Last Updated on July 22, 2024 by Kristin
One-pedal driving is a feature of some electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that allows you to accelerate, cruise and come to a stop with only the accelerator pedal. In some vehicles, such as the Nissan Leaf, it’s known as e-pedal. Hyundai calls it the i-pedal in its Ioniq 5.
The main benefits is that it extends the life of the brakes, the battery range, and overall performance of the car. Driving with a single pedal can be an adjustment but most people pick it up very quickly. And if you’re uneasy, don’t worry. You can still always the brake pedal at any time.
Ask AutoSlash for a Quote on a Cheap Car Rental
How One-Pedal Driving Works
In a gasoline-powered car, lifting off the accelerator pedal causes the vehicle to coast and slowly lose momentum. You can, of course, hasten this deceleration by hitting the brake pedal, but that wastes the vehicle’s kinetic energy—the energy it has by being in motion. When driving hybrid and electric vehicles, taking your foot off the accelerator initiates regenerative braking. This slows the vehicle and captures kinetic energy, which it sends it to the battery, which extends the battery range of your EV.
Note that while many EV models offer the option for one-pedal driving, it does not mean that the car only has one pedal. You still have a brake pedal and an accelerator.
Dos and Don’ts
Here is a list of some common things to keep in mind.
DO make sure you take time to practice in an empty parking lot or another low-traffic area. While one-pedal driving isn’t difficult, it does take a bit of time to get used to. In certain EVs (including Teslas), taking your foot completely off the accelerator causes the car to come to a complete stop. There is no coasting at all.
DON’T use this feature in a rental until you feel uncomfortable. Take time to practice beforehand.
DO remember that the driving experience can vary by vehicle type and settings.
DON’T use one-pedal driving in inclement weather conditions, such as snow. Many cars allow the driver to turn the feature on and off.
DO use your brake pedal for sudden stops.
DON’T assume that your EV has one-pedal driving, or that it is turned on when you get in the vehicle. Be sure to check the owner’s manual.
Cars with One-Pedal Driving
Dozens of makes and models of EVs feature one-pedal driving. However, keep in mind that this feature may work differently depending on the brand and model. It may or may not be already activated when you receive the vehicle. Some cars may still coast like traditional, gas-powered vehicles. Some car types may allow you to turn off this feature altogether, or adjust the intensity.
Let AutoSlash Track Your Car Rental for Price Drops
Some EVs with one-pedal driving include Teslas, the Chevrolet Bolt, the Hyundai Ioniq and Kona models, Polestar, Kia and Volvo EV models and the BMW i-series.
When to Turn Off One-Pedal Driving
It’s not safe to use one-pedal driving when roads are slippery or wet from snow or rain. In those situations, turn off the feature and use the regular brake. It’s also safer to use traditional braking when driving down a steep hill.
Related:
