Single-motor Lexus RZ 300e emerges with 600km EV range

The 2024 Lexus RZ line-up has been expanded to include a cheaper single-motor/front-drive version called the Lexus RZ 300e.

Positioned below the current dual-motor/all-wheel drive Lexus RZ 450e that produces 230kW/435Nm and starts from $121,675 plus ORCs in Australia, the new Lexus RX 300e is now on sale in Japan but is still to be confirmed for launch Down Under.

The front-mounted electric motor produces 150kW and 266Nm of torque.

As per the 450e, the RZ 300e draws energy from a 71.4kWh battery, enabling the EV to cover up to 599km (WLTP) on a single charge.

That compares to the significantly shorter 400km range in the 450e.

The 599km figure was recorded on 18-inch wheels, while larger 19- and 20-inch rims are available as an option.

Considering the switch to single-motor power slashes around 100kg from the kerb weight, engineers have given the RZ 300e its own suspension tune, with different springs and dampers developed that are said to blend comfort and agility.

In Japan, the new Lexus RZ 300e has been priced around seven per cent lower than the standard RZ 450e.

If it gets the green light for Australia, a similar reduction could see it priced from around $113,000.

As well as introducing the RZ 300e, Lexus has announced that all RZ models will come with a battery heating system that has been designed to improve charging times in low temperatures.

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