How Do You Use B Mode and Pre-Cool the Car

[CorrinMIXR]

I’m a first-time EV owner, and I just got myself a 2014 RAV4 EV. So far, I’m loving the ride! But I’ve got a couple of questions as I get used to it:

How do you all use the B setting? I’ve heard it can be pretty handy for regen, but I’m curious how other RAV4 EV drivers work it into their routine.

Pre-cooling while plugged in, how does that work? I’ve heard you can pre-cool the car while it’s charging, and that sounds like a great feature, especially on hot days. Any tips on how to set that up? Looking forward to learning more from you all.

 

[fred_dot_u]

B-mode is pretty easy to manage. For example, approaching a stop sign or other known requirement for slowing, moving to B position creates additional drag on the vehicle, while increasing the regeneration level. Once stopped or if slowing is no longer needed, a quick push to D removes the additional regen, but even if forgotten, it's ignored while pressing on the accelerator pedal.

The amount of regeneration is a slight increase compared to not using it but fairly noticeable overall.

We rarely used the air conditioning on our 2013 and never used the pre-conditioning, otherwise I'd make an attempt to assist. From what I recall, it's pretty straightforward.

 

[alflash]

Take a look recuperation HV Battery charge current in B mode when braking

(1:02)

 

[asavage]

Some people leave it in B mode all the time; I would myself, except that Toyota's implementation on this car disables cruise control in B mode, and I use CC all the time, so I switch between D & B modes all the time. That used to drive my partner batty.

The app to remotely control the climate controls required a monthly subscription to Toyota, never worked well, and died for good when the 3G network was decommissioned a few years ago. However, the onboard scheduler for pre-heat/pre-cool worked well for me when I had a regular schedule/commute; I'd have it pre-heat the cabin 15 minutes before my usual departure time in the morning, so I'd never need to defrost, for example. The scheduler is accessed via the main touch screen.

 

[bdunst]

Like Al - I drive in B mode all the time except when using cruise control.
I never used pre-cool - the AC works really well and doesn't use a lot of battery.
Pre - Heat I use about 6 months a year - this week temps dropped into the 50's overnight- so fits use of the season. Set up the schedule on teh EV charge screen.

 

[chrisspy]

I use B only to increase regen. coasting in D is more efficient but there may not be enough space. B helps avoid using brakes.
to help pre-heat, I charge 30-60min before departure.
never had to pre-cool but I will leave it on & Cooling to maintain comfort while running errands, also for dog's comfort. remote in car, valet key to lock. Sun shield (external is best) & shade are your friends.

 

[chrisspy]

if I lightly press brake pedal, purple regen bars increase. it's a mystery how much it increases regen but I prefer to make electricity than brake dust.