How to control the speed at 2 kilometers per hour?
4 Answers
When driving on the highway, whether it's a manual or automatic transmission, the most frequently used control is the accelerator. If you feel the speed is too fast, slightly lift the accelerator. If releasing the accelerator still doesn't maintain a safe distance, you must apply the brakes. It's best to use intermittent braking, or press the brake for a few seconds, release, and then repeat. If you notice an uphill ahead, press the accelerator a bit deeper. Conversely, if you see a downhill ahead, press the accelerator more lightly.
When I first started learning to drive, I often had to reduce the speed to 2 kilometers per hour while practicing reverse parking in the parking lot. It felt like a turtle crawling, but it was quite practical. I found the key was throttle control—no sudden presses, just gently tapping the accelerator pedal with the tip of my foot to keep the engine at idle, allowing the car to move slowly. On flat surfaces, the car could even coast at idle without pressing the accelerator. But on slopes, extra caution was needed—less throttle downhill and a slight touch uphill. This technique was most useful when reversing, especially in tight parking spots, helping avoid bumps with cars in front or behind. I’d remind beginners not to forget to check the rearview mirror and backup camera, and to practice in an empty lot first to get familiar with their car’s idle behavior. On rainy days, the slippery surface makes it trickier, so keeping a foot on the brake as a precaution is wise in case the car unexpectedly speeds up. Once mastered, handling ultra-low speeds becomes effortless—safe and worry-free.
Having driven manual transmission cars for over 20 years, I'm quite familiar with low-speed control. For instance, at a turtle-like speed of 2 km/h, the key lies in the coordination between the clutch and throttle. I keep the clutch at the semi-engaged position, pressing it halfway down while gently applying a bit of throttle, maintaining the engine speed around 1000 RPM. This allows the car to move forward slowly, almost like gliding. Be careful not to fully release the clutch, as it may stall the engine; also, avoid pressing the throttle too deeply, which could cause sudden acceleration. This technique is particularly useful in narrow garage passages or during traffic jams, helping maintain steady movement. I also recommend checking the clutch plate for wear, as older cars might need earlier maintenance. With more practice, you can even combine it with slight brake adjustments, such as when starting on a steep slope—hold the clutch and throttle steady while lightly tapping the brake. Remember to regularly maintain the transmission system to avoid breakdowns midway.
Maintaining a speed of 2 km/h may seem trivial, but safety must never be compromised. I recommend practicing in a safe environment first, such as an open area, by gently tapping the accelerator to let the car idle forward. The key is to stay focused and constantly observe your surroundings, slowing down even more in areas with many pedestrians or children to avoid accidents. In practice, I keep my right foot hovering between the accelerator and brake, ready to switch to braking at the slightest sign of acceleration. Smoothness is crucial—avoid sudden acceleration to prevent rear-end collisions. Also, remind yourself that at such low speeds, the engine may accumulate carbon deposits, so it's good to take it on the highway afterward to clear them out. Remember, safety always comes first—it's far more important than saving time.
