Lovers of thrills while driving have long reproached the electric car for its lack of character. Engine vibrations, exhaust roars, gear passages … so many elements that shape the traditional driving experience and which, for some, are irreplaceable. Faced with this observation, several manufacturers have decided to take up a daring challenge: artificially recreate these sensations in their electric models. A trend that seduces well beyond purists and which could speed up the energy transition.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: Pioneer of the genre
The Korean manufacturer has created the surprise by equipping its electric sportswoman with a complete thermal emulation system. The IONIQ 5 N offers a stunning sensory experience thanks to its n e-SHIFT system which simulates the reports of a double clutch transmission at 8-speed. The transitions are accompanied with a slight blow in the back and a momentary reduction in the torque – exactly as in a thermal car.
The sound system N Active Sound+ diffuses a virtual engine sound in the cabin and outside. The illusion is almost perfect, with even a “breaker” which cuts acceleration at high virtual diet. This sports sedan developing 650 CH A MODE N LUKE BOOST Offers impressive performance (0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds) while retaining the sensations of a traditional sportswoman.
A trend that is generalized in manufacturers
Hyundai’s initiative quickly was emulated. Its cousin, the restyled Kia Ev6 GT, now adopts the same philosophy with an E-SHIFT system and an identical power of 650 ch. But the phenomenon goes far beyond the Korean group:
- Lexus teams its SUV RZ 550E F Sport with an activated 8 -speed virtual box via driving pallets, supplemented by a sound evoking that of the legendary LFA
- Abarth puts on an artificial sound of an Italian survitamin for its 600th, without gearbox simulation
- Dodge has developed the technology “Fratzonic Chambéred Exhaust” for its electric Daytona load, recreating the sound of a V8 via acoustic rooms
- Ferrari works on “acoustic conduits” connecting the electric motor to the passenger compartment to transmit the natural vibrations of the rotor
- Ford explores a more radical solution with a real manual gear lever in its future electric
These various approaches show that manufacturers explore different avenues to answer the same question: how to keep the emotional DNA of their marks in the electric era?
A more complex technology than it seems
Contrary to popular belief, these systems go far beyond simple sound effects disseminated by speakers. Engineers are looking to create a complete sensory experience involving several dimensions:
The sound component uses sophisticated algorithms that adapt virtual sound according to multiple parameters (speed, acceleration, driving mode). This sound is broadcast both in the cabin and outside, thus respecting AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alert System) standards for pedestrian safety.
The tactile dimension is just as important. Manufacturers like Hyundai or Dodge incorporate actuators who transmit vibrations through the seat, steering wheel or vehicle structure. These synchronized micro-movements with sound considerably strengthen immersion.
Finally, virtual speed changes are accompanied by modulations in the delivered power, creating this characteristic sensation of “blow in the back” during the ratio of ratio. The Ioniq 5 N goes so far as to simulate the “cabinet” of a powerful car that accelerates.
Between nostalgia and commercial pragmatism
This trend naturally raises questions. Why seek to imitate the past when electric propulsion offers clean characteristics? The answer is at the intersection of several factors.
First, it is a transition strategy. For many manufacturers, these systems constitute a bridge allowing drivers accustomed to thermal sensations to gradually adapt to electric without losing their benchmarks. In a market where autonomy and the charging network remain concerns, these familiar sensory elements can tip the balance in favor of electric purchase.
In addition, this trend is part of a broader “retro-innovation” movement where the most advanced technologies are dressed in familiar and reassuring attributes-like connected watches that imitate analog dials or Bluetooth speakers with vintage design.
A future where experience takes precedence over technology
This phenomenon reveals a fundamental truth about our relationship to the automobile: beyond performance or efficiency, it is the sensory experience that creates attachment. The manufacturers have understood this well: the future belongs to those who will be able to reconcile the objective advantages of electricity (instant acceleration, silence, absence of parasitic vibrations) with the subjective elements that have forged our automotive culture.
The most interesting is that these systems are generally activated or deactivable at will. You can go from 100% silent electric driving to a “virtual thermal” experience according to your mood or the context. This flexibility ultimately represents the best of both worlds.
Whether you are a purist or converted to the electric, these innovations deserve your attention. They bear witness to remarkable creativity on the part of engineers to reconcile technical progress and sensory pleasure. And if ultimately, the real luxury in the mobility of tomorrow was not raw performance but the possibility of precisely choosing the experience that we want to live at the wheel?
Written by Philippe Moureau
Forty -year -old passionate about electric cars. I am interested in the energy transition and the fight against greenhouse gas emissions. I am a real enthusiast of electric cars and an environment defender.
