What kind of battery does a Lexus have?
Lexus vehicles use two main battery types: a standard 12‑volt starter battery and a high‑voltage traction battery used by hybrids and electrified models. The exact chemistry and configuration vary by model and generation.
Two battery systems power Lexus vehicles
All Lexus cars rely on a 12‑volt system to start the engine and run accessories, while hybrids and electric models rely on a separate high‑voltage pack to power electric motors and propulsion.
12-volt starter battery
The 12‑volt battery is the conventional battery found in virtually every car. In Lexus models, it is typically a lead‑acid type, with many newer vehicles using an absorbed glass mat (AGM) variant to better handle electrical loads and cycling. This battery powers starting, lighting, and electronic systems when the engine isn’t running.
High-voltage traction battery
In hybrids, plug‑in hybrids, and fully electric Lexus models, a high‑voltage battery provides power to the electric motor(s). The chemistry of this pack varies by model and generation.
The following patterns are common across many Lexus models, though exact specs vary by year and trim:
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) high‑voltage batteries are common in many traditional/Lexus hybrid systems.
- Lithium‑ion (Li‑ion) high‑voltage batteries appear in plug‑in hybrids (PHEVs) and fully electric models, offering higher energy density and EV‑only range.
- Fully electric models (such as Lexus’ electric offerings) use Li‑ion high‑voltage packs with larger capacities to enable longer electric driving ranges.
These general patterns help explain how Lexus hybrids and electrified vehicles operate, but exact battery chemistry and capacity depend on the specific model and model year. Always consult the owner’s manual or official Lexus specifications for the precise battery type in your car.
Model-specific notes
To determine the exact battery type for a particular Lexus model and year, check the vehicle’s spec sheet or contact Lexus support. Battery choices have evolved over time, with NiMH remaining common for many non‑plug‑in hybrids and Li‑ion becoming standard in newer plug‑ins and EVs.
- Non-plug-in hybrids typically use NiMH high‑voltage packs, paired with a smaller overall capacity than their plug‑in counterparts.
- Plug‑in hybrids use larger Li‑ion high‑voltage packs to enable EV driving and higher combined ranges.
- Fully electric Lexus models use Li‑ion high‑voltage packs designed for extended electric range and performance.
For precise information about your vehicle, refer to the official specifications for your exact model and year.
Summary
Lexus cars have a dual-battery setup: a standard 12‑volt starter battery and a high‑voltage traction battery for hybrids, plug‑ins, and EVs. The high‑voltage pack can be NiMH or Li‑ion depending on the model and generation, with Li‑ion becoming more common in newer plug‑in and electric models. Always verify your specific model’s battery type in the owner’s manual or official specifications.
