Can a simulated eight-speed transmission finally make electric vehicles feel like combustion sports cars?
Hyundai is challenging the perception of electric performance with the Ioniq 5 N. By integrating features like N e-Shift, which mimics the jolt and engine braking of a dual-clutch transmission, the company aims to bridge the emotional gap between silent electric motors and the visceral experience of traditional combustion engines.
The Ioniq 5 N represents a departure from standard electric vehicle design, focusing heavily on driver engagement and customization. Central to this philosophy is N e-Shift, a system that simulates the behavior of an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission found in internal combustion engine models. By manipulating motor torque and power output, the system creates the physical sensation of gear shifts, including the characteristic jolt and simulated engine braking through regenerative force. This allows drivers to experience the familiar emotions of a combustion vehicle while navigating racetracks or winding roads.
Beyond gear simulation, the vehicle offers a suite of performance-oriented tools designed to enhance handling and control. The N Pedal feature addresses the weight of electric vehicles by increasing regenerative force to sharpen corner entry, while the N Torque Distribution system provides eleven levels of adjustment for the front and rear drive ratio. For enthusiasts, the N Drift Optimizer includes a Torque Kick Drift function that replicates the clutch kick action of rear-wheel-drive cars, facilitating immediate drift initiation.
The vehicle also prioritizes sensory feedback and track readiness. N Active Sound+ uses eight internal and two external speakers to project engine and exhaust noises, including a fighter-jet-inspired sound called Supersonic. Drivers can even rev the system while in park. Furthermore, features like N Race, N Launch Control, and N Battery Preconditioning ensure that power delivery and thermal management are optimized for high-performance driving. The inclusion of a mechanical electronic Limited Slip Differential further underscores the commitment to genuine handling performance, proving that electric platforms can be configured to satisfy even the most dedicated combustion enthusiasts.
Source: Hyundai Changed The Game - An "8-Speed" Electric Car!
