China moves to curb one-pedal driving in EVs

TDT | Manama

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In a major regulatory shift affecting electric vehicles, China has announced new national standards that will limit the use of one-pedal driving — a popular regenerative braking mode used by many EV drivers.

Under the newly introduced GB 21670-2025 regulation, EVs sold in China from January 1, 2027, will no longer be allowed to default to a mode where simply lifting off the accelerator can bring the vehicle to a complete stop. This change directly targets one-pedal driving, a feature that allows cars to decelerate sharply using regenerative braking, often eliminating the need to touch the brake pedal in regular conditions.

Regulators say the move is motivated by safety concerns. According to a report in a Chinese state newspaper, research indicates that drivers relying too heavily on regenerative braking may develop slower reaction times when sudden or full braking is required, such as in emergencies. The concern is that such habits could increase the risk of collisions when regen-braking alone is insufficient.

While the one-pedal rule takes effect in 2027, other related changes will be implemented sooner: From 2026, Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) will be mandatory in all new electric vehicles.

Also from 2026, brake lights must activate whenever regenerative braking decelerates a vehicle faster than 1.3 m/s². This addresses a common issue where drivers following behind EVs may not realize the vehicle is slowing sharply, as no brake lights illuminate during regenerative deceleration.

One-pedal driving is a feature in many electric vehicles (EVs) that allows the driver to control both acceleration and deceleration using only the accelerator pedal.

How it works:

When you press the accelerator, the car moves forward like usual. But when you lift your foot off the pedal, the car doesn’t just coast — it slows down aggressively using regenerative braking, a process that converts kinetic energy back into stored battery power.

What is regenerative braking?

Regenerative braking is a system where the electric motor runs in reverse during deceleration, acting like a generator. Instead of using traditional brake pads alone, this slows the vehicle down and recovers energy that would otherwise be lost as heat.

Benefits of one-pedal driving:

Energy efficiency: More energy is sent back to the battery. Less brake wear: Since the friction brakes are used less often. Ease in traffic: Great for stop-and-go driving — the car can come to a near or full stop just by lifting off the pedal. Smoother control: Some drivers find it more intuitive

Limitations and concerns:

It can take time to get used to, especially for drivers switching from petrol/diesel vehicles. In emergencies, drivers must still use the brake pedal — and studies (like the one behind China’s regulation) suggest some may hesitate. It’s not ideal for highway cruising or conditions needing very light deceleration.

Common in:

Nissan Leaf (with e-Pedal) Tesla (adjustable regenerative braking) Chevrolet Bolt Hyundai Ioniq 5 BMW i3