Electric vehicles harness new technology to reduce emissions while eliminating the need for stops at the fuel station. While they drive very similarly to a car with an internal combustion engine, EVs operate a little differently. One of the things new EV drivers ask us the most about is regenerative braking. What is regenerative braking and how does it work? Use our handy guide to learn more!
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Regenerative Braking Explained
There are two main regenerative braking methods used by hybrid or electric cars:
- In some vehicles like the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid, there is a paddle by the steering wheel that allows the driver to customize the braking system with different levels of braking. Sometimes called one-pedal driving, this setup allows the driver to accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator. Press the pedal with your foot to go faster, or let up and allow the regenerative and friction brakes do the work. Simply taking your foot off the pedal sends extra energy generated by the brakes back to the battery or straight to the electric motor.
- Along with a paddle, most hybrid and electric vehicles have regenerative braking built in. As you press the brake pedal, the regenerative and friction brakes go to work. In a traditional gas-powered vehicle, the kinetic energy generated from braking goes to waste. Instead of wasting that energy, electric vehicles put that energy to use to increase the driving range. Those small bits of stored energy can add up quickly, allowing you to drive longer on a single charge.
Making use of regenerative braking can take some getting used to for those newer to electrified vehicles. But once you get the hang of it, harnessing the power of regenerative brakes becomes second nature. There are other benefits of the regenerative braking system, too. Using friction brakes alone puts a lot of wear and tear on your braking system, so regenerative braking may reduce the frequency of service your brakes will need.
Test Drive a Vehicle with Regenerative Braking at Carnamic
Are you interested in testing out a vehicle with regenerative braking? The EV experts at Carnamic are here to help! We can set you up with a test drive in a hybrid or electric vehicle that suits all your needs. Contact us today to learn more!
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