What kind of battery is in the NX350h?
The NX350h uses a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack as part of its self-charging hybrid system. It is not a plug-in battery.
In this report, we examine the battery powering Lexus’s NX350h, how it integrates with the hybrid drivetrain, where it is located, and what that means for maintenance and ownership. The NX350h is Lexus’s hybrid version of the compact SUV lineup, pairing a gasoline engine with electric motors to boost efficiency without requiring external charging.
Battery type and how it powers the NX350h
The NX350h relies on Toyota/Lexus Hybrid System II (THS II) and a compact nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. This battery stores electrical energy used by the electric motors to assist propulsion and to recover energy during braking. It is charged by the gasoline engine and the vehicle’s regenerative braking system; there is no external charging port for plug-in charging.
- Battery type: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack
- Hybrid system: Toyota/Lexus Hybrid System II (THS II)
- Charging method: Recharges through engine operation and regenerative braking
- Plug-in capability: None (not designed for external charging)
In short, the NX350h's energy storage is NiMH and recharged on the move rather than via plug-in charging.
Placement and maintenance considerations
Where the battery sits and how it is serviced are important details for owners of a self-charging hybrid.
- Location: The NiMH pack is integrated within the vehicle’s underfloor/rear-area architecture and is sealed; access is typically via authorized service channels
- Maintenance: Regular dealer service; NiMH packs in Lexus hybrids are designed for long life with proper cooling and maintenance
- Replacement: Handled by authorized technicians using OEM parts if needed
- Warranty considerations: Hybrid battery warranties vary by model year and market
Because the battery is sealed and integral to the hybrid system, routine checks are handled during standard service intervals.
Plug-in vs non-plug-in distinction
The NX350h is a non-plug-in hybrid. There is no charging plug, and the system prioritizes on-board energy recapture and engine-assisted propulsion rather than external charging. A plug-in version in the NX family is the NX 450h+ (also known as NX 450h in some markets) which can be charged from an external source and may offer more all-electric operation.
Additional details
The NX350h shares its hybrid core with other Lexus/Toyota models that use the THS II platform. The NiMH battery has a proven track record for durability in varied climates, with replacement commonly performed during specialized service rather than routine maintenance.
Summary
The battery in the NX350h is a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) pack used by Lexus' self-charging hybrid system. It powers the electric motor while charging through the engine and regenerative braking, and it is not designed for plug-in charging. This arrangement helps deliver improved fuel economy without requiring external charging infrastructure. For specifics on capacity, location, and warranties, consult the vehicle's owner manual or a Lexus dealer, as configurations can vary by market and model year.
