Is Ajax Ready for an EV? How the 2026 Lexus RZ's New Range Conquers a Durham Commute

Electric vehicles work beautifully for city driving, but what about life in Durham Region? The 2026 Lexus RZ answers this question with updated battery technology that extends driving range to approximately 486 kilometres for the RZ 350e and 420 kilometres for the RZ 450e AWD. These figures change how we think about EV ownership in communities like Ajax, where daily life extends well beyond neighbourhood boundaries.

Expected to arrive at Canadian dealerships later this year, the updated RZ features a revised battery electric system with enhanced capacity and improved efficiency. The new range specifications address the real concerns that Durham Region residents have about electric vehicle practicality for suburban and commuter lifestyles.

A Typical Ajax Professional's Day

Sarah lives in Ajax and works in North York. Her morning commute via Highway 401 and the Don Valley Parkway covers roughly 65 kilometres each way. After work, she often stops at Durham Centre for groceries or picks up her daughter from activities in Pickering. Weekend errands might include a trip to Costco in Whitby or visiting family in Scarborough.

With the 2026 RZ 350e's approximately 486-kilometre range, Sarah can complete her entire week of driving—including that Friday evening trip to see friends in Mississauga—on a single charge. The RZ 450e AWD, with its 420-kilometre range and all-wheel-drive capability, provides similar freedom while adding confidence for cottage trips or winter driving.

This range eliminates the need for daily charging anxiety that has kept many suburban drivers from considering electric vehicles. The real-world driving scenarios that Durham Region residents face daily now fit comfortably within the RZ's capabilities.

Real-World Range in Southern Ontario Conditions

The 2026 RZ adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port, providing access to thousands of high-speed charging stations across Canada. Under ideal conditions, DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% capacity in around 30 minutes—perfect for a coffee break during longer journeys.

For daily charging, the improved 11 kW onboard AC charger handles Level 2 charging at home or work. This upgrade from the previous 7 kW capacity means faster overnight charging and more flexibility for busy schedules. Most Ajax residents can easily install a Level 2 charger in their garage or driveway.

2026 RZ Range Specifications

Beyond Range: The Complete EV Experience

Range considerations often overshadow the daily benefits of electric driving. The RZ delivers instant torque that makes merging onto Highway 401 effortless, while the near-silent cabin transforms stop-and-go traffic from stress into serenity. No more fuel stops, no more oil changes, and significantly lower energy costs compared to gasoline.

The Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system on AWD models intelligently distributes power between front and rear wheels based on driving conditions. During acceleration, the system can send up to 100% power to the rear wheels for optimal traction, while cornering situations see power distributed between 80:20 and 0:100 for precise handling.

The quietness becomes especially noticeable during phone calls or conversations. Unlike gasoline engines that create background noise, the electric drivetrain allows normal conversation volumes throughout the cabin, eliminating the need to raise voices that characterizes many conventional vehicles.

Charging Infrastructure Reality Check

Durham Region's charging infrastructure continues expanding, with Level 2 stations at many shopping centres and workplaces. The RZ's NACS compatibility opens access to Tesla's Supercharger network, dramatically increasing fast-charging options for longer trips.

For most Ajax residents, home charging covers daily needs. A typical night of charging on a Level 2 home charger easily replaces the energy used during commuting and local errands, meaning you start each day with a "full tank." The convenience of plugging in at home eliminates gas station visits entirely.

Public charging stations at locations like Durham Centre, Costco Whitby, and major shopping areas provide backup options for longer days or when home charging isn't available.

The F SPORT Difference

The new RZ 550e F SPORT AWD introduces Lexus's first virtual manual transmission system, called M Mode. Using paddle shifters, drivers can control power output as if using a manual transmission, complete with simulated engine sounds and a shift guide in the instrument display. This innovation addresses the emotional connection some drivers miss in traditional EVs.

With 408 system horsepower, the F SPORT variant prioritizes performance over maximum range, delivering thrilling acceleration while maintaining the 366-kilometre range—still adequate for Durham Region living plus weekend adventures.

Cost Considerations for Durham Region Living

Electric vehicle operating costs significantly favour EV ownership in Ontario. Electricity costs substantially less than gasoline per kilometre driven. Time-of-use electricity rates make overnight charging even more economical, with off-peak rates reducing energy costs further.

Maintenance requirements drop dramatically with electric drivetrains. No oil changes, spark plugs, air filters, or transmission services. Brake pads last longer due to regenerative braking. These savings add up significantly over the ownership period.

The 2026 Lexus RZ addresses electric luxury needs in suburban communities. With range that handles real Canadian lifestyles and charging compatibility that grows with infrastructure development, it removes the compromises that kept many Durham Region residents from choosing electric.

Key EV Advantages for Ajax Life:

• Home Charging: Start each day with full range
• Lower Operating Costs: Electricity costs less than gasoline
• Instant Torque: Effortless highway merging and passing
• Quiet Cabin: Transform commute stress into peaceful time
• Zero Local Emissions: Cleaner air for our communities
• NACS Compatibility: Access to expanding fast-charging networks

Visit Lexus of Lakeridge in Ajax, ON to learn more about the 2026 RZ lineup and discover how electric luxury adapts to Durham Region living.