Lexus RZ450e: Embracing the Electric Revolution

Lexus and its parent company Toyota have been leaders in hybrid engines for many years, but they have been slower to adopt electric vehicles. However, with the release of the RZ450e, Lexus is finally entering the electric vehicle market. James Fisher had the opportunity to test drive the RZ450e and share his experience.

The car market has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly in relation to electrification. It's hard to believe that the first hybrid car was released over two decades ago. The Toyota Prius, which debuted in Japan in 1997, was the first mass-produced hybrid car. Shortly after, Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, introduced hybrid models like the RX400h and RX450h.

Lexus has been a pioneer in the hybrid space for over 15 years, even when it wasn't fashionable or urgent to develop hybrid technology. However, it's surprising that it took them so long to create an all-electric vehicle from the ground up. But now, the RZ450e is finally here.

Glastonbury Festival for Contemporary Performing Arts, much like Toyota and Lexus, has also been ahead of the curve when it comes to raising awareness and funds for climate change and pollution. It seemed fitting to test the RZ450e at the festival, as these two brands share a commitment to climate justice.

Both Lexus and Glastonbury Festival had something else in common: James Fisher. He had never been to Glastonbury before, nor had he ever driven an all-electric car. The weekend was filled with first-time experiences.

When Fisher first saw the RZ450e, he 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 absence of a conventional combustion engine allows for excellent visibility while driving.

The interior of the RZ450e is also impressive. It has a futuristic design without going overboard, and the infotainment system features a large screen. The car's attention to detail, choice of materials, and comfortable seats create a pleasant driving experience. Fisher also enjoyed the car's welcoming features.

The RZ450e offers a decent-sized boot and spacious back seats. It also includes a panoramic glass window that can be frosted or unfrosted with the push of a button. Fisher was pleased with these features.

While the RZ450e is a technical marvel with various driving aids, Fisher found some of the safety features to be overbearing. The car has autonomous capabilities that can intervene in various driving situations, such as braking or steering to avoid accidents. While these features come from a good place, they can be frightening and make the driver feel out of control. Additionally, the system's notifications can be irritating and unclear.

Despite these drawbacks, Fisher found the RZ450e to be a fun car to drive. The acceleration is comparable to that of a sports car, and the car handles sharply due to its low center of gravity and advanced suspension. It offers a balance between excitement and practicality.

On the motorway, the RZ450e provides a smooth and quiet ride, making long trips enjoyable. Even driving through London, Fisher found the car's acceleration and response to be excellent for maneuvering through traffic.

One of the biggest challenges for electric vehicles like the RZ450e is to convince drivers that they can offer a similar experience to traditional cars. However, Fisher believes that the RZ450e succeeds in this regard. After just five minutes of driving, he forgot he was in an electric car. The car's range is sufficient for most journeys, and recharging at a service station is a relatively quick process.

After spending five days at Glastonbury Festival, Fisher was pleased to know that the RZ450e helped contribute to a net-zero event. Despite being parked in the sun for several days, the car's battery charge remained unaffected. The RZ450e performed well in heavy traffic, providing a comfortable experience for both the driver and passenger.

While the RZ450e has some issues, such as its range and overbearing safety features, these are expected to improve over time. The car offers a solid foundation for those interested in venturing into the electric vehicle market. Fisher believes that the RZ450e is a great starting point for anyone considering an electric car.

Lexus RZ450e details:

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