How does regenerative braking increase an EV's range?

Regenerative braking plays a crucial role in increasing an electric vehicle's (EV) range by capturing kinetic energy that would typically be lost as heat during braking and converting it back into usable electrical energy. When the driver applies the brakes, instead of relying solely on friction brakes, the system engages the electric motor to act as a generator. This process slows the vehicle down while simultaneously converting the vehicle's motion into electricity.

The electricity generated is then directed back to the vehicle's battery, where it is stored for future use. This energy recapture is significant because it means that less energy has to be drawn from the battery to propel the vehicle, effectively extending the driving range between charges. In this way, regenerative braking enhances energy efficiency, allowing drivers to travel further without needing to recharge frequently.

The other options, while they may have their own merits in different contexts, do not directly relate to how regenerative braking increases an EV's range.