A project report on

BRAKING SYSTEM of NISSAN LEAF

Submitted to

Syed Hassan Shah

(Assistant Professor Mechanical Engineering Department)

Submitted by

• Fatima Saleem BME193059

• Ammad Jamshaid BME193064

A Project Report submitted to the
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Course of INTRODUCTION TO HYBRID
ELECTRIC VEHICLES of the degree of
BACHELORS OF SCIENCE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Faculty of Engineering
Capital University of Science and Technology
Islamabad
April, 2023
Copyright © 2023 by CUST Student
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form requires the prior written
permission of Fatima Saleem BME193059 and Ammad Jamshaid BME193064 or designated
representative.

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 ABSTRACT
A regenerative braking system is a type of braking system that is used in hybrid and electric
vehicles to convert the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electrical energy that can be stored in a
battery or used to power the vehicle's electric motor. The system works by using the electric
motor as a generator when the brakes are applied, which converts the kinetic energy of the
vehicle into electrical energy that can be stored or used immediately. The Nissan LEAF is a
newly developed Electric Vehicle designed for the Zero Emission, offering new mobility for
zero-emission achieving understanding environmental performance. Nissan LEAF is powered by
lithium-ion battery and an electric motor. Nissan LEAF works on the principle of regenerative
braking with the invention of E-pedal to it, it is proved to be the most efficient system in the
history of battery powered vehicles. This report focuses on the working of regenerative braking
and highlights the advantages of regenerative braking over frictional braking.

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Table of Contents
ABSTRACT...................................................................................................................................iii
List Of Figures.................................................................................................................................v
Chapter:1..........................................................................................................................................1
Introduction......................................................................................................................................1
Chapter:2..........................................................................................................................................3
Braking System................................................................................................................................3
2.1 Regenerative Braking system....................................................................................................3
2.2 Block Diagram of Regenerative Braking System......................................................................4
2.3 Mechanism.................................................................................................................................5
2.3.1 Series Regenerative Braking System......................................................................................5
2.3.2 Parallel Regenerative Braking System...................................................................................5
2.4 Braking System of Nissan Leaf.................................................................................................6
2.5 Parts of Regenerative Braking System......................................................................................7
2.6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Regenerative Braking System............................................8
2.6.1 Advantages.............................................................................................................................8
2.6.2 Disadvantages.........................................................................................................................8
2.7 Vehicle using Regenerative braking system..............................................................................9
2.8 Comparison of Regenerative braking System over Friction braking........................................9
2.8.1 Pros of Regenerative braking systems over simple braking systems.....................................9
2.8.2 Cons of Regenerative braking systems over simple braking systems..................................10
Chapter:3........................................................................................................................................11
Further Research for Improvement................................................................................................11
Chapter:4........................................................................................................................................12
Conclusion.....................................................................................................................................12
References......................................................................................................................................13

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 List of Figures
Figure 1 Nissan Leaf...................................................................................................................................2
Figure 2 Regenerative Braking....................................................................................................................3
Figure 3 Nissan Leaf with E-Pedal..............................................................................................................4
Figure 4 Block Diagram of Regenerative Braking.......................................................................................4
Figure 5 Mechanism of Regenerative Braking............................................................................................5
Figure 6 Nissan Leaf Regenerative Braking................................................................................................7
Figure 7 Components of Regenerative Braking...........................................................................................8

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Chapter:1
Introduction
The Nissan Leaf is a fully electric car manufactured by Nissan, and it is one of the most popular
electric vehicles (EVs) in the world. It was first introduced in 2010 and has undergone several
updates and revisions since then.

The car has a range of up to 226 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for most daily
commutes and even longer trips. It has a modern and sleek design, with a spacious and
comfortable interior. The car is also equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic
emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.[1]
One of the most significant advantages of the Leaf is its environmental friendliness. It produces
zero emissions, making it an excellent option for those who are concerned about their carbon
footprint. The car also offers several other benefits, including lower operating costs, reduced
maintenance costs, and a smooth and quiet driving experience.

