Does Lexus have a special battery?
Yes. Lexus uses specialized battery technology across its lineup, featuring nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) packs in most hybrids, lithium-ion packs in newer hybrids and plug-in variants, and lithium-ion packs in its first mass-market electric SUV, the RZ 450e. The automaker—and its parent company Toyota—also is pursuing solid-state battery technology for future vehicles.
How Lexus batteries are used today
Below is a snapshot of the battery chemistries powering Lexus hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, showing how the company tailors energy storage to each model's needs.
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries power most traditional Lexus hybrids, valued for durability and long life.
- Lithium-ion batteries are used in newer hybrids and plug-in hybrids to deliver higher electric-only range and reduce weight compared with NiMH.
- Lithium-ion packs power Lexus BEVs such as the RZ 450e, designed for longer range and faster charging.
In short, Lexus relies on a mix of battery chemistries rather than a single, one-size-fits-all solution. The choice depends on target performance, cost, packaging and regional requirements for each model.
Future tech: solid-state batteries
Lexus and Toyota have long signaled intent to adopt solid-state battery technology, which could offer higher energy density, faster charging and improved safety. As of 2025, no Lexus model uses a solid-state battery in production, but development continues with partnerships and pilot programs aimed at bringing the technology to market in the coming years.
What solid-state batteries promise
Solid-state cells replace the liquid electrolyte with solid materials, enabling higher energy per kilogram and potentially safer operation. For Lexus, that could translate into longer-range BEVs, lighter packs and quicker charging in future models.
Challenges remain, including manufacturing scale, cost and long-term reliability. If development stays on track, Lexus intends to introduce solid-state chemistry in future vehicles, but timing remains uncertain.
Summary
Across its lineup, Lexus uses a variety of battery chemistries tailored to each vehicle type. NiMH remains common in traditional hybrids, lithium-ion packs power newer hybrids and plug-ins, and BEVs like the RZ 450e rely on lithium-ion cells. The brand is actively researching solid-state batteries for the next generation, but a production-ready solution is not yet available. Expect updates as technology evolves.
