e-Four drive on a Toyota or Lexus hybrid — how the rear axle works

In Toyota and Lexus hybrids with e-Four the rear axle has its own electric motor. There is no propshaft from the front. The rear joins in when pulling away, on a slippery surface and under harder acceleration, not for the whole trip.

What not to expect

• This is not an off-roader with permanent drive and a low range
• On dry asphalt the rear often rests — that is how it should be
• After a rear inverter fault the car keeps front drive and lights a warning

Service

Noise or no pull from the rear is checked on the rear motor, wiring and cooling, not by “adding a diff lock”. When towing an AWD version every wheel must be off the ground — that is covered in the text about the flatbed.

Summary

Regular diagnostics and careful use keep a hybrid free of surprises. If you have questions after reading — see our hybrid service or contact us.