What is Engine Braking?
1 Answers
Engine braking is the process of using the resistance generated by the engine's operation to slow down the vehicle. When the actual driving speed of the car exceeds the speed that should be achieved at the current gear and throttle position, the vehicle enters the engine braking state. Here are some related explanations: Braking speed: For example, if a vehicle is traveling at 60km/h and the throttle is released without disengaging the gear, the vehicle will be in a coasting state with the gear engaged. From this point onward, the vehicle's forward movement is influenced by engine braking. In this scenario, it is not the engine driving the wheels through the transmission, but rather the opposite—the wheels drive the engine through the transmission. Even without pressing the throttle, the engine maintains a high rotational speed. Situations for engine braking: When driving on long downhill sections, it is advisable to use engine braking to reduce the time spent applying the brakes, thereby preventing brake overheating, fading, or even failure. Due to different gear ratios, lower gears provide better engine braking effects. Therefore, the appropriate gear for coasting should be selected based on the steepness of the slope and the desired driving speed.