On most car models, the accelerator pedal is often designed to be recessed deeper and lower than the brake and clutch pedals. According to automotive engineer David, the Workshop Manager, this design is not arbitrary. Based on technical documentation from car manufacturers and practical use, he presents three main reasons for this:
Firstly, it relates to the distinct construction and operational principles of the accelerator compared to the brake and clutch (in manual transmission cars). The accelerator pedal controls the amount of fuel pumped into the engine, determining whether the vehicle accelerates quickly or slowly.
The accelerator pedal is finely tuned and usually equipped with sensors, making its response very sensitive, resulting in a much shorter stroke than the brake or clutch pedals. A small amount of pressure on the accelerator pedal, especially in vehicles with larger engine capacities, can be distinctly felt.
On the other hand, the brake pedal operates based on a hydraulic system, providing a longer stroke. Therefore, the brake pedal needs more space than the accelerator pedal, and positioning the brake pedal higher than the accelerator pedal is an optimal solution.
The second reason concerns safety in vehicle control. The low and recessed design requires a different foot position and slight ankle extension to press the accelerator. This differs from the normal foot position on the brake pedal.
This design helps the driver easily distinguish between the accelerator and brake pedals without needing to look, as the sensations while placing the foot on the two pedals are different, minimizing the risk of accidentally pressing the accelerator.
The third reason David highlights is for emergency avoidance. Because the two pedals are designed closely together and controlled by the right foot, it’s not uncommon to mistakenly press both pedals at once.
In cases where the driver panics and steps on both pedals simultaneously, the higher positioned brake pedal will be activated first. As a result, the vehicle tends to slow down instead of accelerating rapidly.
David emphasizes that every car design aims for comfort and convenience in operation and use. However, to ensure safety on the road, drivers, more than anyone else, must equip themselves with knowledge and skills to handle situations, especially mastering the operation of the accelerator and brake pedals to avoid confusion in emergency situations.
