What does the number B on a car mean and when should it be used?

In addition to the familiar gear modes on cars such as P - parking, R - reversing or D - driving... on some new cars today, especially electric cars and hybrid cars, there is also a gear mode B, often denoted by the letter B. However, in reality, many car users do not know the meaning, function or use of gear mode B.

What is B mode on a car?

B mode is often equipped on automatic cars, especially hybrid cars, electric cars (EV). The symbol B stands for "Brake". When using B mode, the gearbox will downshift to increase the braking force from the engine, helping to reduce the speed of the car without having to brake too much. Simply put, B mode works similarly to using low gear modes (such as L, 2, 1) on automatic cars in general.

Typically, B mode has two main functions. The first is engine braking, whereby when you shift into B and take your foot off the accelerator, the car will slow down significantly more than it would normally in D because the engine or electric motor creates resistance to the rotation of the wheels, helping to slow the car without having to brake as often.

In addition, hybrid cars or B-speed electric cars also have a regenerative braking function. While the electric motor slows the car, it acts as a generator by converting energy to charge the battery, helping the car save more energy.

When to use B mode

B gear is designed for use in specific situations, not for normal driving on flat roads.

Instead, the B gear engine brake function is often used when driving down a long slope. Using B gear will help slow down the vehicle, so the driver does not have to keep his foot on the brake for a long time. This will help reduce the heat build-up on the brake pads and discs, prevent brake burnout or brake failure that can lead to serious accidents, and at the same time charge the battery quite effectively.

In addition, the driver can also use B gear when driving in the city, heavy traffic constantly braking, stopping the car. At this time, B gear will help the car reduce speed gently, reducing unnecessary braking.

Also, when you need to slow down quickly; for example, when you see a red light ahead, you can shift to B to slow down before applying the brakes. The driver can, shift the gear from D to B or from B back to D while the car is moving. There is no need to stop the car.

It is important to note that B is not the same as S (sport). S is designed to pull the engine rpm higher for better acceleration, while B is mainly focused on deceleration.