Regenerative braking on electric vehicles: working principles and benefits of application

Abstract

The application of electric vehicles leads to a change in the principle of operation and functioning of some systems in the vehicle, which also lead to a change in the concept of the vehicle itself. One of those systems that has a new concept, which differs from vehicles powered by IC engines, is the braking system. The previous function of the braking system was to stop the vehicle, i.e. to reduce the speed of the vehicle in a safe way. In the case of electric vehicles, the friction brakes were retained, with the addition of a regenerative braking system that has the role of replenishing the vehicle's batteries. The regenerative braking system has the role of converting the vehicle's kinetic energy into electrical energy that recharges the batteries. This system is already used today on full electric and hybrid vehicles, i.e. on vehicles powered by an electric motor. The benefits of regenerative braking are reflected on the fact that the vehicle batteries are recharged during braking, vehicle maintenance costs are reduced, the service life of discs and drum brakes on the vehicle is extended, brake non-exhaust emission is reduced, and heat energy emission is reduced, too.