Lexus’s technical innovation, attention to detail and wholly human-centred approach to vehicle design are all reflected in the introduction of radiant heaters in the all-new Lexus RZ 450e battery electric SUV.
How does radiant heating work?
It is the first Lexus to adopt this new heating method which provides direct warmth to the driver and front seat passenger while working faster and using less energy than a conventional convection heating system. Panels installed beneath the steering column and the left-hand side of the instrument panel use infrared heating to warm the driver and front passenger’s legs directly. Delivering heat only where it is required reduces the load on the air conditioning system and helps preserve the vehicle’s driving range. Compared to a standard climate control system, energy consumption is reduced by around eight per cent.
This innovation demonstrates how Lexus designers are mindful of omotenashi, the traditional Japanese spirit of hospitality. In this instance, the front seat occupants experience a comforting sensation, like having a warm blanket wrapped around their legs. Safety is ensured, with the panels automatically reducing the heat to 43 ˚C should anyone come into contact with them.
The radiant heaters supplement the vehicle’s climate control functions and are provided in addition to seat and steering wheel heaters. They are integrated into the Lexus Climate Concierge, the multi-zone climate control system which automatically adjusts cabin, seat and steering wheel heating and colling systems to achieve optimum comfort for everyone on board, at all times.
Which Lexus models are equipped with this technology?
The radiant heating is included in the RZ Premium Plus Pack and RZ Takumi specifications.
This new innovative radiant heating system sounds excellent and can it be retrofitted to a nearly new NX Premium Plus model?
Hello Arthur, thanks for your kind words.
Unfortunately, we cannot recommend modifications like this.
Thanks.
This new radiant heating idea for drivers and passenger will probably be used in all cars in the future.Well done to Lexus for bringing this to the new car market.
Take an analogous approach to localised cooling.
LexuxRZ 450E
Radient beams can be harmdul for the human eye. How is safety ensured?
Hi Trond
As per our Lexus mag – safety is ensured, with the panels automatically reducing the heat to 43 ˚C should anyone come into contact with them.
Kind regards
That is all good for contact with the panels. But human eyes can get harmed from the actul radiant beams which goes beyond being in physical contact with the panels. Has this been taken into consideration?
Hi Trond
Safety considerations for radiant heating include the risk of overheating, electrical faults, and material flammability. Systems are designed with temperature controls and automatic shut-off features to prevent accidents. By maintaining a consistent temperature and directly warming passengers, radiant heating ensures comfort without the need for high air temperatures, reducing drafts and dry air, which can be unpleasant for passengers.
Kind regards