Smart Trip Reev
Feature Proposal: "Smart Trip" Mode for Leapmotor REEV (Hybrid EV) Working name: Smart Trip Mode (Distance-Based Energy Management) Applies to: B10 REEV, C10 REEV (and future Hybrid EV / EREV models) Summary I'd like to propose a new, optional drive mode in which the driver enters the planned trip distance (manually or automatically from navigation). Based on this, the system manages the range-extender (generator) operation so that: the traction battery reaches approximately 5% SOC exactly at the end of the trip (maximising use of electric energy), the generator operates only in its optimal efficiency point ("sweet spot"), the situation where, at low SOC, the generator is forced to run at maximum power - loud and less efficient - is avoided. Problem it solves In the current drive modes (EV, EV+, Fuel, Power+), the decision to start the generator is reactive - based only on the current battery level, with no awareness of the planned trip length. As a result, on a trip longer than the EV range, the generator often only kicks in once the battery is nearly depleted, and then has to immediately supply high power (for both propulsion and charging at the same time). This means operating outside the optimal efficiency point - higher noise and higher fuel consumption - even though the driver knew from the start that the trip would be long. How it works The driver enters the trip distance (or selects "Use route from navigation"). The system calculates: the predicted energy consumption for the whole trip (based on average consumption, elevation profile and speed data from navigation), the available battery energy down to 5% SOC, the energy deficit = total trip consumption − available battery energy. Based on this deficit, the system determines how many times - and at what output - the generator needs to run at its "sweet spot" to cover the deficit. These generator cycles are distributed across the whole trip so that: SOC never drops below a "safety curve" (a buffer for acceleration, hills, overtaking, etc.), SOC reaches ~5% exactly at the end of the trip, rather than earlier. The algorithm continuously adjusts the plan in real time if actual consumption deviates from the forecast (e.g. more dynamic driving, route changes, traffic). Driver-facing UI New entry in the drive mode menu: "Smart Trip" (alongside EV / EV+ / Fuel / Power+). After selecting it: a field to enter the distance (km), or a "Use route from navigation" button (auto-fill). A simple chart on the central display: planned SOC vs. distance, with live progress overlaid. Optional adjustment of the target end-of-trip SOC (default 5%, but the user can set e.g. 10-20% as an extra safety margin, e.g. in winter). Benefits Lower fuel consumption - the generator runs mainly at its optimal efficiency point, rarely in "emergency" full-power mode. Lower cabin noise - avoids the scenario where the engine suddenly has to spin up to high RPM/power because the battery is nearly empty. Maximum use of electric energy - a higher share of "electric-only" driving while keeping a minimal, safe battery reserve. Predictability - the driver knows in advance how the energy profile of the trip will unfold. Possible future extensions Incorporate terrain/elevation and speed-limit data from navigation - predictive generator activation before climbs. Factor in outside temperature and HVAC/heating consumption into the energy forecast. Variants: "Eco Smart Trip" (priority: fuel economy) vs. "Comfort Smart Trip" (priority: quietness/cabin comfort). Post-trip summary: actual fuel/energy consumption vs. forecast - useful both as driver feedback and for further algorithm calibration. Submitted by a Leapmotor B10 REEV owner as a functional suggestion for the R&D/software team to consider.
