The Modern Marvel of Regenerative Braking Systems
In the long history of automotive engineering, stepping on a vehicle’s brakes has always meant losing energy. Today, technological advancements have led to regenerative braking, which can capture that previously lost energy and put it to work propelling the vehicle. This new technology is part of the reason hybrid and all-electric vehicles are so efficient.
Traditional Brakes
A traditional braking system uses a brake pad (red item in the picture below) and a brake rotor to stop a turning wheel. The rotor is attached to the wheel, and when the brakes are applied, the pad squeezes against the rotor creating friction. That friction creates resistance to slow and stop the spinning wheel, thus slowing or stopping the moving vehicle. That friction also creates energy in the form of heat. In this traditional braking system, not only is that energy lost, it also wears down the material of the brake pads, which means that’s another part that needs to be replaced periodically, just like the engine oil, tires, or windshield wiper blades. And of course, that costs the driver more money.
Regenerative Brakes
A regenerative braking system adds a generator to the equation. The generator uses that same friction to recharge the vehicle’s batteries. As a vehicle is moving, it has kinetic energy of its own, which is why force is required to stop it. The regenerative braking system converts that kinetic energy to mechanical energy, which is then stored in the vehicle’s batteries. Not only does this result in a recharge for the battery, it also aids in in slowing the vehicle. Regenerative brakes don’t have the ability to completely stop a vehicle, so they must be paired with a traditional braking system. However, because the regenerative braking process absorbs so much of the energy created when slowing the vehicle, the brake pads wear less and last longer, saving you money as well as energy.
If you're interested in learning more about how going electric can save you money at the pump and still offer the same reliable and convenient ride you've come to expect, reach out to us or visit us in person at Hall Mazda Virginia Beach.