The Foot Controls
The Accelerator
The accelerator pedal is operated with the right foot and is located on the far right of the three pedals.
The accelerator controls the speed of the engine or electric motor.
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Pressing the pedal increases engine speed and power output.
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Releasing the pedal reduces power and slows the engine.
Using the correct amount of pressure takes practice — too little may cause the engine to stall, while too much can cause harsh acceleration, wasted fuel, and unnecessary noise. Smooth, progressive use is best.
Fuel Types
Petrol Engines
Modern petrol vehicles use electronic fuel injection to optimize performance and efficiency.
Older cars used carburettors, which mixed air and fuel mechanically before sending it into the engine.
Diesel Engines
Diesel vehicles use a high-pressure fuel injection system that delivers fuel directly into the cylinders — known as a compression-ignition engine.
Both Engine Types
In both systems, the more you press the accelerator, the more fuel is supplied to the engine, producing greater power and higher speed.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Most electric vehicles use regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle when you lift your foot off the accelerator.
This system converts kinetic energy into stored electrical energy, improving efficiency.
Many EVs allow the driver to adjust how strongly the vehicle slows when the accelerator is released.
The Footbrake
The footbrake is located in the middle of the three pedals and is also operated by the right foot.
Your right foot should move smoothly between the accelerator and the brake — never use both simultaneously.
The footbrake slows down or stops the vehicle. The harder you press, the greater the braking force — but braking should always be smooth and controlled, not sudden.
Press the brake pedal with the ball of your foot, applying enough pressure to slow the wheels without locking them.
Braking smoothly takes practice and helps maintain control.
Start with light pressure, then gradually increase it as the brakes engage. Just before the vehicle stops, ease off slightly to prevent jerking.
This method — known as progressive braking — provides maximum control, comfort, and safety.
Braking Systems
Modern vehicles are fitted with dual-circuit braking systems.
If one part of the system fails (which is rare), the other circuit still provides limited braking.
In this situation, you may need to press the pedal harder than usual.
Many cars are equipped with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), which prevents wheel lock-up during heavy braking. It works automatically, allowing you to steer while braking.
ABS is a driver aid, not a substitute for good technique — it won’t necessarily shorten your stopping distance.
You must still plan ahead, anticipate hazards, and brake progressively.
The Clutch
The clutch pedal is on the far left and is operated by the left foot.
It connects and disconnects the engine from the gearbox, allowing smooth gear changes and controlled starts.
The clutch consists of two plates:
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One attached to the engine, rotating continuously while the engine runs.
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The other connected to the gearbox, which rotates only when pressed against the first plate by springs.
Pressing the clutch pedal separates the plates, breaking the connection between the engine and wheels.
Releasing the pedal allows them to reconnect, transmitting power to the wheels.
In neutral, even though the plates touch, the wheels don’t turn because no gear is engaged.
The Biting Point
The biting point is when the two clutch plates begin to make contact and the engine starts to take the load.
You can identify it when the engine sound changes slightly and the vehicle begins to move.
The exact biting point differs between vehicles and can change as the clutch wears. Learning to judge it precisely takes practice.
Clutch Control
Good clutch control means engaging the plates smoothly and gradually.
If released too quickly, the engine can stall or the car may lurch forward.
Mastering clutch control is essential for:
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Moving off smoothly
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Changing gears efficiently
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Maintaining control in slow traffic or on hills
As with all driving skills, smooth clutch operation improves with practice and experience.