In February 2014, the Automotive Science Group (ASG) published the result of a study
conducted to assess the life-cycle of over 1,300 automobiles across nine categories sold in North
America. The study found that among advanced automotive technologies, the Nissan Leaf holds
the smallest life-cycle environmental footprint of any model year 2014 automobile available in
the North American market with minimum four-person occupancy. The study concluded that the
increased environmental impacts of manufacturing the battery electric technology are more than
offset with increased environmental performance during operational life. For the assessment, the
study used the average electricity mix of the U.S. grid in 2014. [2]

In addition to being environmentally friendly, the Leaf offers several benefits, including lower
operating costs, reduced maintenance costs, and a smooth and quiet driving experience. The car
can be charged at home or at public charging stations, and it can be fully charged in as little as
7.5 hours.

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Overall, the Nissan Leaf is a practical and eco-friendly car that offers a great driving experience
and advanced features. Its popularity has helped to promote the use of electric vehicles and has
contributed to the growth of the EV market.

Figure 1 Nissan Leaf [3]

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Chapter:2
Braking System
2.1 Regenerative Braking system

Regenerative braking principle works when the driver applies the brake pedal, the vehicle’s
electric motor switches from propulsion mode to regenerative braking mode. This allows the
electric motor to act as a generator, converting some of the kinetic energy that would otherwise
be lost as heat during braking into electrical energy, which is then fed back into the vehicle's
battery.
The regenerative braking system is particularly effective in stop-and-go traffic, where frequent
braking is required, and can help to extend the vehicle's range by reducing the need for frequent
recharging. It is also an important feature for eco-conscious drivers who are looking for a more
sustainable and energy-efficient way to drive.

Figure 2 Regenerative Braking [4]

The regenerative braking system is designed to be able to capture as much energy as possible,

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and can be adjusted by the driver using the car's e-Pedal feature. When the e-Pedal is engaged,
the car uses regenerative braking to slow down and come to a complete stop without the driver
needing to use the brake pedal. This helps to maximize energy recovery during braking and
reduces wear on the traditional hydraulic braking system.

Figure 3 Nissan Leaf with E-Pedal [5]

2.2 Block Diagram of Regenerative Braking System

Figure 4 Block Diagram of Regenerative Braking [6]

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2.3 Mechanism
 There are two types of Regenerative Braking System. They are as follow

 Series Regenerative Braking System

 Parallel Regenerative Braking System

2.3.1 Series Regenerative Braking System

The Series Regenerative Braking is a type of setup in the Regenerative Braking System, which is
combined with a friction-based adjustable braking system. The Series setup transfers energy to
the Electric Motors and Battery by using an Integrated Control Mechanism. A series regenerative
braking system is complex to implement as compared to the other type of Kinetic Energy
Recovery Systems (which is also called as parallel regenerative braking system). But here the
energy recovery is higher and the drivability of the vehicle can be preserved. [9]

2.3.2 Parallel Regenerative Braking System

The Parallel Braking System is another type of setup in Regenerative Braking System, which is a
combination of a friction based braking system without Integrated Controls and a regenerative
braking system operated in Tandem. It is also called as Kinetic Energy Recovery System. In
simple words, in this setup the friction braking force and the regenerative braking force can’t be
adjusted easily. Parallel regenerative braking system do not require a complex control system
and it can be used without any alteration to existing friction based braking systems. [9]

Figure 5 Mechanism of Regenerative Braking [7]

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2.4 Braking System of Nissan Leaf

Nissan has an advanced system called Electric Driven Intelligent Brake. It combines traditional
hydraulic braking, which is known for a natural feel through the brake pedal, and regenerative
braking to enhance range. Nissan Leaf has many amazing features and one of that is regenerative
braking system. Regenerative braking systems (RBSs) are a type of kinetic energy recovery
system that transfers the kinetic energy of an object in motion into potential or stored energy to
slow the vehicle down, and as a result increases fuel efficiency. The Nissan Leaf uses a parallel
regenerative braking system. In a parallel regenerative braking system, the electric motor is used
both as a propulsion motor to move the vehicle and as a generator during braking to convert
kinetic energy into electrical energy that is fed back into the battery.
The regenerative braking system of the Nissan Leaf is an important feature that helps to
maximize the vehicle's efficiency and range
This is in contrast to a series regenerative braking system, where the electric motor is used only
as a generator during braking, and a separate system is used for propulsion. Series regenerative
braking systems are typically found in hybrid vehicles, where an internal combustion engine is
used in combination with an electric motor.
The parallel regenerative braking system used in the Nissan Leaf is highly efficient and effective
in capturing energy during braking, helping to maximize the vehicle's range and reduce wear on
the traditional hydraulic braking system. Additionally, the regenerative braking system can be
adjusted by the driver using the car's e-Pedal feature to further optimize energy recovery and
driving efficiency.

