Current regenerative braking systems in electric vehicles have several problems, such as complex structures, too many control parameters, and inconsistent braking responses. To solve these problems, a control algorithm with multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) is proposed based on the novel regenerative-mechanical coupled brake-by-wire system. A dynamic model of the novel regenerative braking system was established to analyze the mechanism of coupled braking and propose a braking torque distribution strategy. To realize a better balance between the optimum braking stability and the maximum regenerative energy recovery based on the braking torque distribution strategy and sample points, the MDO mathematical model was developed to optimize the control parameters with the collaborative optimization algorithm. The finite sample points comprising the vehicle speed, battery state-of-charge, and braking severity were obtained through an optimal Latin hypercube design and represent the overall design space. A network was established based on the sample points and the optimization results. Using this network, the in-depth characteristics of the sample points and the optimization results were obtained through supervised learning to develop the control algorithm for vehicle braking. A simulation was performed using the normal braking condition, and the simulation results demonstrated that the control algorithm has higher control precision than conventional methods and better real-time performance than online optimization.Energies 2018, 11, 2322 2 of 18 be modulated to control the overall braking torque for meeting the requirements [5]. The regenerative braking torque depends on the motor characteristics [6], the charging power capability of the battery [7], and the available tire-road friction [8]; hence, existing research has focused on improving the braking energy recovery efficiency by distributing the torque between regenerative braking and friction braking based on drivers' demands.In engineering practice, several rule-based regenerative braking strategies have been proposed and used in recent years. For a rear-driven electric truck, a modified control strategy that determines how to distribute the braking force between the front and rear axles was proposed by Zhang to improve the recovery efficiency [9]. Xiao presented an integrated control strategy to coordinate regenerative and friction braking forces to deal with the braking stability and recovery efficiency when a vehicle performed normal deceleration and emergency braking [3]. To regenerate more braking energy and move closer to the ideal braking force distribution curve, a combined braking control strategy was developed for the rear wheel-driven series hybrid electric EV to adjust the proportions of regenerative braking and friction braking [10]. A regenerative braking cooperative control strategy was proposed by Jiweon for hybrid EVs equipped with a hydraulic brake on the rear wheels and an electronic wedge brake on the front wheels [11].Optimization and...