For this particular model, the company has used materials and methods in order to reduce the weight of the frame
Lexus has introduced the new RZ 450e all-electric model, which is built on a platform exclusive to BEV models. During the design and development of the new zero-emissions model, the Japanese brand also emphasized the reduction of the car’s weight, as it is one of the most decisive factors that affect the road behavior of any car, and in the case of purely electric models, they have direct effect on autonomy as well.
Strengthening the car’s structure increases weight, which in turn affects energy consumption and dynamic performance. As a countermeasure, Lexus has used materials and methods to reduce chassis weight, helping to maintain range without compromising body rigidity, the release said.
Priority was given to reducing the mass of components higher on the vehicle to maintain a low center of gravity and reduce body roll when cornering. For example, 1470 MPa mild steel is used to strengthen the central part of the roof, and a patchwork material is used to strengthen the front and central pillars. The hood is made of aluminum, and the door and wheel arch moldings and tailgate trim are made of lightweight, cast resin, which uses less material but remains stiff and lightweight.
Although the battery electric drive system produces less noise compared to an internal combustion engine, its quiet operation makes the noise from the road and the outside environment more noticeable. The RZ’s engineers and designers made it a priority to ensure a calm and quiet cabin environment, adopting a three-point strategy: noise control, preventing noise from entering the cabin and paying particular attention to the noise experienced by rear passengers.
Noise and vibration reduction measures include full hood sealing that prevents airflow from escaping through gaps, reducing rumble and noise. Inside the RZ, the thickness of the dashboard’s internal sound insulators has been calculated to reduce the gap between peripheral components and achieve better insulation and noise absorption.
The large roof area is the primary source of driving noise. To counter this, a vibration damping sheet has been added which makes the roof structure more rigid, with a significant impact on noise and vibration levels. Other measures include foam coating at the base of the front and center pillars, sound-absorbing glass in the front and rear doors, and the installation of panels and insulating material covering the gap between the hood and the windshield, the dashboard, hood, fenders and domes of the wheels.
The RZ features a new version of active sound control, which uses surround sound to introduce noise-cancelling frequencies into the cabin through the sound system’s speakers.
Source: Skai
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