What is the difference between regenerative braking and normal braking in the BMW i8?

I've noticed that the BMW i8 has both regenerative braking and normal braking. Can you explain the difference between the two and how they work?

Regenerative braking is a feature specific to electric and hybrid vehicles, including the BMW i8. It captures the kinetic energy produced during braking and converts it into electrical energy to charge the battery. This energy is then used to power the electric motor, reducing the demand on the internal combustion engine. Normal braking, on the other hand, works similarly to traditional vehicles by using friction to slow down the car.

One tip I have for you is to use regenerative braking whenever possible. It not only helps to improve the range of the electric motor, but also reduces wear and tear on the brake pads. Normal braking should be used in emergency situations or when driving at higher speeds.

In my experience, I've found that the transition between regenerative braking and normal braking can be a bit jarring in the BMW i8. My advice is to practice using both braking methods until you get a feel for how they work and when to use them.