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ES300h_QG_OM33B89U_(U)
■Charging the hybrid ba ttery (traction battery)
As the gasoline engine charges the hybrid batt ery (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 (traction 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 (traction battery) becomes fully discharged and you are unable to start
the hybrid system, contact your Lexus dealer.
■ Regenerative braking
In the following situations, kinetic energy is converted to electric energy and deceleration
force can be obtained in conjunction with the recharging of the hybrid battery (traction bat-
tery).
● The accelerator pedal is released while driving with the shift lever in D or S.
● The brake pedal is depressed while driving with the shift lever in D or S.
■Sounds and vibrations specific to a hybrid vehicle
There may be no engine sound or vibration even though the vehicle is able to move with the
“READY” indicator is illuminated. For safety, ap ply the parking brake and make sure to shift
the shift lever to P when parked.
The following sounds or vibrations may occur when the hybrid system is operating and are
not a malfunction:
● Motor sounds may be heard from the engine compartment.
● Sounds may be heard from the hybrid battery (traction battery) behind the rear seats
when the hybrid system starts or stops.
● Relay operating sounds such as a snap or so ft clank will be emitted from the hybrid bat-
tery (traction battery), behind the rear seats, when the hybrid system is started or
stopped.
● Sounds from the hybrid system may be heard when the trunk lid is open.
● Sounds may be heard from the transmission when the gasoline engine starts or stops,
when driving at low speeds, or during idling.
● Engine sounds may be heard when accelerating sharply.
● Sounds may be heard due to regenerative br aking when the brake pedal is depressed or
as the accelerator pedal is released.
● Vibration may be felt when the ga soline engine starts or stops.
● Cooling fan sounds may be heard from th e air intake vent on rear left seat.
■Running out of fuel
When the vehicle has run out of fuel and the hybrid system cannot be started, refuel the
vehicle with at least enough gasoline to make the low fuel level warning light go off. If there is
only a small amount of fuel, the hybrid system may not be able to start. (The standard amount
of fuel is about 3.0 gal. [11.3 L, 2.5 Imp.gal.], when the vehicle is on a level surface. This value
may vary when the vehicle is on a slope. Add extra fuel when the vehicle is inclined.)
