What is Regenerative Braking and How Does it Work?

I've heard that the BMW i3 uses regenerative braking. What exactly is this feature and how does it work?

Regenerative braking is a technology that allows the i3 to recapture energy that would normally be lost during braking. This energy is then stored in the battery for later use, reducing the need for frequent charging.

When you apply the brakes in the i3, the electric motor switches into generator mode, capturing kinetic energy and converting it into electrical energy. This energy can then be used to power the vehicle's electric motor.

Regenerative braking is not only efficient, but also helps to improve the i3's range. By using regenerative braking, you can get more out of a single charge and therefore, reduce your overall carbon footprint. It's a win-win!