Upgraded Brake Systems for EVs

If you’ve got an electric vehicle, great – you’re already ahead of the game. If you have a conversion project… you’re light years ahead. But, no matter what kind of vehicle you’re driving, those factory brakes aren’t going to last you a lifetime–no matter how high-tech your ride is. It’s time to talk about upgrading those brakes before you end up in hot water.

EV Braking Systems: The Basics

EVs use something called regenerative braking–a system in your motor that takes the energy from slowing down and uses it to recharge your battery. Pretty great, right? Yes, but it also means that your EV brakes operate on a different system than the ones you’re used to in ICE cars. It enhances the efficiency of your EV, but it also means that the traditional, friction-based braking system is used less frequently, leading to different wear patterns and performance problems. Important to know.

Should You Upgrade?

Here’s the deal: if you’re not boosting the power of your motor from its original factory power level, you don’t have to upgrade the brakes. There’s generally no need. This rule also applies to ICE vehicles. However, your classic EV may now share the road with newer cars, born with better brakes and suspension than what you have. If you want your car to be as agile as others, it’s important to keep up with the right upgrades–especially if it’s your daily driver.

Air-to-Electric Brake Conversion

Considering switching from air to electric brakes? Do it. Here’s why:

1. Improved Response Time: Electronic brakes react faster than air brakes, providing quicker stopping power.

2. More Control: Electric brakes give you more precise control, which can make the difference in stability and safety.

3. Less Maintenance: Electronic systems typically require less maintenance than air systems, leaving you with a smaller hole in your pocket long-term.

Automotive Electronic Performance Modifications for Enhanced Braking

If you’re serious about your conversion, don’t stop with a kit. Take your project to the next level with these:

1. High-Performance Pads and Rotors: These bad boys are built for the specific type of abuse that comes with regenerative braking. They stop your EV cold.

2. Performance Brake Calipers: Switching to performance calipers can improve the clamping force on the brake pads, meaning you’ll stop fasting and look cooler doing it.

3. Suspension Upgrades: While not directly related to braking, getting your suspension in line with your new brakes can make overall handling and stability better.

Why Bother?

The last thing you want is for the car in front of you to stop on a dime when your car can’t. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. Upgrading your brakes makes your EV not just safer but a hell of a lot more fun to drive. So while at the end of the day, it isn’t a make or break decision, if you’ve got the means, we recommend it.

If you care about performance—and let’s face it, you wouldn’t have an EV if you didn’t—upgrading your brakes is a no-brainer. You don’t want your EV to be the one that doesn’t keep up with modern standards. Get the upgrade, drive better, and have more fun while you’re doing it. You’re welcome.