Future electric Porsche sports cars could be fitted with simulated gearboxes because they can boost the “fun” of driving an EV, the boss of the firm’s GT division has told Autocar.
Andreas Preuninger said that when he drove the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, the level of realism provided by its simulated ’box was “very impressive” and his “biggest takeaway” of driving the 601bhp EV.
Hyundai’s system uses a ‘fake’ rev range to deliver power in a similar way to a traditional combustion car and paddles behind the steering wheel can be used to change gears. Sounds that simulate a revving engine are also pumped into the cabin.
Preuninger said the Hyundai’s unique engine simulation and the feeling it provides in tandem with the car’s natural-feeling controls were key to a performance EV’s success.
He hinted that such a system combined with Porsche steering and brake pedal feel could create a highly engaging car.
“We [Porsche GT] are automotive nerds and discussions about how to improve driving engagement are always happening,” he said. “Discussions are often intense as everybody’s got an opinion, but that only provokes innovation.”
Preuninger’s comments contrast with those recently made to Autocar by Lamborghini boss Stephan Winkelmann, who suggested his brand wasn’t interested in developing a similar system. He said: “You don’t want something which is not real. At least, that is my perception.”
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Yuck. Utterly appalling. Complete and total fakery. Not merely from Porsche, which would be bad enough, but from its GT division. Fake is fake, no matter how good a fake it is.
Heat engines work best at constant speed. To overcome this inherent drawback, they are fitted with gearboxes. Electric motors can run at any speed and don't need gearboxes. I can think of nothing more ridiculous than pretending that an electric motor needs a gearbox.
EV's need a switch so the motor runs backwards for the car to reverse, and as you rightly say a gearbox is not otherwise needed.