Lexus has refreshed its all-electric RZ SUV for the European market. It will go on sale in the autumn, imitating eight-speed transmission in a new spec called the 550e F Sport.
This new spec gets two e-motors jointly rated at 408 PS (402 hp / 300 kW) and the biggest, 77-kWh battery pack. Lexus also mentions springs and shocks fine-tuned for a sportier ride, an extended body kit and 20-inch wheels.
Drivers will be able to use paddle shifters at the steering wheel to imitate ICE car gear shifts. The electronics on board will adjust motor RPM counts accordingly. Fake drivetrain sounds and “current gear” display on the dash are included.
In reality, however, the new RZ is a steer-by-wire car. It means it has no physical link between the steering wheel and the wheels. Lexus stays optimistic about this design approach, claiming that drivers will still be able to engage with their ride on an emotional level. One has to wonder if a new yoke-shaped steering wheel coming to replace its traditional round counterpart is up to the task.
Power has increased across the board. Aside from the 550e mentioned above, the RZ will debut in Europe in 350e and 500e variants. The former has 224 PS (221 hp / 165 kW) at its disposal, while the latter packs two motors and 380 PS (375 hp / 279 kW).
Range figures have also been improved. Lexus promises up to 100 km (62 miles) in range gains depending on your chosen spec. Another good news is that a new 22-kW charger shipping with the car shaves off roughly 30 minutes from the total charging time. It also helps that thermal regulation has been improved for the battery pack.