The actual PCC controller is under the car. The motorman operates a remote control device such as foot pedals that operate the actual controller. A few PCC-type cars such as San Francisco Magic Carpet cars and Chicago PCC cars were equipped with hand controls.

The remote control device merely instructs the controller what rate of acceleration or deceleration to use. It does not apply power or brakes. The brake pedal does apply the track brakes in case of emergency and applies the air brakes in pre-war air-electric PCC cars.

On advantage of foot controls is that the motorman's hands are free for making change and issuing transfers while the car is in motion. LRV technology for the most part came from overseas where the motorman is not involved in fare collection.