new 2006 rx400h model

I would guess it's because this hybrid uses electrical power first, then the gas engine kics in when needed. So you always start off with electric. It's an electric car with a gas engine. It's the reverse of some other hybrids that start with gas and use electrical power as a suppliment. At least that's what I think, though I could be confused.

I hope you enjoy your car as much as my husband enjoys his. We get about 24 mpg, with mostly city driving - not bad for an SUV.

How can you tell that it hasn't?

Hybrid cars usually have battery problems

Well... You will probably never see it hit a hundred because you are always going back and fourth from battery power alone to electric motors to a combination of gass and electric.

When you start you RX400h and you are at a stand still you are operating on the battery alone... When you are driving slower speeds you are run on your electic motors, but the electric motors are powered by the hybrid battery. And when you are drving hiring speeds you are running gas engine and electic motors.

As you may alreday know your hybrid battery is charge when you are coasting, braking, and sometimes the gasaline engine will come on to charge it if necessary.

There is no need to worry as this will not affect the performance of your vehicle or limit the distance that your vehicle drives in electric mode.

If you have further questions... call the Lexus Customer Satisfaction Line at 1.800.25. Lexus