What is the B mode on a Lexus ct200h?
A concise explanation: B mode is the engine-braking setting in the CT200h’s hybrid system that increases regenerative braking to slow the car and recharge the battery without heavy use of the brake pedal.
On the Lexus CT200h, B mode engages stronger engine braking and regenerative energy recovery when you lift off the accelerator. This helps slow the vehicle and charge the hybrid battery, especially on downhill grades or when you want tighter control without applying the brakes. It is not a performance mode; it prioritizes energy regeneration and deceleration over acceleration.
How B mode works
When you select B, the hybrid system prioritizes engine braking and regenerative energy recovery. The electric motor operates as a generator, converting some of the car’s kinetic energy into stored electrical energy in the high-voltage battery.
As you ease off the accelerator, the motor creates resistance, slowing the car more than in normal D mode. The friction brakes may still assist if more stopping power is needed, but B mode reduces reliance on the brake pedal and can reduce brake wear on long descents.
Activation and practical use
Activation is straightforward: shift the transmission from D to the B position (the exact lever action can vary by market). Once in B, you’ll notice stronger deceleration when you lift off the accelerator. You can still press the brake pedal if you need extra stopping force or to come to a complete stop.
When to use B mode
If you want to understand the best times to engage B mode, consider its purpose: more deceleration without using the brake pedal, plus enhanced energy regeneration during downhill driving or when you want more battery charge on the go.
- Descending long or steep grades where tighter speed control and increased regenerative charging are desirable.
- Coasting situations where you prefer deceleration without heavy reliance on the brake pedal.
- In everyday highway cruising, B mode is usually unnecessary and may slightly reduce efficiency since the system prioritizes charging over straight-line efficiency.
In slippery conditions, use B mode with caution. Regenerative braking depends on traction and the braking balance, and you should always adapt to road conditions and traffic.
Summary
B mode on the Lexus CT200h is a driver-selected setting that increases engine and regenerative braking to slow the car and recharge the battery. It’s most useful on downhill grades or when you want tighter deceleration without using the foot brake. For typical daily driving, D mode with standard regenerative behavior remains sufficient, and B mode should be reserved for the scenarios described above.
When should I use B mode?
Use "B" gear (or "Brake" mode) in hybrid vehicles for strong engine braking, primarily when driving down steep hills to maintain speed and save your brakes. It can also be used for stop-and-go traffic and approaching red lights to improve energy recovery, which recharges the battery more efficiently than regular "D" (Drive) mode and reduces wear on the friction brakes.
This video explains what the 'B' gear is and when to use it: 1mFred Anderson ToyotaYouTube · Mar 26, 2021
When to use B gear
- On steep or long descents: Use "B" mode on downhills to help slow the car and maintain a steady speed without relying solely on the brake pedal, which can overheat.
- In heavy traffic: In stop-and-go situations, "B" mode allows for smoother deceleration and increases regenerative braking, recharging the battery more effectively.
- When approaching a stop: You can shift to "B" mode in advance of a red light or stop sign to slow the car gently and conserve brake life.
Why it's beneficial
- Maximizes regenerative braking: By increasing engine drag, the system captures more kinetic energy to recharge the hybrid battery, which can improve efficiency and extend electric driving range.
- Extends brake life: Using "B" mode for engine braking reduces the wear and tear on your traditional brake pads, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
- Offers better control: The driver experiences more resistance, which provides greater control, especially in situations where you need to slow down consistently without constant braking.
You can watch this video to learn how to use Toyota Hybrid B gear: 54sPeter Finn the Car DoctorYouTube · Feb 4, 2024
What happens if I drive in B all the time?
Tip: B mode is not for everyday flat-road driving—it can make your hybrid slightly less fuel-efficient if used all the time, as it prioritises engine braking over coasting.
What is the B gear on the Lexus ct200h?
Situations. Not sure I'll ever hit that when I'm wanting to panic break. But that's what the mode is for. So normally you go down over there's drive simple as that you want to go to B mode.
What is the B mode on a Lexus hybrid?
The shift lever offers four positions: R (Reverse), N (neutral), B (engine braking) and D (drive). Position B introduces engine braking and can be used to help slow the vehicle, such as when descending a hill. But we do not recommend leaving the car in this mode for normal driving as it can use more fuel over time.
