2010 Lexus GS 450h Owners Manual - Page 142

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2-1. Driving procedures

GS_HV_U (OM30C81U)

June 30, 2011 9:20 am

CAUTION

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Moving the shift lever to "N" while the vehicle is moving will disengage the hybrid

system. Engine braking is not available with the hybrid system disengaged.

●

During normal driving, do not turn off the hybrid system. Turning the hybrid sys-

tem off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the

power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer

and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do

so.

However, in the event of an emergency, such as if it becomes impossible to stop

the vehicle in the normal way:

→

P. 534

●

Use engine braking (downshift) to maintain a safe speed when driving down a

steep hill.

Using the brakes continuously may cause the brakes to overheat and lose effec-

tiveness. (

→

P. 156)

●

When stopped on an inclined surface, use the brake pedal and parking brake to

prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or forward and causing an accident.

●

Be careful when driving on slippery surfaces, as the vehicle may spin or skid when

downshifting, rapidly accelerating, braking or turning.

●

Do not adjust the position of the steering wheel, the seat, or the inside or outside

rear view mirrors while driving.

Doing so may result in a loss of vehicle control that can cause accidents that may

result in death or serious injury.

●

Always check that all passengers’ arms, heads or other parts of their bodies are

not outside the vehicle, as this may result in death or serious injury.

●

Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do

not drive over 85 mph (140 km/h) unless your vehicle has high-speed capability

tires. Driving over 85 mph (140 km/h) may result in tire failure, loss of control and

possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine whether the tires on

your vehicle are high-speed capability tires or not before driving at such speeds.

●

The driver should pay attention to pedestrians when the vehicle is powered only

by the electric motor (traction motor). Because there is no engine sounds, the

pedestrians may misjudge the vehicle’s movement.