Porsche praises Hyundai’s fake EV gearshifts and sounds

Switchable gearshifts and engine sounds in Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N high-performance EVs have caught Porsche’s eye, with the German brand confirming it’s looking into the technology as it mulls the launch of its near-complete Boxster and Cayman EVs.

Speaking to carsales at the launch of the new Cayenne Electric, Porsche product spokesperson Ben Weinberger said the company had examined the technology and was impressed.

“We’ll see what happens, but it is not a technology that we do not look at. It’s very interesting. To be honest, Hyundai did a really good job at it,” he said.

To ensure authenticity, the Hyundai software was created by the same teams responsible for the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and dual-clutch automatic used in the i30 N.

If Porsche approved the development of its own artificial shifting system and soundtrack in future, expect it to reference its classic flat-six engine note.

But Weinberger made it clear a final decision about whether it does so hasn’t yet been made.

“If we do it, it will definitely be a Porsche-typical solution, but it would be too early to talk,” he said.

Frank Moser, vice-president of the 718 and 911 model lines, confirmed in 2025 that he had tested the IONIQ 5 N alongside Andreas Preuninger, Porsche’s director of GT models.

Porsche’s interest in the concept is unsurprising, given the company’s focus on preserving engagement as it adds EV models, such as the Taycan, Macan and Cayenne, to its portfolio.

The brand’s EVs can be optioned with Electric Sport Sound, which adds a futuristic, non-geared soundtrack linked to motor speed and load to heighten the driver’s sense of acceleration.

“We will hear what our customers want,” Cayenne Electric complete vehicle manager Michael Hedwig said when asked if the latest model could gain artificial gears later.

But a much closer simulation of a flat-six and PDK transmission could be a good fit for the upcoming Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman EV models, which officially remain in development despite being repeatedly delayed.

The simulated shift discussion has become increasingly relevant because EVs have democratised acceleration and lap times, leaving brands like Porsche searching for ways to recreate more mechanical drama.

The technology remains divisive among enthusiasts, but Hyundai’s execution has been praised by owners and industry figures alike.

For Porsche, which enjoys a reputation built on mechanical feel and engagement, the pressure to deliver more fun in the EV era will continue to intensify.

Whether that ultimately means moving towards simulated shifting and sounds, or a more novel Porsche-developed solution, is up in the air.

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