hybrid_philosophy
At the core of all Lexus Hybrids is the advanced Lexus hybrid system, which combines a gasoline engine and a high-output electric motor. They work together to produce seamless power while reducing harmful emissions. Four luxury hybrids. One groundbreaking technology.
Dual Power Sources
During fast acceleration, and when maximum power is required, Lexus hybrid system 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 the life of the vehicle.
It stores all the electricity generated by the Lexus hybrid system, helping to ensure the vehicle has all 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.
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 creates a balance between 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.
ECVT
Lexus' Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) allows both the gasoline engine and electric motors to power the vehicle, while also allowing regenerative braking.
An innovative single planetary gearset provides a nearly limitless combination of gear ratios, without the mechanical complexity or limitations of a traditional automatic transmission's fixed gear ratios. The result is virtually seamless acceleration.
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 and HS Hybrids also feature an EV mode [2], which,
under certain conditions, enables you to drive the vehicle for short distances and at low vehicle speeds 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.
[3] These vehicles produce about 70% fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.
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