Tesla to Reintroduce ‘Low’ Regenerative Braking Mode

Summary:

• Tesla will reportedly reintroduce the ability to select different regenerative braking strengths in an upcoming software update.
• The company’s cars previously allowed drivers to pick between “Standard” and “Low” regenerative braking.
• However, the regenerative braking strength option was axed in newer models starting in late 2020.

Tesla is planning to bring back low regenerative braking mode for all of its electric vehicles (EVs), once again allowing users to pick between different strengths for regen braking — reports Not a Tesla App.

According to the publication, the change was spotted in leaked release notes for an upcoming software update. “Choose the amount of regenerative braking applied when you release the accelerator pedal,” the release notes read.

Once the update rolls out, drivers will be able to choose between “Standard” and “Low” regen braking. While the Standard option provides the maximum amount of regenerative braking possible, setting it to Low “limits regenerative braking,” Tesla explained in the release notes.

“When you release the accelerator pedal, your vehicle will take longer to slow down and coast further than if set to ‘Standard.'”

Image: Not a Tesla App

Regenerative braking uses a vehicle’s electric motors to slow it down, making it exclusive to all-electric and hybrid vehicles. It allows for one-pedal driving — users press down on the accelerator to speed up, and easing off the gas activates the regenerative braking system.

While regenerative braking can extend a vehicle’s range by converting the kinetic energy produced from decelerating into electrical energy for the battery while also reducing wear and tear on conventional braking components, it can also take some getting used to.

Tesla originally allowed drivers to choose different regen braking strengths, but the automaker axed the option starting in late 2020. Since then, Tesla’s newer EVs have only offered standard regenerative braking, presumably to encourage more drivers to adopt the EV-exclusive driving mechanic.

While reintroducing a low regenerative braking mode will give Tesla owners more control over their driving experience, using it may slightly lower your vehicle’s overall range. Tesla started rolling out its 2023.6.15 software update with FSD beta 11.4 earlier this week, but there’s no word yet on when exactly this feature will be released.

Are you looking forward to once again being able to lower the regen braking strength on your Tesla? Let us know in the comments below.