Hi, I am thinking of buying a p400e. Not so bothered about the hybrid part, but it seems early 400e prices are quite reasonable and I like the 2.0 Petrol eng. Not so keen now on oil burners. the none hybrid 2.0l seem non existent.

is there a way to check the health of the hybrid battery (not via dealer)

if the battery gets to a point i.e no longer charges is the car still drivable?
seems theres a market for recon battery's.

Thanks in advance -

Simon

With regards to the battery failing, will the car still run - yes; but not for long as the HV battery charges the 12v battery as there is no alternator. L405 SV Autobiography LWB SDV8, finished in Aston Martin China Grey by ETO division.

Actually there is a great big alternator that doubles as a motor for stop/starting and giving a small amount of extra oomph when accelerating from idle speed. How else would any battery be charged if not for the alternator?

As far as I am aware (and stand to be corrected), it's not a normal alternator but a generator coupled to a DC-DC convertor to charge the HV battery and if the HV battery fails then the 12v battery will discharge and you'll be stranded. L405 SV Autobiography LWB SDV8, finished in Aston Martin China Grey by ETO division.

Its an alternator but not as you know it captain. All alternators rectify to charge DC batteries. The difference with these is that they are also motors and do charge at 48V

so fundamentally if the hybrid battery fails, then the car wont start (unless you jump it) The LR warranty seems to be only 6 years for hybrid battery. which is probably why these are dropping in price.

maybe the 5.0 V8 SC is a better bet (always liked the jag engine)