Brake 'spongyness' varies in Eco / normal / sport

[Gabricolo]

Friction alone can create regeneration though.
Petrol and diesel cars can have regenerative braking system that help recharge the battery.
They don’t have any electric motor involved, so the friction alone is creating it.

the regen in gas cars (mild hydrid) is done using the starter/generator motor

 

[MGCamb]

How often do people brake? If in a city I would go one foot (although highly effective if pushing on country roads) but normally use the regen. I think I am more likely to have the brakes rust than wear out. Used to use the gear flippers in my previous auto car.