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How many kWh battery is in the Lexus RX 450h?

The Lexus RX 450h uses a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack with a capacity of about 1.3 kWh.


As a detail, the RX 450h, launched in 2009, sits in a family of Toyota-Lexus hybrids that typically rely on compact NiMH packs around 288 volts. Exact published kWh figures aren’t always provided by Lexus, but industry sources generally place the RX 450h’s capacity near 1.0–1.3 kWh depending on year and market. It’s important to note that the plug-in variant, the RX 450h+, uses a much larger battery (around 18 kWh) and is a different configuration intended for longer electric-only driving.


Battery basics for the RX 450h


Before listing the core specifications, here are the key facts commonly cited about the RX 450h battery:



  • Chemistry: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)

  • Nominal voltage: Approximately 288 volts

  • Energy capacity: Roughly 1.3 kWh (typical range cited around 1.0–1.3 kWh by year/market)

  • Role: Powers the electric motor to assist the gasoline engine and stores regenerative energy


These fundamentals summarize what powers the hybrid system in the standard RX 450h.


Variants and related models


Before this list, note the distinction between the standard RX 450h and its plug-in counterpart:



  • RX 450h+ (plug-in hybrid): Uses a substantially larger battery, typically around 18 kWh, enabling longer electric-only driving ranges

  • RX 450h (non-plug-in): NiMH battery with about 1.3 kWh capacity, not designed for prolonged electric-only driving

  • Market/year differences: Official Lexus spec sheets rarely publish exact kWh numbers for the non-plug-in variant, leading to commonly cited ranges around 1.0–1.3 kWh


In short, the standard RX 450h carries a modest NiMH pack around 1.3 kWh, while the plug-in RX 450h+ increases capacity dramatically for extended EV use.


Summary


Bottom line: the Lexus RX 450h’s battery is a NiMH pack of roughly 1.3 kilowatt-hours. If you’re looking at the plug-in version (RX 450h+), expect a much larger battery near 18 kWh. Always check the specific model year and market for the most precise figures, as official documentation varies.

How many kWh is a Lexus RX 450h hybrid battery?


18 kWh
Estimate based on 18 kWh battery charging from 10% to 90% capacity.



What is the battery range of the Lexus rx450h+?


An 18.1-kWh battery pack, same as in the NX, feeds those e-motors, and the EPA estimates EV range at 37 miles, same as the NX but less than the RAV4's 42.



How many kW is the RX 450h?


The RX 450h features an upgraded 3.5 L 2GR-FXE V6 engine (shared with the RX 350) which produces 245 hp (183 kW) at 6000 rpm, along with a new inverter which boosts total horsepower to 297 hp (221 kW) (with the electric motors providing an added 22 hp (16 kW)).



How much does it cost to replace a Lexus RX 450h hybrid battery?


Labor costs are estimated between $516 and $758 while parts are typically priced around $6,349. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed. For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.