An Introduction to Lexus “Hybrid” Vehicles

What is a Hybrid Vehicle?

A hybrid vehicle by definition, is a vehicle that has two or more power sources. Most hybrid vehicles today have dual power sources, such as the pairing of a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor. Hybrid vehicles are popularly known for providing better fuel economy, cleaner and lower emissions, lower maintenance costs, and unrivalled levels of comfort and refinement—bringing benefits to both people and the planet.

Lexus Hybrid Drive

Ever since Lexus introduced the world’s first luxury hybrid, the RX 400h, over 200,000 Lexus owners and enthusiasts have embraced Lexus Hybrid Drive. Today, Lexus hybrid cars and SUVs are more powerful, fuel efficient and eco-friendly than ever. Their 2018 line-up consists of the ES 300h, GS 450h, LS 500h, LC 500h, NX 300h, RX 450h and RX 450h L.

Lexus hybrids never need to be plugged in. They recover and generate power while you drive, automatically recharging the hybrid battery. When you’re ready to drive, simply press the power button, and your journey will begin. Lexus hybrids are designed to provide breathtaking acceleration and a supremely quiet ride. Here’s how Lexus hybrids work:

Acceleration

Unlike some hybrid systems, Lexus hybrids are capable of operating with the gas engine only, electric motor only, or a seamless and extremely efficient combination of both. When you accelerate, the electric motor works on its own to drive the wheels. For rapid acceleration, or as you require more power to increase your speed, the gas engine assists the electric motor.

Cruising

A revolutionary Electronic Control Unit (ECU) controls the energy flow between the gas-powered combustion engine, advanced electric motor and high-capacity battery. When you reach your cruising speed, the power from the gas engine is split between the wheels and an electric generator that drives the electric motor. Excess energy is used to recharge the hybrid battery, minimizing energy waste.

Decelerating/Braking

The gas engine switches off immediately, stopping the creating of CO2 emissions when you take your foot off the gas pedal, or press the brake pedal. In response, the electric generator creates resistance to reduce the vehicle cruising speed. The electricity generated by this resistance is redirected to recharge the hybrid battery.

Stopping

When stopping, the Lexus hybrid is silent and emits no emissions since the electric motor is only active. If the hybrid battery is running low, the gas engine intuitively starts, generating the energy required to replenish the battery. This is just one of the reasons why Lexus hybrids are up to 70% cleaner than gas burning engines and diesels. Even when stopped, running systems like air conditioning comes from the hybrid battery. To avoid running down, the gas engine can intuitively start, generating the energy required to replenish the battery.

For more information on Lexus Hybrid Drive, visit Lexus Canada.