Fake Gears, Genuine Enjoyment: A Professional Driver Advocates for EV Features

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      As the mainstream electric vehicle market becomes more established, automakers are seeking ways to attract enthusiasts. While creating a speedy EV is relatively straightforward, speed doesn't always equate to enjoyment.

      EV engineers face unique challenges. Although aerodynamics are crucial for both performance and efficiency, the engineering solutions for each differ significantly. Performance vehicles require aerodynamic components to generate downforce for enhanced grip, which consequently increases drag—a major drawback for efficiency.

      Additionally, there's the issue of weight. The Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack featured in this video weighs 5,800 pounds, which is 1,000 pounds more than the already substantial Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. While both cars aim to appeal to enthusiasts, their approaches vary considerably.

      Few people seem to embrace artificial engine sounds, but there are likely some who do. Most feedback we've received ranges from indifference to outright disdain. Kyle Cheromcha, Editor-in-Chief of The Drive, and our resident race car driver, Nik Romano, decided to analyze these sounds more impartially.

      Hyundai opted for a digital solution, giving the 5 N a lively sound resembling that of a high-revving racing engine. In contrast, Dodge employs a physical resonator system that uses speakers and motors to create sound and vibrations for a more robust experience.

      Regardless of the method, artificial powertrain noise in an EV provides a real enhancement to the driving experience, especially when pushing the vehicle to its limits.

      “Sound is feedback; sound is information,” Romano explains.

      Engine noise and artificial shift “blips” serve as reference points for drivers, allowing them to make quicker decisions rather than relying on instinct. The lack of audible feedback can complicate a driver's understanding of a vehicle's current performance. Although synthesized sounds are not genuine, they are synced to the vehicle's performance systems and still indicate the machine’s electronic and mechanical behavior.

      “As humans, we excel at recognizing patterns,” Romano states. “If I'm approaching a corner at speed and I back off the accelerator for a downshift, listening to the engine's sound gives me a solid idea of the speed I’m carrying into the turn.”

      This is an advantage for Hyundai, which features a simulated “transmission” with selectable “gears” that can be accessed through conventional paddle shifters. While this may be a gimmick, Romano appreciates how it integrates with the car's performance features.

      Cheromcha echoed his positive remarks about Hyundai following a drive on winding roads.

      “It feels like any other sports car, performing as intended,” he noted. “The 5 N is designed with the driver experience in mind.”

      Without the feedback provided by sound, establishing a driving rhythm becomes significantly more challenging. This issue arose again when Romano took the Charger on the track. Unlike the Hyundai, it lacks distinct “gears,” and its glitchy throttle mapping does not reliably synchronize with the car’s synthetic feedback, diluting the intended benefits.

      Although subtle, these aspects disrupt Romano’s driving flow, underscoring the importance of sound feedback in the experience. But don’t just take our word for it—try it yourself.

      “For anyone playing on simulators or games like Forza or Gran Turismo, turn off the engine sound and see how it impacts your lap time,” Romano suggests.

      Some features of the Charger that are less focused on performance do somewhat redeem it. Romano describes its donut mode as “objectively fun,” even if it limits the car's power output. But from a different perspective, with only one motor engaged, you prolong tire life.

      Interestingly, one of Romano’s main grievances regarding the Ioniq 5 N is unrelated to its driving performance. It concerns the necessity of navigating multiple touchscreen menus to adjust performance settings—especially noteworthy since Hyundai is known for its emphasis on physical buttons.

      “I’ll tell you what’s not fun: messing with menus.”

      Amen to that.

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