The heating system of the Lexus RZ, technology for the winter months

Driving in the winter months, with the cold dominating the road and city streets can become quite uncomfortable. That is why it is advisable to use the car’s heating system. Fortunately, technology is also advancing in this area, and the functionality of these systems, which help you feel better on board the car, can continue to improve. The Lexus RZ is the brand’s first electric model based on a platform designed specifically for an electric vehicle.

This model uses a radiant heating system, which is more effective than traditional convection systems based on hot air. The Lexus RZ uses radiant heating. It consists of two panels located at the front of the cabin, which emit infrared radiation.

With this system, the radiation is used to heat solid objects as a priority around it. In this way, the driver warms up more quickly than with other methods. In terms of performance, this system allows a comfortable temperature to be reached for the driver with considerably less energy. Overall, the Lexus RZ’s heating technology uses 8% less energy than air-based heating.

This is important for an electric car, which lacks the residual heat generated by the combustion engine, normally used to produce the heat that passes into the cabin. As a result, generating heat requires energy from the battery, so saving on this is very important.

This technology complements the traditional convection-based system. The latter can be limited when the new radiant system is in use. The hot air can be switched off when this alternative system is used. In any case, the Lexus Climate Assistant manages the general heating, the new radiant heating, and the heating built into the steering wheel and seats, so that occupants stay comfortable and at the most pleasant temperature.

How it works

The infrared radiation heating system works thanks to two panels located at knee height. These create a sensation similar to placing a blanket over your legs. If, for any reason, the user touches the panel, its temperature drops to 42ºC to prevent burns.