of warnings can be irritating, especially when the system doesn't explain what each ping means.

Fortunately, these systems can be turned off, and once Fisher got past the initial beeping, he found the RZ to be a fun car to drive. The acceleration is impressive, and the car handles sharply, thanks to its low center of gravity and advanced suspension. It offers both excitement and practicality.

On the motorway, the RZ is smooth, quiet, and comfortable. It effortlessly eats up the miles, making long drives enjoyable. Even driving through London was a breeze, thanks to the snappy acceleration and response.

The biggest challenge for electric vehicles like the RZ is convincing people that they are not much different from traditional cars. The RZ succeeds in this regard, as after just five minutes of driving, Fisher forgot he was in an EV. The range of almost 200 miles is decent, and recharging at a service station only took 20 minutes. The RZ also retained its battery charge well, even after being parked in the sun for several days.

Despite some minor issues, such as the limited range and overbearing safety features, the RZ is a great entry point for anyone considering an electric vehicle. As the world moves towards a future where new cars must be electric, the RZ offers a taste of the electric revolution.

Details about the Lexus RZ include a starting price of £64,500, a range of up to 271 miles (according to the manufacturer), and a charging time of about 25 minutes from 10% to 80%.

FutureCar Staff