FYI: Porsche has confirmed it will not be implementing simulated engine noises or multi-gear transmissions in its electric vehicles (EVs), distinguishing itself from some competitors who are adopting such technologies.
### Porsche EVs to Skip Engine Noise Simulations and Faux Gear Shifts
Porsche has decided against incorporating simulated gas-powered car sounds or multi-gear transmission sensations in its electric vehicles, taking a different path from some of its automotive rivals. Unlike Hyundai, which uses this tech in the Ioniq 5 N, Porsche deems it unnecessary and even detrimental to their performance-focused philosophy.
### Porsche’s Stand on Simulated Driving Experiences
In a conversation with Drive, Lars Kern, a Porsche test driver, revealed that while the company examined the possibility of integrating such features in their EVs, they ultimately decided against it. Kern stated, “We look into what the competition does, but our perspective on this is always why should we make something worse?”
Porsche believes that mimicking traditional gas-powered car dynamics contradicts their goal of achieving optimal performance. Kern further elaborated, “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.”
### Competitors’ Approach to EV Simulations
Hyundai’s N e-shift mimics an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission by intermittently cutting power and torque delivery, creating the impulse of gear shifts found in traditional gasoline vehicles. Toyota has also ventured into this territory, developing a system that simulates a manual transmission complete with a clutch for future EVs under its own brand and Lexus.
Other manufacturers, like Dodge, are introducing synthetic engine noises for their EVs, such as in the Charger Daytona. BMW M chief Frank van Meel even suggested that staged feedback mechanisms, like sound simulations, add a level of driving precision, especially useful on the racetrack where speed gauging can be challenging in near-silent, single-gear EVs.
### What’s Next in Porsche’s EV Lineup?
Porsche’s current electric offerings include the Taycan and a revamped Macan. Looking ahead, the automaker is gearing up to launch an electric 718 sports car, followed by an electric Cayenne and a novel SUV positioned above the Cayenne. These releases align with Porsche’s commitment to authenticity in driving experiences, even as they transition further into the EV market.
### Conclusion
Porsche’s stance on avoiding simulated driving sensations in their EVs underscores their dedication to true performance and authenticity. While competitors explore various feedback mechanisms to emulate traditional driving experiences, Porsche remains focused on offering genuine, uncompromised electric driving thrills.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
