By Steve Laser
Lexus held the world premiere of the new TZ all-electric premium SUV on May 7 at the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama in Japan. The new EV will expand the electrified lineup of the luxury brand in global markets including Japan, North America, Europe, and China.
“The new TZ represents a new standard in electrified luxury utility.” said Simon Humphries, Chief Branding Officer (above). “An all-new battery electric SUV that seamlessly combines capability, craftsmanship, and the demands of modern life. And many of those possibilities begin with something in short supply in the BEV segment. Space. The long wheelbase, made possible with the BEV architecture, allows us to unlock new levels of utility and versatility.”
As the first Lexus electric three-row SUV, the elegant exterior of the TZ showcases a design concept called Provocative Simplicity. The smooth and sleek character is said to feature a spindle body along with geometric graphics influenced by architectural design.
The above design sketch for the new TZ highlights the impressive silhouette. In addition to providing a distinctive profile, the TZ is said to be aerodynamically efficient. Design stage wind-tunnel mockups and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) result in a Cd of 0.27 for the upcoming production model, based on Lexus research and development targets.
Up front, the TZ features design details including Twin-L Signature Lamp with inward-facing L-shaped Daytime Running Lights and L-shaped outward-facing turn signals. While a large spindle grille featured on iconic Lexus models like the RX is not needed on a BEV, the TZ adopts spindle shapes in its front character lines.
The rear view is both simple and elegant, with a lowered roofline and body-flush components to assist aerodynamics. The tailgate has a smoothly shaped form, while Lexus includes a Rear L Signature Lamp that contributes to the style of simplicity.
Lexus plans to offer the new BEV in TZ 450e AWD and TZ 550e AWD models. The standard range lithium-ion battery pack is initially rated at 76.96 kWh, while the newly developed long-range battery is 95.82 kWh.
The new TZ employs the Lexus TNGA platform and features standard DIRECT4 AWD. With the large capacity battery, and high-output motors (167 kW/227 PS front, and 167 kW/227 PS rear) Lexus says the TZ targets a driving range of approximately 300 miles (varies by market and specifications; figures are based on Lexus research and development targets).
With a Driving Lounge concept, the TZ interior provides a relaxing environment. The driver is treated to a 12.3-inch multi-information display and 14-inch multimedia screen. Interactive Manual Drive offers eight virtual gear steps using paddle shifters, and is said to include the iconic sound of a Lexus V10 engine. Sensory Concierge is an additional feature designed to synchronize illumination, music, multimedia visuals, and climate control.
Lexus developed comfortable seating for all three rows of the spacious cabin. Front seats employ a new generation design with a lightweight, split construction that’s said to provide greater support along with a slim profile.
Second-row seats offer available ottomans, said to be an SUV-first for Lexus. A floor-mounted console between the seats can be removed to allow walkthrough access to the third row. Also available is a wide, sliding panoramic roof. Flexible cargo space is offered with individually folding second- and third-row seatbacks.
The Lexus Safety System+ offers a variety of safety and driver-assist systems including Radar Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, Pre-Crash Safety, Driver Monitor, Emergency Driving Stop System, Blind Spot Monitor, and Panoramic View Monitor.
Notes: Features, specifications, launch timing, and regional availability for future TZ production models are subject to change without notice. Prototype vehicles are shown in this story.
News source and photos courtesy of Lexus Global
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