- The Lexus Interactive Manual Drive system recreates the experience of manual gear changes in an electric vehicle.
- Greater excitement and driving pleasure through a unique multi-sensory experience.
- Standard and exclusive to the new RZ 550e F SPORT electric SUV.
- The virtual eight-speed sequential transmission enables gear changes based on accelerator input and vehicle speed.
- The driver can experience sportiness at all times, using the paddles behind the steering wheel to interact with the engine and simulate manual driving; revving the engine to the redline, enjoying the sound of the system through the speakers and viewing each gear change on the digital instrument cluster’s rev counter.
The new RZ brings significant innovations to Lexus, thanks to the first-ever incorporation of new technologies that elevate the characteristic Lexus driving experience, known as the Lexus Driving Signature. Control, comfort and confidence reach a new level with solutions such as the Lexus Steer by Wire steering system and the seamless interaction with the first simulated sequential gearbox system for an electric vehicle, Lexus Interactive e-Manual Drive.
This ingenious system allows the new RZ 550e F SPORT to be driven in automatic or sequential manual mode, just as if it were a combustion-engine vehicle. To achieve this, it uses a virtual gear-shifting system that creates a deeper dialogue with the driver, conveying a greater sense of driving and connecting the RZ even more closely to the road.
Interactive manual driving opens up new opportunities for driving enjoyment, offering a unique experience with the vehicle, where you can harness its performance through throttle response and manual selection of the appropriate gear. This entire experience is made possible by operating the paddles located behind the jet-style steering wheel, Lexus Steer by Wire, having first selected manual mode on the control on the centre console, identified by the letter M. The system also utilises the audio system’s speakers to enhance the experience with the sound of a simulated combustion engine, amplifying the sensations behind the wheel.
How the system works
To enjoy the Lexus Interactive Manual Drive, available exclusively on the new RZ 550e F SPORT, simply press the M mode button located on the centre console next to the gear selector.
Once activated, a new gauge combining a rev counter and a gear indicator appears on the digital instrument cluster, helping to visualise throttle use and gear change points, assisting the driver in identifying the optimum moment to change gear. Gear changes are made quickly and intuitively using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, with the left paddle used to downshift and the right paddle to upshift.
How the Lexus Interactive Manual Drive works
The main component of the Interactive Manual Drive is a virtual powertrain and transmission integrated into the vehicle’s ECU. This unit collects data on accelerator input and monitors the vehicle’s speed to calculate the actual driving force at any given moment and display this information in real time on the digital dashboard’s rev counter.
In this way, the system is able to faithfully reproduce the rise and fall of engine revs and even prevent the vehicle from moving forward, simulating a cut-off that does not cease until the next gear is selected.
Thanks to these changes, the driver receives a multisensory reward in real time through the throttle response, G-forces, simulated engine sound and the information provided by the rev counter on the instrument panel.
A unique auditory experience
The sound generated by the system is specific to the Interactive Manual Drive and has been precisely tuned to enhance driving pleasure and provide an exhilarating experience. Furthermore, users can choose from three sound levels to find the perfect, personalised interaction with the new RZ.
In this regard, the sounds virtually reproduced through the audio system are closely synchronised with the vehicle’s speed and torque, contributing to a dynamic and immersive driving experience.
Duality in the driving experience
With the innovative Interactive Manual Drive system, Lexus gives the driver the freedom to tailor their driving experience. Furthermore, the driver can choose between the smooth, comfortable and powerful performance characteristic of Lexus electric vehicles, or opt for a more interactive, exciting and sporty experience.
About LEXUS
Lexus offers a 100% electrified range in Spain: hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. Models such as the LBX, UX, NX, RX and RZ stand out for their cutting-edge design and the brand’s renowned reliability.
With Lexus Relax, customers enjoy up to a 15-year warranty, allowing them to drive with complete confidence and peace of mind.
Its network of dealerships across Spain offers a unique experience inspired by Japanese Omotenashi.
Source: LEXUS SPAIN Press