For a maximum range, efficient driving and an intelligent energy recovery concept are important factors. In the GTX models from Volkswagen, the driver uses the gear selector to decide whether the vehicle should coast freely or recover energy as soon as the foot is lifted from the accelerator pedal.
In driving mode D, which is automatically activated when starting the electric vehicle, sailing has priority. When the foot is lifted from the accelerator pedal, the vehicle rolls without pushing – i.e. without a braking effect from the electric motor – and without accelerating. This saves energy.
When the vehicle's brake pedal is pressed, the energy recovery starts. Then, the electric motor works as a generator.
The deceleration caused by the energy recovery is sufficient in most everyday situations. This provides new energy for the battery and protects the vehicle's hydraulic brakes.
When braking is more intense, the electric brake servo activates the hydraulic brakes automatically and almost imperceptibly.
If the energy recovery should take precedence over sailing, the drive mode rocker switch can be used to switch from D mode (like “Drive”) to B mode (like “Brake”) at any time. In this mode, the drive recovers energy almost all the time, but not until the vehicle comes to a standstill.
