Lexus RZ450e: Embracing the Electric Revolution

author: FutureCar Staff    

Lexus and its parent company Toyota have been pioneers in the hybrid engine market, but have been slower to embrace electric vehicles. However, that has changed with the release of the RZ450e. James Fisher had the opportunity to test drive the new electric vehicle.

The car market has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly in terms of electrification. It's hard to believe that the first hybrid car was released so long ago. The Toyota Prius, the first mass-produced hybrid car, was introduced in Japan in 1997. Shortly after, Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, followed suit by upgrading their RX model to the RX400h and RX450h, popular hybrid SUVs in the early 2000s.

Lexus has been a pioneer in the hybrid market for over 15 years, despite the lack of popularity and urgency surrounding hybrid vehicles at the time. It's surprising that it took Lexus this long to create an all-electric vehicle from the ground up. But now, the RZ450e has arrived.

Interestingly, another long-standing entity that has been ahead of its time is the Glastonbury Festival for Contemporary Performing Arts. Like Toyota and Lexus, the festival has been drawing attention to climate change and pollution for years. It seems fitting to test the RZ at this festival, where these two brands of climate justice could learn from each other.

Both Lexus and Glastonbury had something else in common: James Fisher. Before attending the festival and test driving the RZ, Fisher had never been to Glastonbury and had never 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 maintains its composure and still looks like a car. The front end is particularly dynamic, and the absence of a conventional combustion engine in the engine bay allows for excellent visibility while driving.

Inside the car, everything looks futuristic but not overly so. The infotainment system boasts a large screen, and there are many nice details and high-quality materials throughout. The seats are comfortable, and the car even gives you a "welcome" when you enter.

The RZ has a decent-sized boot and spacious back seats. It features a panoramic glass roof that can be frosted or unfrosted with the push of a button, giving it a touch of spy-like sophistication.

While the RZ is a technical marvel with various driving aids, Fisher found some of them to be overwhelming. The car can park itself, stay within the lines on the motorway, brake for the driver, and even steer without the driver's input. While these features are undoubtedly helpful, they can make the driver feel like they are not in control. Additionally, the car's safety features tend to ping unnecessarily, causing confusion for the driver.

Despite these drawbacks, the RZ is a fun car to drive. It has impressive acceleration, handles sharply, and provides a smooth and comfortable ride on the motorway. It excels in city driving as well, thanks to its snappy acceleration and response.

One of the biggest challenges for electric vehicles like the RZ is convincing people that they are not much different from traditional cars. After just five minutes of driving, Fisher forgot that he was driving an electric vehicle. The RZ's range of almost 200 miles is sufficient for most daily commutes, and recharging the battery at a service station only takes about 20 minutes.

After spending five days at the Glastonbury Festival, Fisher was pleased to know that he was contributing to the event's "net-zero" initiative by driving an electric vehicle. Despite being parked in a field for four days without moving, the RZ's battery charge remained intact. The car performed admirably during a five-hour traffic jam on the way home.

Although there are some issues with the RZ, such as its limited range and overbearing safety features, these are areas that can be improved over time. The RZ is a great choice for anyone looking to enter the electric vehicle market. Viva la electric revolución!

Details about the Lexus RZ:

• Price: Starting from £64,500
• Range: Up to 271 miles (per the manufacturer), approximately 230 miles (as driven)
• Charging time: About 25 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge

FutureCar Staff