Porsche's Approach to EV Sound and Shift Simulation: Why They Aren't Following Hyundai's Lead in Electric Vehicle Programming

Porsche's Approach to EV Sound and Shift Simulation: Why They Aren't Following Hyundai's Lead in Electric Vehicle Programming
Image credit: Porsche Newsroom 

Porsche is unlikely to adopt the strategy of programming simulated shift points in its electric vehicles (EVs), a move that differs from Hyundai's approach. 

Lars Kern, a Porsche development driver, expressed that the automaker doesn't see the need to introduce such features in their EVs. Kern emphasized that Porsche's philosophy is not to compromise the driving experience by adding unnecessary elements.

Simulating Combustion Engine Features in EVs

While Porsche is aware of what other automakers, like Hyundai, are doing to simulate traditional gas-powered driving characteristics in EVs, they remain unconvinced of its value. 

For instance, Hyundai has incorporated simulated shift points, power cutoffs, and sound generators in the Ioniq 5 N to mimic the experience of driving a gas-powered car. 

However, Kern noted that these features might detract from the core objective of driving as fast as possible, which is a key priority for Porsche.

Porsche's Exploration of Simulated Technology

Porsche did explore the concept of simulating shift points and gear changes in EVs, but the idea never progressed beyond the conceptual stage. According to Kern, no prototype was ever developed, as Porsche decided not to pursue this direction further. 

The automaker still offers combustion engines for drivers who prefer that traditional driving experience, highlighting their commitment to maintaining the authenticity of their vehicles.

Hyundai's Focus on Driving Experience Over Lap Times

Hyundai's approach to EVs, particularly with the 2025 Ioniq 5 N, has been to create a driving experience that closely resembles that of a gas-powered car. 

The automaker introduced programmed shift points, power curves, and sound generators to enhance the fun factor and provide a better sense of speed on the track. However, these features, while enjoyable, do not necessarily improve lap times and may even slow the car down due to the distinct power curves applied for the simulated gearing.

Porsche's Future in the Electric Era

Porsche's reluctance to integrate simulated combustion engine features into their EVs stems from their focus on delivering a pure and uncompromised driving experience. As Kern stated, Porsche does not aim to make electric cars feel like their combustion counterparts. 

The Porsche Taycan, which has been on the market since 2020, embodies this philosophy, and with the upcoming launch of the Macan EV and the electric successors to the 718 Boxster and Cayman, Porsche continues to bring its sports car heritage into the electric era without diluting the essence of their vehicles.