Lexus RZ450e: Embracing the Electric Revolution

author: FutureCar Staff    

Lexus and its parent company Toyota have been leaders in hybrid engines, but have been slower to adopt electric vehicles. However, they have now released the RZ450e, their first all-electric vehicle. James Fisher had the opportunity to test drive it.

The car market has been rapidly changing in recent years, especially in terms of electrification. It's hard to believe that the first hybrid car, the Toyota Prius, was released in 1997. Shortly after that, Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, introduced hybrid versions of their RX model. These hybrids, the RX400h and RX450h, became popular choices for families.

Lexus has been a pioneer in the hybrid market for over 15 years, which is impressive considering that making hybrids was not seen as fashionable or urgent at the time. It's surprising, then, that it has taken them so long to create an all-electric vehicle. But now, the RZ450e is finally here.

Another long-standing institution that has been ahead of the curve is the Glastonbury Festival. Like Toyota and Lexus, the festival has been drawing attention to climate change and pollution for many years. It seemed fitting to test the RZ at Glastonbury, as these two brands of climate justice could learn from each other.

I had the unique opportunity to attend Glastonbury for the first time and drive an all-electric car for the first time. It was a weekend of new experiences.

When I first saw the RZ, I was pleasantly surprised. Unlike many modern cars that try to look futuristic, the RZ maintains a sense of composure while still looking new. The front end is particularly dynamic, and the lack of a conventional combustion engine allows for excellent visibility.

The interior of the RZ is also impressive. It has a futuristic design without being over the top, and the infotainment system features a large screen. The attention to detail is evident, with high-quality materials and comfortable seats. The car even has a fun "welcome" feature when you enter.

The RZ also offers practicality, with a decent-sized boot and spacious back seats. The panoramic glass roof adds to the overall experience, as it can be frosted or unfrosted with the push of a button.

However, the driving experience had its challenges. The RZ is equipped with numerous driving aids, including one that monitors the driver. While these features are meant to enhance safety, they can be overwhelming and make you feel like you're not in control. The constant beeping and pinging can be confusing, as the system doesn't provide clear explanations for each alert.

Despite these challenges, the RZ is a fun car to drive. The acceleration is impressive, and the handling is sharp thanks to the low center of gravity and advanced suspension. It offers a balance between excitement and practicality.

On the motorway, the RZ is smooth, quiet, and comfortable. It effortlessly covers long distances, making it a joy to drive. Even in busy city traffic, the RZ's acceleration and responsiveness make maneuvering easy.

One of the biggest challenges for electric vehicles like the RZ is convincing people that they can be just as good as traditional cars. After driving the RZ for a few minutes, you forget that it's an electric vehicle. And with a quick charge at a service station, you can continue your journey without much delay.

After spending five days at Glastonbury, it was reassuring to know that the RZ's battery charge hadn't depleted despite being parked in the sun. The car handled the journey home, even in heavy traffic, with ease.

While there are some issues, such as the limited range and the overbearing safety features, these can be improved over time. The RZ is a great choice for anyone considering an electric vehicle, especially since new petrol cars will no longer be available from 2030. Viva la electric revolución!

Lexus RZ: The details

Price: From £64,500

Range: Up to 271 miles (per the manufacturer), about 230 miles (as driven)

Charging time: About 25 minutes from 10 to 80%

FutureCar Staff