Porsche Confirms That Simulated Gearshifts Won't Be Making It To Its Future All-Electric Models

A gimmicky feature that has been well executed on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, development driver Lars Kern confirms that Porsche looked at it, but won't be embracing it

by Khris Bharath on September 2, 2024, 06:00

So, remember when we at Motorheads were all abuzz about Porsche possibly adding a simulated shifter to their electric cars? I’d said earlier that if there’s one thing missing in EVs, it’s driver engagement, and while Dodge has had a go with it on its fake sounds in its latest Charger, it is Hyundai that got execution right on the Ioniq 5 N, where the fake engine sound does not only sound good, but it also perfectly sync’s in with the gear shifts that simulate an eight-speed transmission. But it’s not just me though, top auto journalists from renowned publications, and even influencers like Doug DeMuro and MKBHD a.k.a, Marques Brownlee have praised Hyundai for it. I personally feel that this could become a trend that automakers will start to cash in on. However, seeing such a thing on Porsche is unlikely to happen, as the German automaker has officially put those rumors to bed.

Porsche Dropping The Idea Of Simulated Gear Shifts On Its Future All-Electric Models Could Have Implications

Porsche Confirms That Simulated Gearshifts Won't Be Making It To Its Future All-Electric Models storyboard - image 191994

Speaking to Drive.au, Porsche’s development driver and Nürburgring legend, Lars Kern said, "Why make something worse?" Electric motors are torque monsters, and they don’t need to pretend to be something they’re not. Porsche seems more interested in pushing the boundaries of electric performance. They’ve been investing heavily in technologies like "push-2-pass" and juiced-up launch control, which are designed to give you that instant-on power rush that electric cars are so good at. While you might miss the tactile experience of shifting gears, you can’t deny that the instant torque and quiet operation of an electric motor are pretty addictive.

Now, this whole fake shifter debate does make me wonder: if Porsche hates simulated gears so much, what are the chances of them ever throwing a three-pedals and a manual transmission into an electric car? Like, forget the fake stuff, would they ever go full vintage with a stick? It now seems unlikely, given their commitment to maximizing the benefits of electric power.

Porsche Confirms That Simulated Gearshifts Won't Be Making It To Its Future All-Electric Models storyboard - image 188012

It’s also worth noting that Porsche’s decision could have a ripple effect on other automakers. If one of the most iconic sports car brands in the world is saying that fake shifters are a gimmick, it might make other manufacturers think twice before investing in similar features. But hey, the E.V. world is a wild place right now, , and who knows what crazy tech or consumer demands might pop up down the road. Maybe the future of driving is less about feeling like you’re in a race car and more about feeling like you’re piloting a spaceship.

As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, it’s clear that automakers are experimenting with new ways to make these cars more appealing and engaging to drivers. While some automakers like Hyundai are focusing on retro-inspired features, others are pushing the boundaries of technology. But Porsche’s decision to reject fake shifters is a reminder that the future of electric driving is not about replicating the past and internal combustion. It’s about embracing the unique possibilities that electric power offers in the present and creating new and exciting driving experiences around it for the future.

Khris Bharath

Khris is a Mechanical Engineer and a classic car aficionado, who adores his Jags, Alfas, and old-school American muscle cars. He keeps tabs on everything from super exotics like an old EB 110 to the latest from Lucid and geeks out on three-row family haulers. Formula One remains very close to his heart, and he diligently makes time to tune in for the Grand Prix on Sundays. Khris also loves his road trips and he prefers a stick shift over an auto. Read full bio