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At the core of all Lexus Hybrids is the advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which combines a powerful gasoline engine and a high-output electric motor. Together they work seamlessly to produce incredible power, while reducing harmful emissions. Three luxury hybrids. One groundbreaking technology.
Scroll down to learn more about hybrid technology. Or use the convenient quick links below.
Dual Power Sources
During fast acceleration, and when maximum power is required, Lexus Hybrid Drive simultaneously uses its gasoline engine and electric-drive motor to produce exceptional performance.
The electric-drive motor supplements the gasoline engine, providing higher torque. Which means a V6 engine feels more like a V8, and a V8 feels more like a V12.
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking allows the electric-drive motor to act as a generator when the vehicle is coasting or braking. Kinetic energy that normally would be lost during deceleration is captured and subsequently
converted into electric energy. This energy is then used to charge the battery, further increasing the hybrid system’s efficiency. The regenerative braking system is especially effective during stop-and-start city driving.
Advanced Compact Battery
Inside every Lexus Hybrid is a high-output, nickel-metal hydride battery designed to last for a minimum of 100,000 vehicle miles.
It stores the electricity generated by the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, helping to ensure the vehicle has the power it needs when it’s required.
Generator
A highly efficient generator converts surplus gasoline-engine power into electricity, which is then stored in the hybrid battery for future use.
This generator is also responsible for starting the gasoline engine whenever it’s required.
Energy Monitor
An energy monitor allows the driver to observe, at a glance, the power flow and fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Information is shown in the form of simple animated graphics. The energy screen displays the way power is
being routed to the drive wheels and when the battery is being charged. The energy monitor is standard on the LS Hybrid and GS Hybrid and available on the RX Hybrid.
Electronic Control Unit
Essentially the brain of the hybrid system, the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manages the power flow between the electric motor generator, battery and gas engine.
By constantly monitoring various driving conditions, the ECU allows the transmission to get optimal power and fuel consumption from the powertrain.
Transmission
Performance is further enhanced by the Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). Unlike typical automatic transmissions that have a fixed number of gear combinations, the Lexus Hybrid’s ECVT
allows for virtually unlimited combinations, maximizing the powertrain’s efficiency and allowing the driver to enjoy smoother acceleration. Even with everything the ECVT does, it requires no additional maintenance.
Planetary Gear Set
The planetary gear set manages the physical interaction between the gasoline engine, electric-drive motor and generator.
Despite its compact size, the planetary gear set provides yet another important service: seamlessly distributing power between the gasoline engine and the electric-drive motor.
Zero Emissions Mode
Typically, when a Lexus Hybrid starts up or is driven at low speeds, the vehicle produces no harmful emissions since it is being powered solely by the electric motor. The LS Hybrid also features an EV mode [2], which,
under certain conditions, enables you to drive the vehicle for short distances using only the power of the electric motor. This distance depends on battery charge and driving conditions.
[2] CAUTION! When driving a hybrid vehicle, pay special attention to the area around the vehicle. Because there is little vehicle noise in electric-only mode, pedestrians, people riding bicycles or other people and vehicles in the area may not be aware of the vehicle starting off or approaching them, so take extra care while driving.
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