Can the clutch release and acceleration be performed simultaneously?
2 Answers
Do not press the clutch and accelerator simultaneously; always release the accelerator first before pressing the clutch. When shifting gears, first apply the brake to reduce speed, then press the clutch to shift. For stopping, you can directly press the clutch and brake. The correct coordination between the clutch and accelerator is as follows: When starting: Press the clutch with your left foot, apply the brake with your right foot, engage first gear, release the handbrake, and prepare to shift by accelerating. Move your foot to the accelerator pedal to gently apply some gas while continuing to release the clutch for a smooth start. Once the car starts moving steadily, fully release the clutch with your left foot and prepare to shift by accelerating. When upshifting: Release the accelerator pedal, quickly press the clutch pedal with your left foot, shift the gear lever to the appropriate gear, release the clutch pedal, and while doing so, slowly press the accelerator with your right foot. When downshifting: First apply the brake to reduce speed, lightly press the accelerator with your right foot, lift your right foot, quickly press the clutch pedal, shift the gear lever to the appropriate gear, release the clutch pedal, and while doing so, slowly press the accelerator with your right foot.
As someone who frequently drives manual transmission cars, I believe that releasing the clutch and pressing the accelerator can be done simultaneously, but it requires excellent coordination. When the clutch is released, power is gradually transmitted to the wheels; if you simultaneously apply some throttle, it helps the car start smoothly and prevents stalling. I've grown accustomed to this technique in city driving: gently releasing the clutch while slowly adding a bit of throttle, which prevents the car from jerking. Otherwise, releasing the clutch too quickly can cause stalling, while pressing the accelerator too hard can make the car lurch forward. For beginners, I recommend practicing on flat ground to get a feel for the clutch bite point before adding throttle. After all, mastering this skill can extend the clutch's lifespan and reduce maintenance costs. Overall, synchronizing these two operations is a fundamental driving skill, but the movements should be gentle—don't rush it.
