Energy Recovery and Power Management in EVs Using Supercapacitors and Regenerative Braking

Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly popular due to their efficiency and low emissions, but maximizing their driving range remains critical. Regenerative braking systems recover some of a vehicle’s kinetic energy during deceleration, reducing waste and extending range. However, batteries alone may be unable to absorb high-power braking pulses efficiently. This paper theoretically examines a hybrid energy storage approach combining batteries with supercapacitors (SCs) to improve energy recovery in EVs. We review the principles of regenerative braking and supercapacitor operation, then outline a system design and control strategy to manage power between the motor, SC bank, and battery. The analysis suggests that supercapacitor-assisted braking can capture a larger fraction of braking energy and alleviate battery stress, improving overall efficiency. Key benefits include higher round-trip efficiency, reduced battery wear, and enhanced performance; limitations include added cost, weight, and control complexity. The discussion is supported by current literature on EV powertrains and hybrid storage systems.