Is Porsche targeting Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N with its virtual shift simulation?
Porsche has directly mentioned this
For car enthusiasts, the joy of driving often comes from the tactile experience of shifting gears and hearing the accompanying sounds. However, as electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent, this traditional driving pleasure is being lost.
To address this, Hyundai has introduced the N-Shift function in its high-performance EV, the Ioniq 5 N. This feature provides a virtual gear-shifting experience, allowing drivers to simulate the sensation of shifting gears in an electric car, even though it lacks a physical gear shift. The N-Shift function aims to preserve the driving excitement for those who miss the thrill of traditional gear changes.
The virtual shifting system
reduces vehicle performance
Porsche development driver Lars Kern recently spoke to Australian media about Porsche’s approach to EV technology, particularly about its competitors. Kern emphasized that while Porsche keeps an eye on industry trends, the company does not see the need to adopt artificial transmission systems, such as the one used in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
Kern stated, “We look into what the competition does, but our perspective on this is always: Why should we make something worse?” He elaborated, “The electric engine is better than an ICE, so we figured there’s no reason to simulate what has been in the past.”
He further explained that after evaluating the idea, they concluded that mimicking the feel of an internal combustion engine (ICE) in EVs isn’t necessary. Kern emphasized that their goal is to harness the advantages of electric power rather than replicating past technologies. He also noted that since they still manufacture internal combustion engines, there is no need to artificially recreate that experience in their EVs, stating that it simply doesn’t make sense to them.
Hyundai’s development goal prioritizes fun over speed
Lars Kern argues that incorporating virtual shifting into EVs would compromise electric motors’ instantaneous performance advantages. He emphasizes that Porsche views electric motors as superior to ICE and believes that focusing on future technologies rather than imitating past ones is crucial.
On the other hand, Hyundai stated that the primary goal of the Ioniq 5 N is to deliver an enjoyable driving experience rather than achieving the fastest possible speeds. Hyundai has also noted that disabling the virtual shifting function could result in quicker lap times.
After evaluating the concept, Kern concluded that Porsche decided against developing a virtual shifting function. According to him, Porsche concluded that the technology did not align with their focus on enhancing the inherent advantages of electric motors.
Porsche remains committed to electrifying its lineup, with plans to phase out combustion engine models such as the Macan, Boxster, and Cayman in favor of EVles. The upcoming Cayenne will also be an all-electric model. However, the company has abandoned its earlier goal of increasing EV sales to over 80 percent by 2022.
Porsche believes investing in performance upgrades is more valuable than focusing on features like virtual shifting, which simulates the experience of traditional gear shifting. The company is prioritizing enhancements that improve its vehicles’ overall driving experience and performance. Additionally, manufacturers currently developing high-performance EVs are working on technologies that allow for motor shifting, indicating that advancements in EV technology will continue.
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