The ELR's paddle shifters allow drivers to temporarily regenerate energy and store it as electricity in the battery pack for later use, unlike traditional performance vehicles where the steering wheel-mounted paddles allow drivers to upshift and downshift the mechanical transmission according to a company press release.

Click here to read more on GM's website.

ELR's Regen on Demand feature is new to the compact luxury coupe and helps the brand to continue to build upon Cadillac's performance-bred heritage.

"Regen on Demand enables ELR drivers to actively re-capture energy when slowing down, such as when approaching slower traffic or setting up for a tight turn," said Chris Thomason, ELR chief engineer. "This allows the driver to take more active role in the electric vehicle driving experience."

Regen on Demand works by the driver taking his or her foot off the accelerator and pressing on one of the two steering-wheel paddles according to GM. Both paddles work by generating engery, which decelerates the vehicle.

GM assures customers that Regen on Demand won't stop the car completely but will allow a driver to coast or manage tight turns smoothly.

"Pulling back on the paddle to slow down allows the ELR driver to keep their foot close to the throttle, ready to accelerate," Thomason said. "It provides a more engaged, satisfying driving experience, and when you consider the added benefit of re-capturing energy, it's also a smart thing to do."

The new model will go on sale in early 2014.

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