2009 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 61

1 -1 . H ybrid syst e m H ybrid syst e m Your vehicle is a hybrid vehicle. It has characteristics different from conventional vehicles. Be sure you are closely familiar with the characteristics of your vehicle, and operate with care. The hybrid system combines a gasoline engine and an electric motor (traction motor) according to driving conditions, improving fuel efficiency and reducing exhaust emissions. Gasoline engine Front electric motor (traction motor) Rear electric motor (traction motor) n When stopped/during take-off The gasoline engine stops when the vehicle is stopped. During take-off, the electric motor (traction motor) drives the vehicle. At slow speeds or when traveling down a gentle slope, the engine is stopped and the motor is used. 30