China Puts Restrictions on One-Pedal Driving in Electric Vehicles: What It Means for the Market and Consumers

China recently announced a set of new regulations directly affecting braking systems in electric vehicles (EVs), specifically targeting the popular one-pedal driving feature that heavily relies on regenerative braking technology. This feature, favored by many EV drivers, allows controlling acceleration and deceleration using only the accelerator pedal. However, starting from 2027, this feature will no longer be allowed as a default setting.

What is One-Pedal Driving?

One-pedal driving means that the driver can accelerate by pressing the accelerator pedal, and when releasing it, the car automatically slows down using regenerative braking until it comes to a complete stop without the need to press the brake pedal. This technology improves energy efficiency and reduces brake wear, making it a preferred choice for many drivers.

Why Is China Restricting This Feature?

Despite its benefits, Chinese authorities expressed concerns that heavy reliance on regenerative braking might delay drivers’ reaction to pressing the brake pedal in emergencies, potentially causing serious accidents. Studies showed that some drivers become overly dependent on deceleration by releasing the accelerator, causing delayed use of the actual brakes when needed.

Therefore, the new national standard GB 21670-2025 prohibits EVs from being programmed by default to use one-pedal driving that brings the vehicle to a full stop upon releasing the accelerator. However, this does not ban the feature entirely; drivers can manually activate it each time they start driving.

When Will These Rules Take Effect?

• New braking system regulations will apply to vehicles receiving type approval in China starting January 1, 2026.
  
  

• The ban on one-pedal driving as a default setting will be mandatory for all new vehicles starting January 1, 2027.
  
  

Other Important Changes in Braking Systems

• Brake Lights Activation During Regenerative Braking:
  Brake lights must automatically turn on when regenerative braking deceleration exceeds 1.3 m/s² to alert drivers behind, who might not realize the car ahead is slowing down due to the absence of traditional brake signals.
  
  

• Mandatory Anti-lock Braking System (ABS):
  Starting in 2026, all new EVs in China must be equipped with ABS, an important safety feature that helps maintain vehicle stability during emergency braking and prevents wheel lock-up.

Market and Manufacturer Reactions

These rules come after several incidents linked to one-pedal driving, especially in China, where companies like Tesla had to update their software to reduce risks. The changes sparked debate among users; some view them as necessary safety measures, while others feel they reduce driving comfort and limit EV advantages.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

• New EVs will not be allowed to have one-pedal driving enabled by default, requiring use of the brake pedal for full stops.
  
  

• Drivers can manually enable one-pedal driving, but must do so each time the vehicle is started.
  
  

• Driving safety will improve thanks to better brake light signaling and mandatory ABS.
  
  

How Will These Rules Affect the Future of EVs?

These regulations reflect a global trend to enhance EV safety while preserving their environmental and economic benefits. Manufacturers are expected to develop smarter, more responsive braking systems that improve safety without compromising driving experience.

China, the world’s largest EV market, is imposing strict new rules on one-pedal driving to enhance safety and reduce accidents caused by delayed braking. These measures will be phased in between 2026 and 2027 and include new requirements for brake light activation and ABS installation. While some drivers may find these rules limit driving convenience, they demonstrate authorities’ commitment to protecting users and building public trust in electric vehicles.