Why does the Sylphy use a foot brake?
3 Answers
The principle of the Sylphy's foot brake is the same as that of a handbrake, with high stability and no malfunctions. Here are the specific details about foot brakes and handbrakes: 1. Usage scenarios: The foot brake is used while the vehicle is in motion; the handbrake is used after the vehicle has stopped. 2. Functions: The foot brake stops or slows down a moving vehicle; the handbrake prevents the vehicle from moving after parking. 3. Classification: Foot brakes are divided into disc and drum-disc types; handbrakes are divided into electronic and mechanical types. 4. Additional information: The foot brake is the vehicle's main brake, where mechanical force from the brake pedal is transmitted hydraulically, and the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid is transferred through pipelines to the brake disc actuator. The handbrake is an auxiliary brake, with a steel cable connected to the rear brake shoes to apply braking force to the vehicle.
I've been driving the Sylphy for quite a while and find the foot brake design quite reasonable. As a family sedan, Nissan has considered space utilization in its design. The foot brake is positioned on the left side, freeing up the center console from a handbrake lever, which creates space for cups or miscellaneous items, making the interior look cleaner. For commuters like me who park dozens of times a day in the city, the foot brake can be engaged with just a step, making it easier than pulling a handbrake, especially at intersections with frequent traffic lights. The Sylphy is positioned as an economical and practical car, and the foot brake aligns better with modern driving habits, reducing the risk of misoperation and enhancing convenience and safety. Other cars in a similar price range, like the Corolla, sometimes still use a handbrake, making the Sylphy's design more user-friendly and considerate. For family use, where you often take kids out, the foot brake is simple to operate, eliminating worries about children tampering with it, resulting in a smoother overall driving experience.
The foot brake option in the Sylphy reflects Nissan's overall design philosophy. As a car enthusiast, I find this feature space-saving and practical. The Sylphy's chassis layout emphasizes efficiency, with the foot brake system's mechanical structure being more compact, reducing internal complexity and freeing up space for the passenger area. This design is common in Japanese cars like some Toyota models, but the Sylphy has popularized it widely because it targets urban users, making frequent stop-and-start operations more convenient. Compared to traditional handbrakes, foot brakes offer higher durability, with pedals being more resistant to wear and tear and providing faster braking response. On inclined roads, it securely locks the wheels to prevent rolling. Nissan likely chose this option for cost control or to enhance reliability, ensuring peace of mind for owners. In user feedback for the Sylphy, the foot brake generally receives positive reviews for improving the smoothness of daily driving.
