braking, the motor is spun as a generator to
create electrical current. This recharges the
battery and slows the vehicle. In effect, once
the accelerator pedal is released, the motor
changes from an energy user to an energy
producer.
When you release the accelerator pedal or
press the brake pedal, the brake controller
automatically detects the amount of
deceleration requested and optimizes how
much of the deceleration will be produced
by regenerative braking. The remaining
portion is generated by standard friction
braking. When the battery is almost fully
charged, the amount of regenerative braking
is limited to avoid overcharging, and the
requested deceleration is produced by
standard friction braking alone.
Regenerative braking does not take the
place of the standard friction brakes; it only
assists them. Regenerative braking has also
been designed to interact with the anti-lock
brake system. Regenerative braking is
disabled when the anti-lock brake system is
activated or the battery is fully charged.
HINTS ON DRIVING WITH ANTI-
LOCK BRAKES
Note:
When the system is operating, the
brake pedal will pulse and may travel further.
Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. You
may also hear a noise from the system. This
is normal.
The anti-lock braking system will not
eliminate the risks when:
• You drive too closely to the vehicle in
front of you.
• Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
• You take corners too fast.
• The road surface is poor.
ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE
The electric parking brake replaces the
conventional handbrake. The operating
switch is located on the instrument panel to
the left of the steering wheel. WARNING
Always set the parking brake and leave
your vehicle with the transmission in
park (P). Note:
When you apply the electric parking
brake in certain conditions, for example on
a steep hill, the electric parking brake may
reapply the brakes within three to ten
minutes. As a result, you may notice various
noises when you apply and release the
electric parking brake. This is normal and no
cause for concern.
Applying the electric parking brake WARNING
If the brake system warning lamp does
not illuminate or flashes, there could
be a problem with your electric parking
brake. Have the system checked by an
authorized dealer as soon as possible. 193
MKZ Hybrid (), enUSA Brakes
