Porsche Rejects Artificial Gear Changes for EVs, Citing Superior Electric Performance

Porsche, the renowned German automaker, has taken a firm stance against incorporating simulated gear changes in their electric vehicles (EVs). This decision comes amidst a growing trend in the EV industry to mimic traditional combustion engine experiences. According to a recent report from Motor1, Porsche development driver Lars Kern explained the company’s perspective on this matter.

The Case Against Artificial Shifting

Kern emphasized Porsche’s commitment to embracing the inherent advantages of electric powertrains rather than attempting to replicate the characteristics of internal combustion engines (ICE).

He stated, “Our perspective on this is always why should we make something worse. The electric engine is better than an ICE, so we figured there’s no reason to simulate what has been in the past.”

This stance contrasts with approaches taken by other manufacturers, such as Hyundai, which has implemented a “N e-Shift” function in its Ioniq 5 N model to simulate an eight-speed, dual-clutch transmission.

Porsche’s EV Strategy

While Porsche acknowledges the nostalgia associated with manual transmissions, the company believes that artificial gear changes would hinder the performance benefits offered by electric motors. Kern explained:

“We don’t want to fake the combustion engine because we still produce combustion engines, so we don’t see the point of doing it.”

Interestingly, Porsche has incorporated a two-speed transmission in its Taycan model, but this serves a functional purpose rather than a simulated experience. The first gear enables quicker acceleration from a standstill, while the second gear improves efficiency and power delivery at higher speeds.

Industry Trends and Porsche’s Position

Despite the company’s clear stance on artificial gear changes, Porsche continues to use the “Turbo” badge on some of its electric models, such as the Taycan and the upcoming electric Macan. This decision has raised eyebrows, given that the term traditionally referred to turbocharged engines.

Porsche’s approach to EVs reflects a broader industry debate about how to balance the transition to electric powertrains with consumer expectations and preferences shaped by decades of ICE vehicles.

EVXL’s Take

Porsche’s decision to eschew artificial gear changes in their EVs aligns with a forward-thinking approach to electric vehicle technology. This stance resonates with recent discussions in the Tesla community, where the focus has been on maximizing the inherent benefits of electric powertrains rather than mimicking traditional combustion engine characteristics.

As the EV market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how other manufacturers balance innovation with familiarity in their electric offerings. Porsche’s commitment to embracing the unique advantages of electric motors could set a precedent for the industry, potentially influencing consumer expectations and preferences in the long run.

What are your thoughts on Porsche’s approach to EV development? Do you think artificial gear changes have a place in the future of electric vehicles? Share your opinion in the comments section below.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Photos courtesy of Porsche