Porsche Taycan gets simulated gear shifts

Porsche has added a?new ‘E-Shift’ option to its 2027-spec Taycan range, with every variant primed to be available with a virtual eight-speed transmission and feature the 105kWh ‘Performance Battery Plus’ powerpack as standard. All these developments have been confirmed for North America thus far – Australian plans are TBC at the time of writing, but previous form suggests we won’t have to wait too long for an update.

Much like Hyundai’s pioneering ‘N e-Shift’, Porsche’s new E-Shift system can operate in automatic and manual modes, imitating a paddle-controlled eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in conjunction with an overhauled Porsche Electric Sport Sound suite.

“The gear changes are modelled to feel authentic with noticeable gear shift feel, gear-specific drag torque – comparable to the engine braking behaviour of a combustion-engined car – and a virtual rev limiter,” Porsche said.

“At the same time, the interior and exterior sound of the Porsche Electric Sport Sound adapts to the respective driving situation depending on the load and wheel speed.”

Because the system will be available on every Taycan, each variant has its own sound tuning. As with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and 6 Ns, there’s a rev-counter and shift lights.

Punters wanting a slice of the virtual transmission action will need to tick the “E-Shift including GT Sport steering wheel with paddles” option box as most Porsches don’t come with regen paddles – only the rabid Turbo GT will score the system as standard (in North America).

Speaking of the performance halo, it just lapped the Nürburgring in 6:55.553 minutes fitted with the optional Manthey Kit (aero changes, lighter wheels, stickier tyres, larger front brakes, updated suspension and powertrain tuning).

Other changes coming to the MY27 Taycan include the adoption of the 105kWh ‘Performance Battery Plus’ powerpack across the range, 15W wireless phone charging pads and the new Porsche Digital Interaction infotainment system.

The new tech promises a smoother and more elegant user experience through new graphics and menus, enhanced voice control that uses AI assistance, over-the-air updates, more personalisation options and quicker processing.

All these upgrades have been confirmed for Europe and North America so far, with an Australian announcement expected in the coming days and the first cars likely due by the end of the year.

Prices will almost certainly increase, but we can’t imagine it’ll be by too much given Porsche’s sliding EV sales.

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