2009 Lexus LS 600h Owners Manual - Page 30

1-1. Hybrid system n During normal driving The gasoline engine is predominantly used. The electric motor (traction motor) charges the hybrid battery as necessary. n When accelerating sharply The power of the hybrid battery (traction battery) is added via electric motor (traction motor) to that of the gasoline engine. n When braking (Regenerative braking) The electric motor (traction motor) charges the hybrid battery (traction battery). 1 Before driving n Regenerative braking The motor generator converts kinetic energy to electric energy when: l The accelerator pedal is released. l The brake pedal is depressed with the shift lever in "D", "S" or "R". n Conditions in which the gasoline engine may not stop The gasoline engine starts and stops automatically. However, it may not stop automatically in the following conditions: l The gasoline engine is warming up. l The hybrid battery (traction battery) is being charged. l The hybrid battery (traction battery) temperature is low or high. n Charging the battery l As the gasoline engine charges the hybrid battery (traction battery), the battery does not need to be charged from an outside source. However, if the vehicle is left parked for a long time the hybrid battery will slowly discharge. For this reason, be sure to drive the vehicle at least once every few months for at least 30 minutes or 10 miles (16 km). If the hybrid battery becomes fully discharged and you are unable to jump-start the vehicle with the 12-volt battery, contact your Lexus dealer. l If the shift lever is in "N", the hybrid battery (traction battery) will not be charged. When driving in heavy traffic, operate the vehicle with the shift lever in "D" or "S" to avoid discharging the battery. 31