Configurable Accelerator Pedal

A multi-stage vehicle pedal accelerator assembly, comprising:

• an accelerator pedal;
• and
• a return force assembly, comprising:
• a positioning mechanism, wherein an accelerator linkage arm couples said accelerator pedal to said positioning mechanism, wherein said positioning mechanism is positionable within a range of positions between a minimum pedal loading position that provides minimal accelerator pedal resistance to a maximum pedal loading position that provides maximal accelerator pedal resistance;
• a driver coupled to said positioning mechanism, wherein said driver is configured to receive a plurality of control signals and to move said positioning mechanism to a corresponding position within said range of positions in response to each of said plurality of control signals;
• a load controller coupled to said driver, said load controller configured to transmit said plurality of control signals to said driver;
• a spring;
• and
• a spring compression member coupled to said accelerator linkage arm, wherein said spring applies a nominal return force on said accelerator linkage arm.