What is the L button on the E transit?
The L button on the Ford E-Transit activates a higher regenerative braking setting that helps recover energy back into the battery. It is not a separate transmission gear; it’s a control for how aggressively the vehicle recharges the battery when you lift off the accelerator.
In practice, pressing L increases the deceleration you feel as you release the throttle and boosts energy recuperation. It can extend range in stop‑and‑go driving or on hills, but it may alter throttle response and isn’t always ideal for on‑highway cruising. Availability and exact behavior can vary by market and model year, so consulting the owner’s manual or your dealer for your specific E‑Transit is advisable.
What L mode does in the E-Transit
Below is a concise look at how the L button affects driving dynamics and energy use.
- Increases regenerative braking when you lift off the accelerator, providing stronger deceleration without using the brake pedal.
- Boosts energy recovery to the battery, which can help extend range in city driving, hills, or during frequent stops.
- Can change the feel of throttle response and may reduce the ease of coasting at higher speeds.
- Is not a traditional gear; the vehicle remains a single‑speed electric drivetrain, with L simply adjusting regen behavior.
Using L mode strategically can improve efficiency in appropriate driving conditions, but many drivers switch between D and L based on terrain, traffic, and personal preference. The choice is intended to optimize energy recovery without compromising safety or comfort.
How to use or toggle the L button
Here’s a general guide to engaging the L mode on typical E‑Transit configurations. Specifics can vary by trim and market, so refer to your vehicle’s manual for exact steps.
- Locate the L control near the gear selector or on the central console or stalk, depending on your model.
- Press or toggle the L switch to activate high‑regen mode. A dashboard indicator may appear showing that L is engaged.
- Drive as usual; observe the increased deceleration when you lift off the accelerator and the greater energy recovery gaining back to the battery.
- To resume standard regen or driving feel, switch back to a different mode (often D or a normal regen setting) as desired.
For first‑time users, try L on city streets with frequent stops to gauge how the brake‑off deceleration and energy recovery feel, then decide if you prefer leaving it on or switching back to standard regen for highway speeds.
Practical considerations and tips
Not everyone will need or want to use L all the time. Some drivers prefer less aggressive regen on highways or when they want smoother coast‑through behavior. If your route includes long highway stretches or you’re carrying a heavy load, you might switch between L and standard regen to balance comfort and efficiency.
Summary
The L button on the E‑Transit is a regenerative braking control that enhances energy recovery. It doesn’t shift gears; it changes how aggressively the vehicle slows when you release the accelerator, with the aim of increasing range in suitable driving conditions. Test it in familiar settings to determine whether it improves your daily driving, and consult your owner’s manual or dealer for model‑specific guidance.
