Lexus adds fully-fledged electric model

The fully electric Lexus RZ has gone on sale — its version of the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra clones.

RZ is the one with the optional monitor that stops the car and calls emergency services if the driver is drowsy or looking sideways.

That’s if it determines that the driver’s posture is severely compromised and that it is difficult for the driver to continue.

Yeah, that Lexus. Can’t see too many customers picking up the tab for that one.

RZ is the first EV to come from the manufacturer that sits on a dedicated electric platform.

There’s three grades to choose from: Lexus RZ 450e Luxury ($123,000), RZ 450e Sports Luxury ($135,000) and RZ 450e Sports Luxury with two-tone finish ($139,200).

It’s powered by the same compact and efficient 71.4kWh lithium-ion battery, with 230kW of power and 435Nm of instant torque to all four wheels.

The front motor of the RZ 450e is taken from the front-wheel drive version of the bZ4X, while the rear unit is taken from the all-wheel drive version of the same car.

Instant torque and all-wheel traction propel RZ from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.3 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 160km/h.

Driving range from a single charge is a claimed 450km (WLTC).

RZ ushers in new design elements for Lexus, with the trademark Lexus spindle grille now more prominent as the shape extends through the vehicle body.

Lexus Australia Chief Executive John Pappas said the new RZ retains all the signature Lexus elements customers have come to appreciate, but now with zero exhaust emissions.

All RZ grades come as standard with an 11kW on-board charger, which can recharge the vehicle in about 6.5 hours when connected to a three-phase power supply.

Recharging to 80 per cent capacity cuts the waiting time to just 30 minutes when hooked up to a DC fast charger.

Stunning MG Cyberster undergoes testing

The car comes with complimentary home charger installation, three years of complimentary charging with the Chargefox DC rapid charging network and a subscription to the leading Encore Platinum owner benefits program.

Lexus hopes to offer a fully-electrified range of Hybrid, PHEV and BEV luxury vehicles in Australia by 2030.