The CHARGE/ASSIST gage displays the charge into and out of the hybrid battery.

When the gage indicates ASSIST, the electric motor is performing an automatic restart of the engine, or the electric motor is assisting for maximum acceleration.

When the gage indicates CHARGE, the electric motor operates as a generator to perform regenerative braking, while decelerating. See Regenerative Braking for more information.

The gage also indicates CHARGE when the system is recharging the hybrid battery.

If the hybrid battery or other hybrid components are very hot or cold, the CHARGE and ASSIST functions can be suspended until the component temperatures are normal.