Lexus South Africa
IS GS LS
IS-C
CT GS RX LS Technology
RX LX
IS-F LFA
Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

How and when does a hybrid vehicle switch from petrol to electricity?
Lexus Hybrid Drive System switches automatically to electric, or a combination of the two power sources, dependent on load requirements. The Power Control Unit switches on the Petrol Engine when it is required and allocates power to it according to its needs. When increased acceleration is required, both the petrol engine and electric motor are used.

Is the acceleration of a Lexus Hybrid responsive or sluggish?
The two motors work together to give you optimum speed and power. The electric motor provides most of its torque at low speeds while the petrol engine offers all the power at medium and higher speeds.

How long will Lexus make Hybrids?
Lexus will continue to invest in hybrid technology, as it offers the greatest vehicle advancement in terms of performance and economy. Once our customers experience the power, fuel economy, reduced emissions, versatility, convenience and the luxury of a hybrid, there will be no turning back.

Where are Hybrid vehicles built?
All Lexus Hybrid Vehicles are built in Japan.

How long does the hybrid battery last/stay charged?
The hybrid battery has a warranty of 4 years/100 000km; whichever one comes first. Usually the battery will last longer than the length of the warranty.

Do you have to charge or plug in a Lexus Hybrid?
No, you don’t. The Lexus Hybrid Drive technology automatically recharges its battery. It does this by using regenerative braking and by running the engine to generate electricity.

How fuel efficient are Lexus Hybrid vehicles?
Estimated fuel consumption of the RX450h is 6.3/100km and the GS450h is capable of delivering 7.91/100km.

What are the characteristics of a Hybrid all-wheel drive vehicle?
In the RX 450h, power at the front axle is supplied by the Hybrid system, and power to the rear axle is generated by a separate 50kW electric motor.

What are the characteristics of a Hybrid engine?
A Hybrid engine runs on two different sources of power; an electric motor and a petrol engine. The electric motor helps to conserve energy, while the petrol engine provides the power that the vehicle requires.

Is the Lexus Hybrid better than its competitors?
Based on recent announcements, we can safely say that the Lexus Hybrid is the most powerful hybrid available, and the first with a luxury SUV. Another point to remember is that the Lexus Hybrid Drive system allows electric-only operation under low-speed and stop-and-go conditions for maximum efficiency.

What are the additional hybrid functions?
With a Split Parallel/Series 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.

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 split parallel/series hybrid system, and power to the rear axle is generated by a separate 50 kW electric motor.