How to Perform Emergency Braking with Tesla's One-Pedal Driving?

[AaliyahAnn]

Tesla's method for emergency braking with one-pedal driving is: by pressing the brake pedal. The one-pedal system does not mean the vehicle actually has only one pedal, nor does it imply the absence of braking functionality. While the one-pedal mode is sufficient for most acceleration and deceleration operations during normal driving, drivers still need to press the brake pedal when emergency braking is required in urgent situations. The one-pedal mode refers to an acceleration pedal that can control both acceleration and deceleration based on the driver's input pressure. Taking the 2021 Model 3 Standard Range Plus as an example: This vehicle is manufactured by Tesla China, classified as a mid-size car, and equipped with a single-speed electric transmission. The car measures 4694mm in length, 1850mm in width, and 1443mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2875mm, and features a 4-door, 5-seat sedan body type.

[BenjaminLee]

I've been using Tesla's one-pedal driving mode for several years now, and it's incredibly convenient. During normal driving, simply lifting off the accelerator pedal makes the car decelerate quickly, almost like gentle braking. However, in emergencies—like when a car suddenly brakes hard in front of you—you must immediately press the brake pedal. Don’t rely solely on deceleration from lifting the accelerator, as the regenerative braking might not be strong enough in critical moments, potentially delaying your reaction. I recommend all Tesla owners practice emergency braking—whether by quickly switching pedals or directly hitting the brakes. Make it a habit to maintain a safe following distance and stay alert while driving. Safety comes first in unexpected situations. Some drivers mistakenly believe one-pedal mode handles everything, which is a dangerous assumption—the brake pedal remains your ultimate safeguard. Also, remember to regularly check your braking system to prevent wear from affecting performance. In short, enjoy your drive, but always prioritize safety.

[MacKayden]

When driving my Tesla with family, I pay special attention to safe operation. The one-pedal mode is very convenient for daily driving, with smooth deceleration when releasing the accelerator, and my family finds the ride comfortable. However, when it comes to emergency braking, never rely solely on the one-pedal mode. In situations requiring sudden stops, you must quickly press the brake pedal—that's the fundamental solution for emergencies. The regenerative braking of the one-pedal mode is not actual braking; its force is limited, especially in heavy rain or on slippery roads, where the response is slower. I often remind myself and other owners that the core of safe driving is anticipation—observing road conditions and maintaining a safe distance. In case of unexpected events, such as sudden stops by the car ahead, decisively pressing the brake pedal is the best approach. Here's a small tip: regularly maintain brake pads and tires to ensure the system functions properly. In short, driving a Tesla is fun, but safe braking should never be taken lightly.

[Elsie]

I think Tesla's one-pedal driving is pretty cool—it uses motor regeneration to slow down, so you don't have to constantly hit the brake pedal. But for a real emergency stop, you must immediately press the actual brake pedal because one-pedal mode only assists deceleration and lacks the force to fully stop the car. On highways, if an emergency arises, switching pedals must be quick and decisive. Don’t worry about instability—the braking system is designed to be highly responsive. Overall, one-pedal is a great feature, but the brake pedal remains the ace for sudden stops.