General information on electric drive

Updated 2023/03/27

Recharge runs like a regular car, but certain functions differ from a car that only runs on petrol or diesel. The electric motor drives the car mostly at low speeds, the petrol engine at higher speeds, as well as during more active driving.

The driver display shows some information that is unique to the Recharge - charging information, selected drive mode, distance to empty battery as well as the hybrid battery's charge level.

It is possible to set the car in different drive modes while driving, e.g. electric operation only or, when power is required, both electric motor and petrol engine. The car calculates a combination of drivability, driving experience, environmental impact and fuel economy according to the drive mode selected.

In order that the car should have optimal function it is important that the hybrid battery with associated electrical drive systems, as well as the petrol engine and its drive systems, have the correct operating temperature. Battery capacity may be reduced considerably if the battery is too cold or too hot. Preconditioning prepares the car's drive systems and the passenger compartment before departure so that both wear and energy needs during the journey are reduced. The range for the hybrid battery increases.

The hybrid battery which drives the electric motor is charged via a charging cable but can also be charged by gentle braking and engine braking in gear position B. The hybrid battery can also be charged by the car's engine.

Important to know

Warning

Charging the car can affect the function of an implanted pacemaker or other medical equipment. People with an implanted pacemaker are recommended to consult a doctor before starting charging.

Car without power

Bear in mind that important functions such as the servo brakes and power steering are limited when the car is without power.

Warning

The brake servo only works when the electric motor or internal combustion engine is running.

Towing not permitted

Towing the car is not permitted since this damages the electric motor.

Exterior engine noise

Warning

Remember that the car does not emit any engine noise when it is only powered by the electric motor and may therefore be difficult to notice by children, pedestrians, cyclists and animals. This is especially true at low speeds, such as in car parks.

High-voltage current

Warning

Several components in the car work with high-voltage current that could be dangerous in the event of incorrect intervention. These components, and all orange-coloured cables, must only be handled by qualified personnel.

Do not touch anything that is not clearly described in the owner's manual.