BMW’s top executive, Frank van Meel, recently shared fascinating insights with WhichCar.com about the innovative ways the company is exploring to enable communication between the driver and the M series electric vehicle (EV). In an effort to address the challenge of drivers not having sufficient time to glance at the EV’s speedometer while on the track, BMW is delving into the realm of simulated gears, acoustic cues, and vibration feedback.

Traditionally, in a gasoline-powered car, various factors such as the engine’s sound, the sensation of gear shifting, and the rev indicator provide valuable information to the driver about the car’s performance, without necessitating their focus on the instrument cluster. However, with EVs typically featuring a single gear, the absence of traditional gear shifts eliminates these perceptible cues.

Interestingly, Porsche’s EV, the Taycan, distinguishes itself by offering a two-speed gearbox, while Hyundai’s recently unveiled Ioniq 5 N utilizes software enhancements to augment its one-speed transmission. Hyundai has developed two technologies aimed at keeping the driver informed about the car’s energy usage.

The first of these technologies, known as N e-shift, emulates the experience of an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission by modulating the torque output of the electric motors. This clever approach provides drivers with a familiar and engaging sensation, simulating the action of gear changes. N Active Sound +, on the other hand, forms the auditory aspect of this formula by offering three distinctive sound themes that accompany the vehicle’s operation. These themes range from recreating the resonant purr of Hyundai N’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine to evoking the captivating sound of a twin-engine fighter jet. Ultimately, all three sound options are designed to effectively communicate the car’s actions to the driver. It is plausible that BMW might adopt a similar strategy for their EV.

The endeavor to enhance the driving experience through technological means is not unprecedented. In fact, certain gasoline-powered cars already employ simulated exhaust sounds to compensate for improved soundproofing and sturdier construction. Moreover, automakers might explore options beyond software-based solutions for EVs. Toyota, for instance, filed a patent in 2022 for a clutch-operated manual transmission specifically tailored for electric vehicles, aiming to further strengthen the connection between the driver and the car.

As for BMW’s specific plans, the precise details will remain undisclosed until the car makes its debut. Unfortunately, it seems that we will have to exercise patience, as the vehicle is presently undergoing development. According to Van Meel, its official unveiling is expected to occur at some point within this decade. So, for now, it appears we will need to hold off on clearing our schedules in anticipation of this exciting new release.

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