AUSTIN, Texas – Numerous media reports and owner social-media posts report the latest Tesla software update will enable one-pedal driving, a capability facilitated by regenerative braking, even when it normally might not work.
Regenerative braking can occur in an electric or hybrid-electric vehicle when the driver removes his/her foot from the accelerator, turning the electric motor into a generator, thus sending energy to the batteries.
When an EV or hybrid has a fully charged battery or harsh-weather conditions exist, regenerative braking might not occur, thus a one-pedal system might not work.
Tesla, which has encouraged its owners to adopt a one-pedal-driving technique, has apparently developed a software fix to mitigate the conditions which might disable regenerative braking and render one-pedal driving impossible.
According to the notes accompanying Tesla software release 2022.16.0.3 for Model 3 and Model Y owners, “Your vehicle can now automatically apply regular brakes for consistent deceleration when regenerative braking is limited due to battery temperature or state of charge. To enable, tap Controls > Pedals & Steering > Apply Brakes When Regenerative Braking Is Limited.”
(According to other reports, “This change appears to be for non-LFP (lithium iron phosphate) cars only as LFP vehicles can utilize regenerative braking when at 100 percent.”
Some of the media reports indicate this software-update aspect is still in the testing phase and/or has not been disseminated to all Model 3 and Model Y owners (confirmed by a Model 3 owner).
Tesla does not respond to media inquiries, so further information is not available. The BRAKE Report will continue to report on this story as information becomes available.
