Is it true that these work with the brakes to charge the battery, and I cannot get new rims put on without losing this feature? Or is it just the breaks, and does not matter what rims are on the car?

Thanks in advance,

Noah

 

go ahead no problem with braking and regen. ect. aerodynamics maybe ? but under 55 mph does not matter.

 

The traction motor (MG2) in the eCVT becomes a generator that is turned by the front wheels when you let Off the gas pedal in "D" or apply the brake pedal. The slowing down of the vehicle increases the charge of this generator which is stored in the HV battery. The harder you apply the brake pedal the more resistance MG2 creates and a higher charge goes into the battery. At a point, MG2 is slowing the vehicle at 100% and then the brake pads are applied to slow the vehicle harder.

The rims, tires or brake pads have nothing to do with regenerative braking (regen). You therefore can change the tires and rims without affecting regen. A word of caution, the stock rims and tires are "Low Roll Resistant" to give you good gas mileage. A heavier rim or tire will likely reduce your MPG. In addition, a change in the diameter of a rim or tire size may require a dealer adjustment to the PCM so vehicle speed sensors match as programmed. If wheel speed sensors do not match transmission and engine speed sensors a warning light may come On.

GaryG

 

Thank you Gary

 

Ford designed the alloy wheels for better aerodynamics. Changing them for another design may make your ride more unique but it will cost some in the mpg dept.