After ushering in a new era of Lexus Electrified in January 2023 as the first all-electric vehicle in the brand’s lineup, the Lexus RZ sees several updates in 2024, including an all-new option – the RZ 300e with FWD. The RZ 300e has a higher EPA-estimated range rating of up to 266 miles, allowing customers more flexibility during their daily commute.
Also new in 2024, Copper Crest is added as an available exterior color option in mono- and bi-tone while a dual-voltage charging cable for 120V and 240 outlets becomes standard on all models.
RZ 300e
Powered by a 72.8kWh Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) lithium-ion battery and offered only with FWD, the 2024 RZ 300e realizes a total system horsepower rating of 201. The RZ 300e has an EPA-estimated range rating of 266 miles when equipped with 18” wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 137/112/125 (city/highway/combined). With 20” wheels, the EPA-estimated range rating is 224 miles and EPA-estimated MPGe rating is 114/96/105.
A subframe has been adopted for the FWD model, replacing the rear eAxle of AWD model. This subframe suppresses vibrations and noise, contributing to a smooth and quiet ride.
The 2024 Lexus RZ 300e has an MSRP of $54,000, plus a $1,150 destination charge.
RZ 450e
DIRECT4, an all-wheel drive system first introduced with the 2023 Lexus RX, is utilized in the RZ 450e and features a rear eAxle coupled with the engine and front motor. The DIRECT4 system utilizes two high-output, high-torque eAxle units that each drive a wheel set, one in the front (150-kW) and the other at the rear (80-kW). Three-point eAxle motor mounts, each using a lightweight aluminum bracket, are placed symmetrically on each side to counterbalance the eAxle’s torque.
The DIRECT4 system works to optimize drive force, traction, and posture control (e.g., pitch and dive) in accordance with driving conditions and the load carried by each wheel. DIRECT4’s front-to-rear torque distribution has a maximum range of 100:0 to 0:100, depending on the driving situation.
The RZ 450e’s 71.4 kWh battery, developed by Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (PPES), delivers on performance with a total system horsepower rating of 308 and a 0-60 acceleration time of 5.0 seconds. It has an EPA-estimated range rating of 220 miles when equipped with 18” wheels and an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 115/98/107 (city/highway/combined). When utilizing 20” wheels, the RZ 450e has an EPA-estimated MPGe rating of 102/87/95 with an EPA-estimated range rating of 196 miles.
Charging at Home or on the Go
For 2024, the RZ comes equipped with a new dual-voltage charging cable for 120V and 240V outlets. All models are also equipped with a CCS1 (Combined Charging System (CCS)) socket for at-home and public charging. Under ideal conditions, the RZ can charge from 0-100% in approximately 9.5 hours with a Level 2 charger and from 0-80% in approximately 30-35 minutes with a DC fast charger.
Further supporting at-home charging, participating Lexus dealers offer an option to purchase a ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 charger at the dealership or directly from ChargePoint online. ChargePoint Home Flex is ENERGY STAR certified and Wi-Fi enabled, can be installed indoors or outdoors, and comes with a 23-foot charging cable to support different parking configurations. With the ChargePoint Home Flex connected charger, under ideal conditions, electric vehicles can be charged up to nine times faster than with a standard 120V outlet. The home charger can charge up to 25 miles of range per hour and fully charge the battery when plugged in overnight.
