Hydraulic Brakes and Regenerative Braking: The “Dual Engine” of Safety and Efficiency in Electric Scooters

In the field of high-performance electric scooters, the braking system is not only about safety but also closely tied to overall efficiency. In recent years, the combination of hydraulic brakes and regenerative braking (EBS/KERS) has become a key development direction in the industry. Let’s break down their structure and working principles.

1. Structure and Working Principle of Hydraulic Brakes

Hydraulic brakes are widely used in premium electric scooters. They rely on fluid pressure transmission to ensure fast, stable braking response. The main components include:

• Brake Lever (Master Cylinder): When the rider squeezes the lever, the master cylinder pressurizes the brake fluid.

• Brake Hose: Filled with fluid, it transmits pressure evenly to the caliper.

• Brake Caliper (Slave Cylinder): Hydraulic pressure pushes pistons to clamp the brake pads.

• Brake Pads & Disc: Friction between pads and disc generates resistance, slowing the wheel.

How it works: Rider applies force → Brake fluid pressurizes → Caliper pistons move pads → Friction force slows the wheel.
This system delivers strong, linear braking power and remains stable during high-speed or emergency braking, avoiding “soft brakes.”

2. Structure and Working Principle of Regenerative Braking

Regenerative braking (Kinetic Energy Recovery System, KERS) uses the reverse operation of the motor to recover energy. Instead of relying solely on friction, the motor works as a generator during deceleration, converting kinetic energy into electricity and feeding it back to the battery.

• Key components: Controller, drive motor, Battery Management System (BMS).

• How it works:

  1. Rider releases throttle or lightly engages electronic brake.

  2. Controller switches the motor into reverse power generation mode.

  3. Kinetic energy converts into electrical energy, safely stored by the BMS.

  4. The scooter slows down while extending battery range.

This system not only assists braking but also reduces brake pad wear and improves battery efficiency.

3. Coordination of Hydraulic Brakes and Regenerative Braking

In practice, electric scooters often use a dual braking system:

• Light braking → Regenerative system takes priority, improving energy efficiency.

• Heavy braking → Hydraulic brakes engage immediately to guarantee safety.

The combination ensures reliable high-speed braking while also enhancing range during daily rides, perfectly balancing safety and efficiency.

Conclusion

As electric scooter technology evolves, the integration of hydraulic brakes with regenerative braking is becoming an industry standard. It not only enhances rider safety but also contributes to sustainable energy use by recovering power during rides. In the future, with advancements in control algorithms and battery systems, this dual braking technology will become even more intelligent, offering riders a safer and more efficient riding experience.