The invention relates to a vehicle electric drive system. There is a need for a brake responsive vehicle electric drive system. A vehicle electric drive system includes an internal combustion engine, an electric motor/generator driven by the engine, and drive wheels driven by a traction motor/generator. The motor/generators are controlled by a control system which receives signals from an operator speed control member, wheel speed sensors, and a pair of brake pedal position sensors, each connected to a corresponding left or right brake pedal. In response to operation of the brake pedals, the controller coordinates operation of the electric drive system with operation of the brake pedals.