EVs Embrace Their Inner Beast: Why Fake Engine Noises Are Making a Comeback!
Electric vehicles are increasingly adopting simulated shifts, sounds, and even vibrations to recreate the visceral experience of traditional gas-powered cars. This trend, exemplified by models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door, aims to provide a more emotionally engaging driving experience. Automakers are leveraging advanced computing to bring back the sensory character often missing in silent, torque-rich EVs.
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has introduced a new dynamic to performance cars, offering instantaneous torque and exhilarating speed. However, this shift has also led to a loss of the distinct powertrain character that defines iconic models like a Porsche 911 or a Ferrari. Automakers, who have historically built their identity around the unique sound and feel of their engines, face the challenge of differentiating an EV Porsche from an EV Hyundai when both deliver silent, torque-rich power. The solution many are exploring is to leverage an EV's advanced computing power to imitate the sensory experience of a gas engine.
This endeavor first manifested prominently in the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. When its 'e-Shift' feature is activated, the car's electric motors and single-speed transmission are remapped to emulate the power delivery curve of the Hyundai Elantra N's 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. This simulation creates momentary torque cuts and surges as the driver 'paddles' through artificial gears. Cruising in 'eighth' and then flattening the throttle even introduces a noticeable hesitation, mimicking a turbocharged engine building revs and boost before unleashing full power. While some purists might initially dismiss this concept, the effectiveness of fake shifts has been lauded, with the Ioniq 5 N's powertrain earning a MotorTrend Best Tech award in 2025 for its engaging experience. Other manufacturers are quickly adopting this trend; the 2026 Lexus RZ550e F Sport and the 2027 Porsche Taycan are both designed to simulate eight-speed automatics. Furthermore, the electric 2027 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door, in its AMGFORCE Sport+ mode, will replicate the feel and speed of AMG's nine-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission.
Beyond simulated shifts, automakers are also tackling the auditory void left by electric powertrains. While the Ioniq 5 N's initial attempts at replicating engine sounds, offering profiles like 'race car,' 'fighter jet,' and 'sci-fi spaceship,' were noted for their somewhat arcade-game quality, the technology is rapidly evolving. Similarly, Dodge engineers struggled to create a compelling sonic signature for the Charger Daytona by sampling historical Stellantis vehicles, including the 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car. However, the quality of in-cabin engine sound augmentation has significantly improved over time, with modern systems making it nearly impossible to distinguish between genuine engine notes and those piped through speakers. Mercedes-Benz is pushing this further with its electric GT, which will utilize 1,600 sound files to generate a soundtrack modeled after the company's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine.
The next frontier in recreating the gas car experience involves physical vibrations. AMG is set to be the first to market in this area, integrating seat shakers into the GT that are designed to reproduce the distinct loping idle of a cross-plane-crank V-8. Hyundai's R&D boss, Manfred Harrer, has also confirmed that his engineers are actively developing a similar concept. These innovations collectively highlight a concerted effort within the automotive industry to infuse electric performance vehicles with the soul and character traditionally associated with their internal combustion engine predecessors, ensuring they stir the driver's emotions beyond just raw speed.