Summary
- EVs have the advantage of regenerative braking to recover energy while slowing down
- Coasting can also conserve energy but its effectiveness depends on various factors
- The Volkswagen ID. Buzz has a regen braking mode for efficiency
- Regen was more effective overall, but coasting was better for open roads
- Using both regenerative braking and coasting can maximize range for EVs
Article
Electric vehicles have the advantage of recovering energy while slowing down, converting kinetic energy to electricity and feeding it back into the battery. This is a feature that internal combustion vehicles lack, making EVs more efficient in terms of energy conservation. However, another way to conserve energy is through coasting, which involves letting the vehicle glide freely with minimal power inputs. The question arises: which technique is better for maximizing range in an EV, regenerative braking or coasting?
The author conducted a comparison test using the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, focusing on efficiency in different driving conditions. The ID. Buzz offers regenerative braking with two modes, a default “D” mode for light coasting and a “B” mode for more aggressive braking. Despite regenerative braking being more effective overall, it may not always be the best way to maximize range as the impact of coasting on efficiency varies based on factors such as topography, aerodynamics, vehicle weight, driving style, and weather. The ID. Buzz, with its tall, boxy design and heavy weight, may not be the most aerodynamic vehicle, affecting its efficiency.
Regenerative braking in the ID. Buzz is activated by twisting the gear selector to the “B” mode, although it is not as aggressive as in some EVs that offer one-pedal driving. The author observed varying levels of efficiency while driving in different conditions, with regen being more efficient in stop-and-go traffic while coasting was better on open roads. Anticipation and defensive driving can also contribute to efficiency by avoiding unnecessary acceleration and braking. While regen is better for around-town efficiency, coasting may be preferable on the highway.
The author tested the efficiency of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz in different driving scenarios, observing significantly improved efficiency when using regenerative braking compared to coasting. A combination of both techniques, depending on the driving conditions, may be the best way to maximize range in an EV. Despite the benefits of regenerative braking, it may not be practical to switch between coasting and regen constantly. Leaving regen activated should be sufficient for the majority of drivers, except for those who are focused on squeezing out every last mile of range from the battery.
In conclusion, finding the optimal balance between regenerative braking and coasting can help maximize the range of an electric vehicle. While regenerative braking is more effective in stop-and-go traffic, coasting may be preferable on open roads. Smart driving habits, such as anticipation and defensive driving, can further improve efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between regen and coasting depends on the driving conditions and individual preferences, with a combination of both techniques likely to yield the best results in terms of range maximization in an EV.
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