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 Figure 6 Nissan Leaf Regenerative Braking [8]

2.5 Parts of Regenerative Braking System

Regenerative Braking is a type of Electric Braking System; mostly it consists electrical and
electronic devices or parts. So, the parts of Regenerative Braking System are:

 Electric Traction Motor

 Battery Pack

 Hydraulic Pump

 Accumulator

 Hydraulic Circuit

 Reservoir

 Hydraulic Valves

 Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

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 Figure 7 Components of Regenerative Braking [9]

2.6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Regenerative Braking System

2.6.1 Advantages

The Advantages of Regenerative Braking System are

 It saves around 30% of energy consumption in Internal Combustion Engine.

 The Regenerative Braking System Increases battery autonomy.
 Regenerative Braking Mechanism is Ideal for frequent stop and go activities.
 The Kinetic Energy Recovery System gives Zero consumption when vehicle stopped but
turned on.
 The efficiency is high compared to other types of braking system. [10]

2.6.2 Disadvantages

The Disadvantages of Regenerative Braking System are

 It requires additional equipment for control the vehicle, so the cost is high.

 In case of regenerative Braking Mechanism (or Energy Recovery Mechanism), the DC
machines of larger size are required, so it increases the weight of the locomotive and thus
the required mechanical strength too

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  The Kinetic Energy Recovery System makes the operation of substations complex.
 The process is more complex and required skilled technicians to operate when it requires
maintenance.
 As it requires a motor, the space requirement is more and the weight of the whole vehicle
will be increased. [10]

2.7 Vehicle using Regenerative braking system

Regenerative braking systems are commonly used in electric and hybrid vehicles to capture
energy that is otherwise lost during braking and use it to recharge the battery or power the
vehicle's electrical systems.
Aside from the Nissan Leaf, other vehicles that use regenerative braking systems include:
1. Tesla Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y
2. Chevrolet Bolt EV and Volt
3. Toyota Prius and Prius Prime
4. BMW i3
5. Ford Fusion Energi and C-Max Energi
6. Hyundai Ioniq Electric and Kona Electric
7. Kia Niro EV and Soul EV
8. Audi e-tron
Regenerative braking systems are becoming increasingly common as automakers seek to
improve the energy efficiency and driving range of their electric and hybrid vehicles.

2.8 Comparison of Regenerative braking System over Friction braking

2.8.1 Pros of Regenerative braking systems over simple braking systems

1. Energy recovery:
Regenerative braking systems capture some of the kinetic energy that is normally lost as heat
during braking and convert it into electrical energy, which can be used to recharge the battery or
power the vehicle's electrical systems. Simple braking systems, on the other hand, dissipate this
energy as heat and do not provide any energy recovery. [11]

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 2. Efficiency:
Regenerative braking systems can be highly efficient, helping to reduce the amount of energy
that is required to power the vehicle and extend its driving range. Simple braking systems are
less efficient since they convert kinetic energy into heat that is lost to the environment.
3. Reduced wear:
Regenerative braking systems can help to reduce wear on the traditional hydraulic braking
system since they are designed to be the primary means of slowing down the vehicle. Simple
braking systems, on the other hand, are used more frequently and can wear out faster. [11]

2.8.2 Cons of Regenerative braking systems over simple braking systems

However, there are also some disadvantages to regenerative braking systems:
1. Complexity:
Regenerative braking systems are more complex than simple braking systems and require more
advanced technology to operate. This can make them more expensive to manufacture and
maintain.

2. Limited effectiveness:
Regenerative braking systems are most effective at low speeds and during light braking. During
heavy or emergency braking, simple braking systems may need to be used to provide additional
stopping power.

