How Does Regenerative Braking Work?

In the past, car brakes were merely just brakes. Drivers pressed on the brake pedal, and the car slowed down. However, as technology has improved over the years, a new type of brake technology is becoming quite popular. In this article, we will dissect everything there is to know about regenerative braking and what it means for brake repair if your vehicle has it.

Whether your car, truck, or SUV is outfitted with regenerative braking or a standard braking system, Total Performance Inc. has you covered. Come see us in Tacoma, Washington, today for all of your brake repair and auto maintenance needs.

What is Regenerative Braking and How Does it Work?

In a conventional hydraulic braking system, the friction that is generated between the brake pad and the brake system is used to convert the vehicle’s kinetic energy into friction, allowing the car to slow down. With regenerative braking systems, however, instead of merely releasing the energy into the atmosphere, the vehicle transforms the energy into electrical energy that is then stored in the vehicle’s battery. In addition to helping to stop the car, the energy that is stored also provides additional power to the engine for future driving, thus improving the vehicle’s efficiency.

When driving a vehicle with a regenerative braking system, the electric motor draws power from the battery to rotate the wheels, thus generating the kinetic energy it requires to drive. However, when the brakes are applied, the kinetic energy that was initially used to drive the vehicle acts as a form of a generator. Instead of using electricity, the engine begins generating power using the vehicle’s kinetic energy. Since hydraulic brakes are basically a backup system to regenerative brakes, they are used less, allowing them to last longer.

However, this doesn’t mean that brake repair isn’t still required for this type of braking system.

Rust and pollutants can quickly build up just as easily as standard braking systems, thus affecting both the disk friction surface, brake pad, and calipers. Driving conditions and environmental factors can also cause system components to wear down over time. As such, brake repair is still necessary, despite braking components wearing differently.

Certified Brake Repair in Tacoma, Washington

Your vehicle’s brakes are vital to not only your safety but also to the safety of your passengers. If it’s been a while since your brakes were last inspected or serviced, give us a call or come see us at Total Performance Inc. in Tacoma, Washington, today to schedule a professional brake repair service appointment.