What does the e-gear mean?
2 Answers
e-gear means the energy-saving gear. Like the d-gear, it is used for moving forward, but it can save 10% to 30% of electricity. Turning the gear knob to the e-gear starts the energy recovery mode. This mode converts the kinetic energy generated by the car itself into electrical energy. Generally, vehicle transmissions have P, R, N, D, 3, 2, and 1 gears: P-gear is the parking gear, and the selector lever must be moved to the P position when the car is parked; R-gear is the reverse gear; N-gear is the neutral gear, which can be used when starting or towing; D-gear is the forward gear, and when driving normally, the selector lever is placed in the D position, allowing the car to automatically shift between gears 1 to 3 or 4 and 5.
As someone who deals with various car conditions every day, I can tell at a glance that the E mode is designed for fuel economy in automatic transmissions. Simply put, when engaged, the transmission adjusts shift timing to keep engine RPMs lower, reducing fuel consumption—ideal for long-distance or steady-speed driving like highway cruising where the effect is most noticeable. However, in congested urban traffic with frequent stops and starts, using it may actually increase fuel consumption and accelerate wear. I recommend drivers enable it only in favorable road conditions and regularly check transmission fluid for lubrication. If the car is older, rough E-mode shifts can lead to inefficiency. Remember, E mode isn’t a cure-all—save it for long trips; stick to regular D mode for local daily driving as it offers more flexibility.