Honda EVs to get selectable engine sound emulating famous models

Honda engineers stated that an artificial manual transmission has also been developed and exists internally.

Honda, like other carmakers, will be emulating engine noises on its electric vehicles. However, the Japanese carmaker is reportedly taking it one step further.

As per reports, Honda's upcoming "0 Series" EVs, showcased recently, will feature a car selection menu on the instrument cluster. The EV will then replicate the engine noise of the specific car selected. The car menu comprises some of Honda's most noted performance models, ranging from the S2000, both generation NSXs, and Civic Type R. The selection menu also consists of a "VTEC" mode with a noticeable uptick in the engine noise volume.

What's more interesting is that, in addition to these cars, the selection menu also consists of a HondaJet, wherein the EV emulates the sounds of a real plane. A CRX and an F1 car option are also present in the selection menu but are currently locked, indicating they could be introduced at a slightly later stage. Apart from the engine noises, the EV's instrument cluster also changes to replicate that of the specific car selected. Reports also state that the seats of the EV also vibrate, further giving the feeling that one is driving the actual old sports car.

It doesn't end there, reports stated that Honda engineers also confirmed that the EV will get drive modes that come with artificial gear ratios that can be controlled via paddles - similar to that on the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Honda engineers stated that an artificial manual transmission has also been developed and exists internally. However, whether or not the company brings this tech into production models remains uncertain.

The tech, though, is still a work in progress. Honda still has to iron out the lag when switching between different modes. Also, the artificial engine noise reportedly requires some refining.

Source: TheDrive