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"B" position on gear shift

6K views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  msjennifera 
#1 ·
What is the real deal with the "B" position on the Prius gear shift control? Some folks claim it is engine compression braking. Some claim it is "enhanced-improved-increased" regeneration and claim to see indications that this is so.

Is the function of the gear selector's "B" position the same across all models/years?

I happen to be on the side of the question that does not think it is extra regenerative braking but I will go with whatever is the truth.

Still super happy with our 2004 Prius at 130,000 + miles.

Patrick
 
#2 ·
Shortly after buying my Prius, I took it on a vacation in the mountains and did some experimentation with regeneration. I found no evidence of increased regenerative braking in "B". I believe it is using the engine to slow the wheels, and I believe its only usefulness is to help you maintain the desired speed on long downhill stretches without overusing (and potentially overheating) the friction brakes.

Douglas (2002 Prius, 2006 Highlander Hybrid, Wisconsin)
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#4 ·
An easy way to put it is:
For driving up/down hills and mountains, since it basically down shifts thd car (if you are used to stick drives) so the brakes /rooters are tighter for easier braking and thus lessons braking which means less wear a dress tear on the tires, brakes, and rooters compared to having to ride your brakes.

EV mode can be used then, too but the car can only use Skype much energy build up.

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
 
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