Arguably one of the best features of an electric vehicle (EV) is one-pedal driving in which the car slows down without the need to physically apply pressure to the brake pedal. This is possible thanks to the regenerative braking system in EVs, which uses the electric motor as a generator and converts kinetic energy from the vehicle’s forward motion into electricity.
While this provides a better driving experience for many, it is not the most efficient way to slow down an EV, according to Porsche engineers. Instead the German automaker decided to go with a driving feature from internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, coasting, which it says is “more natural.”
According to Martin Reichenecker, Senior Manager Chassis Testing at Porsche Engineering, coasting is also more efficient and the recuperation of energy only happens when the brake pedal is used.
In a recent article in the Porsche Engineering Magazine Reichenecker explained, “this is a more efficient way of driving, because it keeps the kinetic energy in the vehicle.” This compares to one-pedal driving which recuperates first, and only then converts the recovered energy back into propulsion, resulting in “twice the losses.” (via GreenCarReports)
Porsche also says it expects the brake pads in the Taycan and their future EVs to outlast their usable life, and that they will be replaced because of their age and not due to wear. But that lack of use can also cause issues in which the brake discs accumulate dirt and grime, but Porsche has come up with a feature to keep them clean.
“The vehicle brakes at regular intervals using the hydraulic system only, and without the electric motors, to remove dirt from the discs,” Porsche explains.
Despite this, the Taycan still uses its electric motors to slow down 90% of the time. The only time the hydraulic brakes are needed is when the car is travelling below 5km/h, a speed at which the electric motors do not generate enough power to slow down the car.
Have you driven a Taycan and a Tesla? Do you prefer Tesla’s one-pedal driving, or Porsche’s braking methods? Let us know in the comments below.
