Filter
Top Products
1
Driving the RX 400h
On the whole, driving the RX400h is not very much different from driving a
conventional vehicle. However, there are some subtle differences you will notice.
•
•
•
•
•
Turning the ignition key "starts" the vehicle, but may not start the engine.
Like starting a regular vehicle, turn the ignition key to the "START" position and
release to start the vehicle. After a few seconds, the "READY" light in the Power
Gauge will come on. Once the "READY" light comes on, place the transmission
gear lever into the desired gear and start driving. When accelerating slowly, the
RX 400h can drive at low speeds on electric power alone, so the gasoline engine
may not start for awhile dependng upon the need.
The transmission will feel different.
The RX400h uses an Electronically-controlled Continuously Variable
Transmission (ECVT). The transmission does not shift with fixed gear ratios like a
conventional transmission, so it delivers power efficiently and smoothly.
The “B” gear position is for engine braking.
The brakes may feel different.
The RX 400h has a regenerative braking system which works in conjunction
with its conventional hydraulic braking system. As a result, the brakes may feel
different from a conventional vehicle.
The engine will turn off and on while you drive.
The engine will automatically turn on and off as needed. At medium or high speeds,
it is normal for the engine to be on most of the time. At low speeds or when
stopped, the engine may or may not be on, depending on the need.
You will notice different sounds while driving.
The engine sound will be more steady than a conventional vehicle when accele-
rating due to the smooth operation of the ECVT. It is also normal for the new tech-
nology of the Lexus Hybrid Drivesystem to make a "whirring" sound while driving.
(continued next page)
HYBRID OVERVIEW
RX 400h
CAUTION: While drivinga hybridvehicle,pay specialattention tothe areaaround
the vehicle.Because thereis littlevehiclenoise inelectric-only mode,pedestrians, people
riding bicycles orother peopleand vehicles inthe areamay not beaware ofthe vehicle
starting offor approachingthem, sotakeextracarewhile driving.