A user input for controlling acceleration of a vehicle. The user input has
a movable member capable of deflection by a user such that a degree of
deflection corresponds to a specified velocity commanded by the user. The
correspondence between the degree of deflection and the specified
velocity may include a plurality of zones, each zone characterized by a
distinct sensitivity that may be capable of customization for a specific
user. The user input may also include a neutral position of the movable
member, wherein a substantially sudden motion of the movable member to
the neutral position causes a slewed slowing of the vehicle.