How to Brake with Tesla's Single-Pedal Mode?
3 Answers
Tesla's single-pedal mode requires first adjusting the stopping mode to 'Hold' and the energy recovery mode to 'Standard' on the central control screen. When the driver presses the accelerator, the vehicle moves forward. Once the accelerator is released, the vehicle brakes and decelerates through energy recovery. Here is additional information: Tesla: Tesla's single-pedal mode does not mean the vehicle has only one pedal. It still has both an accelerator and a brake pedal. However, it can be set to single-pedal driving mode via the central control screen. Once the single-pedal mode is activated, the vehicle accelerates more quickly. If the accelerator is released during driving, the car immediately slows down.
As a Tesla owner for several years, I find the one-pedal driving mode incredibly convenient. Normally, just one pedal handles both acceleration and deceleration—letting off the throttle automatically slows the car down, which significantly reduces operations, especially in traffic jams. But the brake pedal hasn’t disappeared; it’s still there, tucked away at the lower left. In emergencies, like if the car ahead suddenly brakes or a pedestrian darts out, I must immediately press the brake pedal to stop quickly. The one-pedal mode relies on regenerative braking to slow down and recover energy, but it’s not as powerful—traditional brakes are still needed for a full stop. I recommend practicing to adapt to this mode. It’s truly hassle-free for city driving, but your right foot should instinctively stay ready to switch to the left-side brake. Safety comes first—don’t assume one-pedal mode solves all deceleration needs. After all, the brakes are the last line of defense, especially in hydroplaning or slippery conditions where regenerative braking loses effectiveness.
The essence of Tesla's one-pedal driving mode lies in its regenerative braking system: when you lift off the accelerator pedal, the electric motor operates in reverse, converting kinetic energy back into electricity stored in the battery while simultaneously decelerating the vehicle. It feels intuitive in practice—most routine deceleration can be achieved without touching the brake pedal, significantly reducing driver fatigue. The brake pedal remains on standby for situations demanding stronger braking force, such as emergency stops or steep descents. Having experienced rear-wheel slippage multiple times after rainfall, I learned that one-pedal deceleration isn't sufficiently rapid—immediate transition to the brake pedal becomes imperative. While this design enhances efficiency, newcomers often misinterpret it as eliminating the need for brakes altogether. Remember: emergency stops rely on mechanical braking systems—regenerative braking has limitations, particularly at low speeds where it cannot bring the vehicle to a complete halt. Cultivate the habit of keeping your right foot ready to transition between both pedals seamlessly.
