Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking slows an electric vehicle by operating its traction motor as a generator and converting part of the vehicle's kinetic energy into electrical energy for the battery.
How it works
Regeneration can be requested when the driver lifts the accelerator, presses the brake pedal, or when an assistance system manages speed. Many EVs blend regenerative and friction braking so the requested deceleration remains predictable while recovering energy where possible.
Energy recovery is never complete. Conversion losses remain, and regenerative power can be restricted by battery state of charge, temperature, traction, motor speed, component limits, or stability control. Friction brakes are still required for strong stops, low-speed holding, emergencies, and conditions where regeneration is unavailable.
The setting shown to the driver does not always equal the total regeneration capability; brake-pedal blending can recover energy even in a low lift-off mode. See Regenerative Braking for control strategies, limits, one-pedal operation, and brake maintenance.