Ferrari developing fake engine noise & gearshifts for its EVs

There is a possibility that Ferrari might be able to recreate the sounds of their famous and historic engines in its EVs.

Ferrari has been in the news for its upcoming EV, and now the supercar maker has said its first EV will have its own ‘sound signature’. A videographer also caught a Ferrari EV prototype driving around Maranello, making an engine-like sound. Two recent patent applications that have been filed indicate that Ferrari is working on a virtual engine and gear-shift system for EVs.

The first patent describes a system for an EV that uses an electric motor to simulate the torque output of an internal combustion engine and the gearshifts of a geared transmission. The torque output from the motor is defined by the position of the accelerator pedal and the virtual gear. The driver can actuate virtual gearshifts using paddle shifters, like those in other Ferrari models.

The second one talks about an audio-control system for such an EV, where both interior and exterior speakers reproduce a digitally generated sound that corresponds with a virtual engine and transmission model. The sound can be anything from ‘ historical, modern to futuristic, adrenaline-filled or relaxed’ based on driver preferences. There are additional sounds for gear shifts as well. Methods for recording the sound of ICE cars are also mentioned in the patent.

There is a possibility that Ferrari might be able to recreate the sounds of their famous and historic engines in its EVs. Ferrari has repeatedly said that it wants its EVs to give the same emotional experience and connect like its internal combustion engine cars. This news seems to be a step in that direction.

But Ferrari is not alone. Hyundai implemented a similar system in the Ioniq 5 N, emulating an 8,000-rpm turbocharged four-cylinder and eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Kia has adopted it for the EV6 and EV9 GT models.

Ferrari’s first EV will be making its global debut in October later this year.

Source: Motor1.com