A New Way to Drive, With Familiar Benefits
One of the more talked-about features in electric vehicles today is One-Pedal Driving (OPD). While it may sound futuristic, it’s surprisingly intuitive. When you lift off the accelerator, the car slows down thanks to regenerative braking, which also helps recharge the battery. The brake pedal remains available for harder stops, but in many cases, it’s used less often.
Some drivers compare OPD to engine braking in a manual transmission—except it’s smoother and works all the way to a full stop. It also helps reduce fatigue by eliminating the need to constantly switch between pedals, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or city driving.
Different Driving Styles, Same Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of OPD is that it’s not “all or nothing.” Many EVs, like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Ford Mach-E, and Kia EV6, allow you to adjust regenerative braking levels or turn OPD off altogether. This lets each driver tailor the driving feel to their preference—whether that’s full regeneration or a traditional coasting experience.
A Mach-E driver shared that they prefer using OPD only during traffic jams, enjoying the control it gives without constantly using the brake. Meanwhile, others—especially those who transitioned from stick-shift vehicles—find OPD adds a sense of responsiveness that’s fun and engaging.
Small Habit, Big Impact
OPD also introduces subtle advantages. Some say it feels more ergonomic, keeping your foot in one position longer. Others enjoy the added efficiency from reduced brake wear and the energy recovered during slowing. One driver described it as a game—challenging themselves to complete an entire commute without touching the brake pedal once.
Many drivers report that once they adapt, going back to a traditional setup feels less intuitive. Others switch modes depending on conditions—using OPD in the city, and coasting on highways.
No Right or Wrong—Just Choice
Not every EV driver uses OPD, and that’s perfectly okay. What’s exciting is that most modern EVs let you choose how your car behaves—whether you want full OPD, blended braking, or something in between. As EV technology evolves, so does the driving experience.
Test it out. Feel the difference. Then decide how you want your car to drive. That’s the real power of electric mobility.
