What kind of battery is in the Lexus RZ?
The Lexus RZ 450e relies on a high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery pack, designed to deliver usable energy in the mid‑range for an SUV of its class. In short, it uses a lithium‑ion pack with nickel‑manganese‑cobalt (NMC) chemistry, providing roughly 64–65 kWh of usable capacity from a pack that is about 71 kWh gross.
Battery type and chemistry
The RZ 450e’s propulsion is powered by a lithium‑ion battery pack. The chemistry used is nickel‑manganese‑cobalt oxide (NMC), a common choice for many modern EVs due to a balance of energy density and longevity. The overall energy package sits in the 70–72 kWh gross range, with usable capacity typically cited around the mid‑60s (roughly 64–65 kWh) to support everyday driving needs. The system operates at a high voltage in the vicinity of 355 volts, which is standard for many Toyota/Lexus EV platforms built on the e‑TNGA architecture.
Before we dive into the specifics, it helps to understand how the RZ’s battery is arranged and cooled. The pack is designed for floor mounting to keep weight low and center of gravity stable, and it uses liquid cooling and thermal management to maintain performance across charging and driving conditions.
- Chemistry: Nickel‑Manganese‑Cobalt oxide (NMC)
- Cell format: Lithium‑ion pouch cells arranged in modules within a floor‑mounted pack
- Gross energy capacity: about 71 kWh (roughly 71.0 kWh)
- Usable energy capacity: typically about 64–65 kWh
- System voltage: around 355 volts
- Thermal management: liquid cooling with an integrated thermal control system
- Pack location: under the cabin floor for a low center of gravity
- Durability and temperature range: designed for temperature‑controlled operation to optimize range and longevity
Key battery characteristics include the following:
Taken together, these features define the RZ’s battery profile and its influence on daily usability, charging speed, and cold‑weather performance.
Charging, range, and real‑world impact
The RZ 450e’s battery design supports regenerative braking and fast charging in markets where the infrastructure and vehicle software permit it. While exact charging speeds can vary by market, vehicle configuration, and battery state, the RZ is generally described as capable of DC fast charging and compatible with standard AC home charging. The usable capacity and efficiency of the pack help determine expected daily range under typical driving conditions, with real‑world results influenced by temperature, driving style, and terrain.
For prospective owners, the practical takeaway is that the RZ’s lithium‑ion NMC battery is designed to offer a balance of energy density, thermal stability, and longevity, packaged in a floor‑mounted assembly that helps optimize handling and interior space. While not a solid‑state battery, it aligns with current EV expectations for performance and reliability.
Summary
The Lexus RZ uses a lithium‑ion battery pack with nickel‑manganese‑cobalt oxide chemistry. It offers roughly 64–65 kWh of usable energy from a ~71 kWh gross pack, operates around a 355‑volt system, and benefits from liquid cooling and a floor‑mounted layout that supports a strong balance of range, performance, and practicality for an electric luxury SUV.
