DS Automobiles’s latest prototype could cast aside conventional braking in favour of a regenerative-only braking system.
Regenerative braking captures some of the energy traditionally wasted as heat through braking and uses it to recharge the car’s batteries. Most electric vehicles already have it, as well as some hybrids and even some ICE cars, but as a complement to the conventional friction brakes.
The French carmaker’s new prototype, the DS E TENSE PERFORMANCE, was designed to explore whether electric motor regeneration can be used as a vehicle’s sole method for stopping and slowing. This technology would remove the purpose of traditional brake discs and pads in the vehicle.
Beatrice Foucher, DS Automobiles CEO, said: “Regenerative braking is a very powerful way to not only slow the vehicle down, but also help improve battery performance. The DS E TENSE PERFORMANCE takes the technology to a new level, with regenerative braking used solely to slow the vehicle down.”
The prototype has been designed using technology from the brand’s Formula E racing car, including its two onboard electric motors, which enable the regenerative braking process.
According to DS Automobiles, the prototype can accelerate from 0-62mph in just two seconds, thanks to 815hp and 8,000Nm of torque. When plugged into a 350kW charging port, the vehicle can reach a full charge in as little as five minutes.
Foucher said: “Formula E is about maximising performance and efficiency, and the DS E TENSE PERFORMANCE is our vision of a road car utilising our race-winning technology.”