FYI: Porsche Chooses Authentic EV Experience Over Simulated Shifting
If you were looking forward to the possibility of simulated shifting in your next electric Porsche, prepare for some disappointing news. While Hyundai has integrated a fake shifting feature into its Ioniq 5 N, Porsche has decided to steer clear of this trend. Although it evaluated the idea, Porsche ultimately concluded that simulated shifting detracts from the electric vehicle (EV) experience.
Hyundai’s N e-Shift: A Brief Overview
Earlier this year, Hyundai introduced its N e-Shift feature to the Ioniq 5 N, aiming to mimic the feel of an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The single-speed electric drive unit that powers the Ioniq 5 doesn’t inherently require this, but the feature replicates the sensation of a combustion engine through the car’s speakers and regenerative braking. This simulated shifting is designed to reintroduce sensations that internal combustion engine (ICE) enthusiasts are familiar with, potentially enhancing the driving experience.
Porsche’s Perspective
Despite Hyundai’s approach, Porsche’s development driver Lars Kern recently stated in an interview with Australian media outlet Drive that the automaker sees no value in this gimmick. "We drove the Hyundai [Ioniq 5] N and looked into it. Obviously, there’s always people who think that’s a good idea," said Kern. "We came to the conclusion that that is not what we are looking for."
While some might find the feature engaging, Porsche argues that electric engines surpass ICE in terms of power delivery and overall performance. "Our perspective on this is always why should we make something worse? The electric engine is better than an ICE, so we figured there’s no reason to simulate what has been in the past," Kern added.
The Authentic EV Experience
Porsche’s decision rests on their commitment to the authentic experience of electric vehicles. "I don’t see the point of using it to make it feel like a combustion engine because it’s not," Kern continued. "We don’t want to fake the combustion engine because we still produce combustion engines, so we don’t see the point of doing it."
Industry Trends and Future Possibilities
This isn’t the first time Porsche has gone against industry trends. Recently, the automaker decided against incorporating tablet-sized screens on EV dashboards—a feature many competitors have embraced. However, Porsche’s stance may evolve over time. It’s possible that when Porsche eventually ceases to produce combustion engines, it might explore ways to evoke nostalgia for traditional driving experiences.
Conclusion
Porsche’s decision highlights its commitment to delivering an authentic electric driving experience, free from unnecessary gimmicks. While Hyundai’s simulated shifting can offer an intriguing experience for some, Porsche believes that the natural advantages of electric engines should be highlighted rather than masked. Time will tell if this perspective changes, but for now, Porsche enthusiasts can expect an unembellished electric experience.
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Authored by William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
