Electric vehicles may lack the exhilaration of rapid 0-60 mph accelerations that are commonly associated with internal combustion engine cars. Many electric cars perform similarly to traditional ones in terms of shifting, engine revving, and backfiring. Enthusiasts often find the overall experience lacking, and this aspect is often overlooked by electric car manufacturers. While some incorporate simulated engine noises, Hyundai has devised more sophisticated plans.
The automaker has showcased test footage of the high-performance “N” variant of the new Ioniq 6 sedan, featuring synthetic exhaust notes both inside and outside the vehicle. Demonstrating the car, referred to as the RN22E, on a chassis dynamometer shifting gears with paddles resembles the operation seen in many performance vehicles equipped with dual-clutch transmissions that Hyundai currently produces. Despite being a dual-motor electric vehicle without a physical transmission like a traditional gasoline-powered car, the software is utilized to replicate the feeling of changing gears. The intriguing part occurs around 5:10 in the video below.
According to statements obtained from Car Expert, this functionality will be featured in the upcoming Ioniq 5 N crossover, with the option to deactivate it easily. Releasing both paddles reverts the car to function like a standard electric vehicle in scenarios such as slow-moving traffic where frequent gear changes can become cumbersome. As for the exhaust sound modification, it can be customized to numerous options, with Hyundai even allowing drivers to create their own unique sounds.
Do these features succeed in generating enthusiasm among drivers for electric vehicles? Several car manufacturers are convinced they do. Dodge’s upcoming electric muscle car will have both an exhaust tone and gear changes similar to those in Hyundai vehicles, though it remains uncertain whether they are simulated or physical. Lexus is also exploring a comparable concept in their new electric vehicles. The majority also integrate simulated exhaust tones— even the impressively fast Hummer EV produces sounds to inject an element of drama.
Whether this is an idiosyncrasy of early electric vehicles or a lasting trend remains to be determined. Currently, the Porsche Taycan is the only electric vehicle equipped with a physical transmission. Its two-speed automatic gearbox is specifically designed to maintain the motor within an efficient operational range, potentially paving the way for similar innovations in the future.
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