Hybrid

The new power in high performance

Discover the exhilaration of a high performance petrol engine teamed with electric energy. Lexus Performance Hybrid has been developed to make intelligent use of both these power sources, to deliver outstanding acceleration yet low fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The battery never needs plugging in to an external power source as the petrol engine generates all the electricity that's needed. Even when you brake, this ‘kinetic' energy is captured as electrical energy and used to help charge the battery.

So find out how Lexus Performance Hybrid works, and see how far it can take you.

HYBRID FAQ

Lexus Performance Hybrid technology defies automotive convention. Like all truly groundbreaking ideas, it raises many questions. Here we address some of the most commonly asked ones.

Q. HOW AND WHEN DOES A HYBRID VEHICLE SWITCH FROM PETROL TO ELECTRIC POWER?

Depending on load requirements and driving conditions, Lexus hybrid technology switches automatically from petrol to electric, or a combination of the two power sources. This function cannot be switched on demand.

Q. IS THE ACCELERATION OF A LEXUS HYBRID SLUGGISH OR RESPONSIVE?

The Lexus hybrid's electric motor provides maximum torque off the line, while the petrol engine offers plenty of power at medium and high speeds. In combination, the two will provide surprisingly responsive performance.

Q. HOW LONG WILL LEXUS MAKE HYBRIDS?

Though some critics claim hybrids will go away soon, Lexus will continue to invest in hybrid technology because we believe it is the next great advancement in automobiles. Many leading automotive experts predict that hybrid technology will spread across all segments and into virtually all types of passenger vehicles. Manufacturers make (and stop making) vehicles based on customer demand. Once customers experience the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions, versatility, convenience and (in the case of Lexus) the luxury of a hybrid, there will be no turning back.

Q. IF I RUN OUT OF PETROL, CAN I USE ELECTRICITY TO DRIVE A LEXUS HYBRID VEHICLE?

No. Though Lexus hybrid technology allows the vehicle to operate on electric power at slow speeds when petrol is in the tank, it is not designed to run without petrol. Doing so could cause severe damage to the hybrid system, so drivers should be sure to keep petrol in the tank at all times, just like a conventional vehicle.

Q. WHERE ARE HYBRID VEHICLES BUILT?

They will be built in Japan initially. No decisions have been made regarding additional production locations.

Q. HOW LONG DOES A HYBRID BATTERY LAST/KEEP ITS CHARGE?

The hybrid battery is covered by a warranty for 5 years/100,000km, whichever comes first. In normal use, we expect the battery to last longer than the length of this warranty.

Q. HOW RELIABLE IS THE LEXUS HYBRID?

The system used in Lexus hybrid technology will be as reliable as Lexus engines in our petrol-powered vehicles.

Q. DO YOU HAVE TO CHARGE A LEXUS HYBRID VEHICLE OR PLUG IT IN?

No, Lexus hybrid vehicles never need to be plugged in. Lexus hybrid technology automatically recharges its battery using regenerative braking or by running the engine to generate electricity.

Q. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A HYBRID ALL-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE?

With the Lexus Hybrid Drive AWD system, there is no driveshaft connecting the front and rear axles. Power at the front axle is supplied by the hybrid system, and power to the rear axle is generated by a separate 50 kW electric motor.

Q. WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISITICS OF A HYBRID ENGINE?

The term 'hybrid' means there are two different sources of power. Current hybrid vehicles have both an internal combustion powered engine (like a conventional automobile) and an electric motor.

Q. WHAT ARE THE ADDITIONAL HYBRID FUNCTIONS?

With the hybrid system, the transmission functions as an Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission and the electric motor assists the internal combustion engine. So this type of a hybrid vehicle achieves smooth acceleration and deceleration, as well as excellent response.