FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Lexus Hybrid Drive technology defies automotive convention. Like all truly ground-breaking ideas, it raises many questions. Here we provide answers for some of the most commonly asked questions.
How and when does a hybrid vehicle switch from petrol to electricity?
Depending on load requirements and driving conditions, Lexus Hybrid Drive switches automatically from petrol to electric, or a combination of the two power sources.
Is the acceleration of a Lexus Hybrid responsive or sluggish?
The electric motor in Lexus Hybrid Drive provides most of its torque at low speeds while the petrol engine offers plenty of power at medium and higher speeds. In combination, the two will provide surprisingly responsive performance the moment you touch the throttle.
How long will Lexus make Hybrids?
Lexus will continue to invest in hybrid technology because we believe it is the next great advancement in performance and economy. 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.
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. However, when driving the LS 600hL in 'EV' mode, you can drive slowly on electric power alone when you want to slip quietly up the driveway, or into the garage with no exhaust fumes.
Where are Hybrid vehicles built?
All Lexus Hybrid Vehicles are built in Japan. No decisions have been made regarding additional production locations.
How long does the hybrid battery last/stay charged?
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.
HOW RELIABLE IS LEXUS HYBRID DRIVE?
Many Lexus vehicles have been on the road for a while now and have travelled considerable distances. Over 1,000 hybrid vehicles have been sold in Australia to date. They have indicated that Lexus Hybrid Drive is as reliable as the Lexus engines in our petrol-powered vehicles.
Do you have to charge a Lexus Hybrid vehicle or plug it in?
No, Lexus hybrid vehicles never need to be plugged into an external power source. Lexus hybrid technology automatically recharges its battery using regenerative braking and by running the engine to generate electricity.
How fuel efficient are Lexus hybrid vehicles?
The ADR 81/01 tests have measured fuel consumption of the RX 400h at 8.1l/100km. The GS 450h delivers 7.9 l/100km and the LS 600hL an astonishing 9.3l/100km.
What are the characteristics of a Hybrid all-wheel drive vehicle?
With Lexus Hybrid Drive all wheel drive (AWD) system in the LS 600hL, power is delivered to the front and rear wheels via an AWD system which has been specially engineered for hybrid power, ensuring optimum grip whatever the road conditions. In the RX 400h, there is no drive-shaft 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.
What are the characteristics 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. Since the electric motors simply rotate smoothly without the typical noise of an exhaust system, Lexus Hybrid Drive is also remarkably quiet.
What are the additional Hybrid functions?
With the hybrid system, the transmission functions as an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) and the electric motors assist the internal combustion engine. So this type of a hybrid vehicle achieves smooth acceleration and deceleration, as well as excellent response.