Sustainably efficient: brake energy recuperation in the ID.3

It is said that those who brake, lose. The ID.3 puts an end to this notion. It features sophisticated technology that recovers energy when braking – known as recuperation. And, as is often the case in life, not every innovative technology is easy to notice at first glance. Such is the case with an intelligent braking system.

Illustration:Some technical components of the VW ID.3

Those who brake, win.

When you press the brake pedal of your ID.3, the electric motor acts like an alternator. Full recuperation performance transforms some of the kinetic energy into electric energy – which is fed directly back to the high-voltage battery. For this to happen, a shift between the electric (via the alternator) and hydraulic (via the wheel brake) deceleration ratio is needed during braking. This transfer between the two brake systems is called “brake blending” and makes higher energy efficiency possible. The power and control electronics for the electric drive supplies the recuperated energy directly to the high-voltage battery. In short: the brake system uses the deceleration energy to increase the range of your ID.3.

Illustration: Brake energy recuperation in the ID.3

Speed reduces, comfort increases.

The ID.3’s deceleration isn’t the only thing that’s efficient and smart – driving also becomes significantly more comfortable on the whole. Especially pleasant for the driver is taking their foot off the “gas” – the car rolls along gently in cruise mode, which also saves energy when driving using an anticipatory driving style. In the event of braking, the system first recuperates. Every braking action in your ID.3 becomes a win-win – for both range and comfort.