Cadillac ELR Paddle Shifters Deliver Regen on Demand
The range extended Cadillac ELR makes use of paddle shifters like many other vehicles, but rather than controlling gear shifts, the ELR’s paddles are all about power regeneration on demand.
Feeling like a downshift when the paddle is pulled, the range-extended electric ELR uses its momentum to charge its battery pack, while providing back pressure to the driver, until the paddle is released. Thanks to its electric power, the ELR has 295 lb-ft of torque instantly available, and all electric drive range of about 35 miles.
SEE ALSO: C adillac ELR at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show
“Regen on Demand enables ELR drivers to actively re-capture energy when slowing down, such as when approaching slower traffic or setting up for a tight turn,” said Chris Thomason, ELR chief engineer. “This allows the driver to take more active role in the electric vehicle driving experience.”
Due to hit the market in early 2014, the ELR puts a priority on sport-inspired driving and luxury compared to its mechanical twin the Chevy Volt, and offers an extra 58 hp and 22 lb-ft of torque over the Chevy.
GALLERY: 2014 Cadillac ELR at Detroit
GALLERY: 2014 Cadillac ELR
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Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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SO SMART. I've been trying to figure out when, on EVs, the mechanical brakes are applied, so as to use them as little as possible. This circumvents that entirely, and gives much more control to the driver. I wonder if you can control the strength of the regen?