Patent ID: 7034480

Claim:
A method for reducing engine fuel consumption of an electro-motive vehicle during braking, the method comprising: a. providing an engine for the vehicle; b. generating primary electric power at a primary electric power generator connected to the engine; c. generating primary electric power at a secondary electric power generator, connected to the engine; d. operating a plurality of electric traction motors each coupled in driving relationship to a respective one of a plurality of driven wheels to propel the vehicle during motoring operations and to generate electricity upon braking operations of the vehicle; e. electrically connecting a braking switch between the traction motors and the primary electric power generator; f. applying braking; g. closing the braking switch during braking; h. transmitting power generated by the traction motors a dynamic braking inverter to the primary electric power generator to operate as a motor to rotate the engine and drive the secondary electric power generator to power auxiliary equipment without fueling the engine during braking.