Buick 2014 LaCrosse Quick Reference Manual page 19

Driver Efficiency Gauge
The driver efficiency gauge assists you in driving efficiently. To maximize efficiency, attempt
to keep the pointer in the solid green zone in the middle of the gauge. The gauge moves
down when braking and up when accelerating or driving at high speeds. When driving
aggressively, it is less efficient and the gauge will move farther away from center. The
eAssist system's ability to capture energy while the vehicle is slowing down makes deceler-
ating important for vehicle efficiency.
Climate Control Settings
Select the eco Air Conditioning setting (green A/C indicator) for maximum efficiency. This
setting will maximize the frequency and duration of Auto Stops while still providing cabin
comfort when the vehicle is in an Auto Stop. To further maximize efficiency, operate the
climate controls in the Automatic mode at the highest comfortable temperature setting or
turn off the air conditioning system when climate conditions allow.
Select the comfort Air Conditioning setting (amber A/C indicator) for maximum cabin
comfort. Auto Stops will be reduced in both frequency and duration.
Regenerative Braking
When braking or coasting, the electric motor acts like a generator to charge the high-
voltage battery. This "regenerative braking" process captures kinetic energy that would
otherwise be lost and stores it in the high-voltage battery. This electrical energy can then
be reused.
Note: Capturing kinetic energy causes transmission shifts that have more feel when braking or coasting.
Next Generation Transmission
The eAssist system employs a next generation six-speed transmission with sophisticated
algorithms that continuously store information about your driving style, such as acceleration
and braking. Over the first 250–400 miles, some transmission shifts may be more notice-
able. As the vehicle is driven in a variety of city and highway driving conditions, eAssist will
use its onboard processing power to quickly "learn" your driving habits to deliver a seam-
less driving experience.
Hill Start Assist
After stopping on an incline, the Hill Start Assist feature momentarily holds the vehicle
when the brake pedal is released. The driver-applied brake pressure is used during the
stop to keep the vehicle from rolling during the period between when the brake pedal is
released and the accelerator pedal is applied.
eAssist Features
See Instruments and Controls in your Owner Manual.
See Climate Controls in your Owner Manual.
See In Brief in your Owner Manual.
See Driving and Operating in your Owner Manual.
See Driving and Operating in your Owner Manual.
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