Marvel Studio’s spectacular Black Panther movies have been a huge success. Not only are they, quite simply, spectacular entertainment that enthrals and captures the imagination of moviegoers across the world, but they have a plethora of deeper, more powerful meanings wrapped up in the story.
Wakanda’s warriors are powerful, highly trained and focused. They think quickly, they are agile, and they’re fast. These are all attributes that can also be attached to Lexus’ all-new 2023 RZ 450e. It’s a perfect partnership, which is why the Lexus RZ 450e makes a guest appearance in the new Black Panther: Wakanda Forever trailers.
An Electric Future
Ahead of the film’s much-anticipated global release, the RZ 450e has a sizzling debut of its own, taking part in three 15, 30 and 60-second spots called “An Electric Future”. Designed to showcase both the grace, power and agility of the formidable Dora Milaje as she dodges a host of pursuers, the trailer teams up this ferocious warrior with the electrifying RZ 450e.
The high-octane shorts have been directed by Anthony Leonardi III and feature General Okoye (played by Danai Gurira) getting ready to speak to the public on behalf of Wakanda. Things take a decidedly different turn as the speech turns into a high-speed chase in the Lexus RZ 450e.
The nimble and electrifying RZ 450e is more than a match for the Wakanda warriors. With a host of features such as One Motion Grip steering for total stability and ‘flickability’, flawless handling, courtesy of the DIRECT4 AWD, and on-demand power to both the front and rear axles, the RZ450e is in a class of its own when it comes to outrunning the competition, and the bad guys.
A wealth of new features
The Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)specific seating and digital rear-view mirror mean that General Okoye can see exactly what’s going on behind her as she uses her warrior skills to outwit her enemies. From every aspect, the RZ is the future of Lexus’ ‘Electrified’ design concepts. Sleek, powerful, and technologically advanced, it’s a car for the 21st century.
The enhanced battery delivers an impressive indicative range of over 400 KM and a full charge time of around 10 hours and 15 minutes from a 7kW wall box. A 150kW rapid charge setup will give an 80% capacity in around 25 minutes. The new e-TNGA platform integrates the battery into the chassis underneath the cabin. This lowers the centre of gravity, giving better handling and a stiffer chassis.
The newly developed McPherson strut suspension system delivers outstanding linear responsiveness, while the unique-to-Lexus Frequency Reactive Damper piston means a smoother ride and flawless, sure-footed stability.
Lexus and Black Panther – a long-term partnership
This is not the first time that Lexus has been associated with Black Panther. Sometimes, ‘product placements’ can feel a little forced. That’s not the case with the Lexus/Black Panther partnership. Two brands that share common ideals and principles have found an effortless and elegant partnership where the poise, power and precision of both the Lexus and the warriors of Wakanda are in perfect harmony.
It's a partnership that both Disney, who own the Marvel brand, and Lexus are delighted with. “By returning to our successful relationship with Marvel Studios for the highly anticipated sequel to ‘Black Panther’ we are taking this collaboration to another level,” said Vinay Shahani, Lexus vice president of marketing. “The technology, creativity, and imagination we encounter in the futuristic nation of Wakanda is a natural fit for the sustainable, global society Lexus envisions with the introduction of our most advanced vehicle ever, the fully-electric RZ 450e, further extending our electrified vehicle portfolio.”
“The power, elegance, and future-forward vision of the Lexus brand aligns perfectly with the Black Panther franchise. We couldn’t be happier to team up with Lexus once again to bring an action-packed story and supporting 360 campaign to life,” said Mindy Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Global Partnership Marketing at The Walt Disney Company.
“An Electric Future”, showcasing the remarkable Lexus RZ 450e, will be featured as part of an integrated marketing campaign and will play in cinemas around the world when the film is released on the 9th November.