- Regenerative braking is one of the key features of EVs.
- A new national standard for passenger cars has just been introduced in China, and it has implications for EV drivers who prefer the one-pedal driving style.
Regenerative braking is one of the key features of EVs. There are different levels of regenerative braking. The one pedal mode, which is essentially the strongest level, is very popular with EV users.
The effect is so strong that you hardly need to touch the brake pedal to slow down. However, regulators in China don’t seem to be a fan of one-pedal driving.
A new national standard for passenger cars has just been introduced in China, and it has implications for EV drivers who prefer the one-pedal driving style.
Under the terms of GB 21670-2025, drivers must not be able to set their EVs to a default mode that can bring a car to a complete stop simply by lifting off the gas pedal.
The legislation is focused on improving safety, according to a report from a Chinese newspaper. Studies have shown that drivers can become so reliant on the regenerative braking effect delivered when lifting off that they develop a delayed reaction in applying the brake pedal in emergencies when more braking force is needed than the regen alone can provide.
While the law governing the one-pedal mode won’t come into effect until January 1, 2027, there are other changes announced to become compulsory a year earlier. From next year, new EVs brake lights must illuminate when deceleration caused by regen-braking exceeds 1.3 m/s².
This addresses a common concern among drivers following behind EVs, who might not realise a car is slowing significantly without conventional brake light cues. ABS will also become mandatory on new EVs in China starting in 2026.