Can I have a left foot accelerator fitted into my vehicle?

A left foot accelerator is an adaptation that allows a driver to operate an accelerator pedal on the left of the brake pedal with their left foot.

There are two main reasons why someone may ask us if they can have a left foot accelerator fitted into their vehicle:

1. They are unsure if a left foot accelerator can physically be installed into their model of vehicle

2. They are unsure if a left foot accelerator is a suitable adaptation for them to use

Is my vehicle suitable for a left foot accelerator?

Left foot accelerators can only be fitted into automatic vehicles as the left-hand side accelerator pedal sits in the space where a clutch pedal would sit in a manual vehicle, to the left of the brake pedal, and is operated by the left foot.

When writing this article, we already had left foot accelerator designs available for installation for over 800 different UK models and we continue to add designs for new models regularly.

A left foot accelerator is possible in most cars and vans but there are some limitations. As an additional pedal is being added to the left of the brake pedal, it is important that there is enough space in the footwell for the additional pedal. It is rare but some very small cars, such as the early model Smart ForTwo and Fiat 500e, do not have the required space within the footwell to fit a left-sided pedal safely.

We have also had requests for left foot accelerators in various type of work vehicles such as HGVs which are not always possible. To install the left foot accelerator, we have to connect the left-hand side pedal to the right-hand side pedal. Often in larger vehicles such as HGVs, the steering column or plastic trim divides the footwell differently to a standard car. This additional column can prevent a left foot accelerator from being fitted in some instances. Depending on the uniqueness of these types of vehicles, we may be able to advise on the possibility of design from clear photographs or we may need to physically see the vehicle.

We manufacturer two different styles of left foot accelerator. The type of original OEM accelerator pedal within the vehicle would determine whether a twin-folding or electric style of left foot accelerator would be required.

To check if a left foot accelerator is available for your model of vehicle, or to check if a design is possible, please contact us with the vehicle details.

Is a left foot accelerator suitable for me to use to drive?

Everyone has individual requirements and therefore to give a definitive yes or no to the above question in an article is near impossible. We can however provide guidance on things to consider before choosing a left foot accelerator. The most important thing before driving in any way is to ensure that you are safe and comfortable.

If you are completely new to driving and have never driven a vehicle in another way, learning to drive with a left foot accelerator comes with less risks than transitioning to a left foot accelerator from conventional driving. It is still worth considering the adaptation in detail and ensuring you seek professional training.

Drivers transitioning from driving a vehicle conventionally, particularly those accustomed to operating a clutch pedal with their left foot need to ensure they are safe to change to driving with a left foot accelerator. Operating a vehicle with a left foot accelerator poses significant risks for those new to this configuration. Consideration must be taken into transitioning from a using your left foot on a clutch pedal to using your left foot on an accelerator pedal.

Key risks include: Confusion between pedals as your left foot may instinctively try to press the clutch pedal, leading to unintentional acceleration or braking.

Delayed reaction times due to adapting to a new pedal layout.

Difference in pedal sensitivity as the finesse required for accelerating differs from the operation of a clutch pedal.

We would advise that before driving with a left foot accelerator everyone seeks professional training and practice in a controlled environment.

Where possible, transitioning to an alternative adaptation, such as a hand control, is advised as the driver is completely changing their driving style and therefore there is less risk in confusion between the pedals. It would still be recommended to seek professional training and for practice to take place in a controlled environment.

An assessment centre can provide advice and assessment on the best way for you to drive and they may also recommend further training to go alongside beginning to drive with adaptations.

Further product and safety information can be found on our left foot accelerator product page.