The throttle valve controls the air supply to the engine. It is used by gasoline engines but also by some modern diesel engines. The throttle valve is located in the intake system and is mechanically or electronically connected to the gas pedal.

When the gas pedal is pressed, the throttle valve opens. In the case of a mechanical control system, the damper reacts immediately. In contrast, the electronic control is the responsibility of the ECU (Engine Control Unit), which controls the throttle valve based on the position of the gas pedal.