The C-Max Energi has an EV mode button on the center stack that lets the driver choose between three modes: electric-only driving, normal hybrid mode (which blends electric and gasoline engine power as appropriate) or EV-later mode, which reserves the battery pack power for later use.
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The driver-selectable Eco mode softens the throttle response and giving more authority to the EV side of the powertrain.
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Hyundai has based the Elantra GT on its Euro i30, and we can thank that in part for influencing another notable thing in this upgraded version: a driver-selectable steering mode that offers choices between Comfort, Normal and Sport.
Its foray into autos raised concern about the driver distraction implications of its Terminal mode head unit device, an innovation that is right-on, in theory, but poorly executed.
The driver can intentionally switch over to a charging mode by pressing another button on the center console.
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The new "B-mode" (SV and SL grades) allows the driver to engage an even more aggressive level of regenerative braking while decelerating, such as when going down hills.
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When the vehicle is in reverse-mode, the SmartGPS will automatically switch from navigation mode to become a rear-view monitor that allows the driver to see what is behind the vehicle including children, pets and toys, or for assistance when parking into a tight parking space.
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The rear train was operating on "automatic" mode, which is routine during rush hour, and preliminary evidence shows that the driver may have employed the brakes, Hersman said.
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Where cities have pollution restrictions, for example, a driver could elect to drive purely on the battery, or to switch to that quieter mode in a school zone.
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