An important element overlooked in the new BMW 5 Series GT, is the introduction for the first time in a U.S. BMW models of the Brake Energy Regeneration system. This particular technology has been already integrated in some European models as part of the BMW Efficiency Program.
The Brake Energy Regeneration system helps to save energy and therefore reduce the fuel consumptions by using an electronically controlled alternator. In most of the cars out there, the car’s alternator runs continuously and it can charge the battery at any time. In the new 5 Gran Turismo, the alternator is disengaged from the engine during normal cruise and acceleration, but it activates during decelerating or braking. This adds to the engine drag braking, and the car’s kinetic energy is effectively transformed into electrical energy which replenishes the battery. An electronically controlled clutch is added to engage and disengage the alternator.
The battery uses a technology called “glass mat”, in which its internal plates are separated with saturated absorbent glass-boron silicate rather than the usual liquid electrolyte.
Judging from the photo below, the speed gauge now has an indicator for EfficientDynamics. Despite the fac that the car in these photos are built with European specs, we expect to see the Brake Energy Regeneration in the U.S. models as well.
[Source: Autospies ]