Abstract: Based on the analysis of various factors that may affect the potential of regenerative braking and an electric sedan prototype, the statistical characteristic of maximum braking power under different velocity is obtained from logged drive cycle data of a Beijing Xidan, which shows high accordance with the characteristics of electric motor. Then the net braking energy and available braking energy under typical road are analyzed, the results indicates that the maximum range improvement of regenerative braking, even in frequently stop-and-go Chang’an Street, is about 24.4%. Finally the two-dimensional distributions of braking energy to velocity-deceleration of EV(electric vehicle) and revolution-torque of electric motor are analyzed, which illustrates that the region rich in braking energy does not coincide with high regenerative braking efficiency region of electric motor. To improve the potential of regenerative braking, the design of electric drive system should consider the all-sided statistical results of drive cycle investigation, I.e., a comprehensive electric drive system design must consider not only the requirement for propulsion performance but also the potential of regenerative braking.

Key words: Drive cycle, Electric vehicle, Regenerative braking