Overall, regenerative braking systems are a more efficient and effective way to slow down and
stop a vehicle compared to simple braking systems. However, they are also more complex and
may have limited effectiveness in certain situations. [12]

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Chapter:3
Further Research for Improvement

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a commercial transportation solution. According to the
Electric Vehicles Initiative, the aggregated goal for all countries with known deployment targets
is 7.2 million in EV sales for 2020. However, nowadays autonomy is still one of the major
obstacles to massive adoption of EVs, resulting in practice on EVs use being restricted to urban
areas. In this context, the research and development of EV modeling and simulation tools,
particularly aimed for road traffic analysis, plays an important role.
The current research presents a fuzzy logic model of regenerative braking (FLmRB) for
modeling EVs’ regenerative braking systems (RBSs). The model has the vehicle’s acceleration
and jerk, and the road inclination as input variables, and the output of the FLmRB is the
regeneration factor, i.e., the ratio of regenerative braking force to the total braking force.
The regeneration factor expresses the percentage of energy recovered to the battery from
braking. The purpose of the FLmRB development is to create realistic EV models using as least
as possible manufacturers intellectual property data, and avoiding the use of EV on-board
sensors. To tune the model, real data was gathered from short and long-distance field tests with a
Nissan LEAF and compared with two types of simulations, one using the proposed FLmRB, and
the other considering that all the braking force/energy is converted to electric current and
returned back to charge the battery (100% regeneration).
The results show that the FLmRB can successfully infer the regenerative braking factor from the
measured EV acceleration and jerk, and road inclination, without any knowledge about the EV
brake control strategy.

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Chapter:4
Conclusion

The Regenerative Braking System offers several important advantages that friction brake
vehicles do not have, for example; if a small deceleration is required (low-speed, stop and go
traffic), the Regenerated Braking Mechanism provides the majority of the total braking force
with improved fuel economy. In recent years, the increase in use and production of Electric
Vehicles for environment safety have led to improvement and advancement in RBS. In
conclusion, regenerative braking systems are an important technology that is being increasingly
used in electric and hybrid vehicles to improve their energy efficiency and driving range. By
capturing some of the kinetic energy that is normally lost during braking and converting it into
electrical energy, regenerative braking systems can help to reduce the amount of energy that is
required to power the vehicle and extend its driving range.
Regenerative braking systems also have the advantage of reducing wear on the traditional
hydraulic braking system and are more efficient than simple braking systems. However, they can
be more complex and expensive to manufacture and maintain, and may have limited
effectiveness during heavy or emergency braking.
Overall, regenerative braking systems are an important technology that helps to improve the
sustainability and efficiency of electric and hybrid vehicles, and their use is likely to become
even more widespread in the future as automakers continue to invest in new technologies to
reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

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References
[1] K. E. B. S. R. Cikanek, "Regenerative Braking System For A Hybrid Electric Vehicle," Proceedings
of the American Control Conference, pp. 3129-3134, 2002.
[2] "Automotive Science Group," February 2014. [Online]. Available:
https://www.automotivescience.com. [Accessed 22 April 2023].
[3] "Nissan Leaf Review," Carwow, [Online]. Available: https://www.carwow.co.uk/nissan/leaf#gref.
[Accessed 21 April 2023].
[4] "Regenerative Braking," [Online]. Available: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/regenerative-braking-
what-how-works-shradha-jadhav/?trk=read_related_article-card_title. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[5] "Electrek," [Online]. Available: https://electrek.co/2017/07/19/nissan-next-gen-leaf-e-pedal-driving-
regenerative-braking/. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[6] "ResearchGate," [Online]. Available: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Block-diagram-of-
Regenerative-Braking-System_fig1_362491719. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[7] "Mechanical Basics," [Online]. Available: https://mechanicalbasics.com/regenerative-braking-
system-working-with-faqs/. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[8] "EVup," [Online]. Available: https://www.evup.com.au/about-evup/ev-news/how-does-
regenerative-braking-work. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[9] "FormulaBharat," [Online]. Available: https://www.formulabharat.com/blog/regenerative-braking-
in-evs-an-overview/. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[10] "Tires Plus," [Online]. Available: https://www.tiresplus.com/blog/brakes/what-is-regenerative-
braking-in-electric-vehicles/. [Accessed 21 April 2023].
[11] I. Hussain, Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, Pak Square, Milton Park: CRS Press, 2021.
[12] Y. G. S. L. K. E. Mehrdad Ehsani, Modern Electric Hybrid Electric and Fuel Cell Vehicles, Broken
Sound Parkway NW: CRC Press, 2018.

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