Porsche has added a simulated eight-speed manual gearbox to its all-electric Taycan. The system, called E-Shift, creates fake gear changes and engine braking to mimic traditional sports cars.
The feature includes a rev counter on the Taycan’s digital display. Drivers use paddle shifters on the GT sports steering wheel to change “gears” – standard equipment on the 1,094 horsepower Turbo GT and available with the optional Sport Chrono package.
Porsche says E-Shift creates engine braking that feels similar to gasoline-powered cars. The system also produces “noticeable shift jerks” when drivers select new gears.
The gearbox feel and artificial engine sound vary depending on the Taycan’s trim level and power output.
A blue switch on the steering wheel activates E-Shift mode.
Range Improvements
The latest Taycan updates include more than just the simulated transmission. Porsche now offers low-rolling resistance tires for the base rear-wheel-drive model.
These tires boost the sedan’s range by 12 miles to 434 miles total. The Sport Turismo wagon version can now travel 416 miles on a single charge.
Following Industry Trend
Hyundai pioneered simulated gearboxes in EVs with its Ioniq 5 N hyperhatch in 2023. Multiple automakers have adopted similar systems since then.
Kia, Genesis, Lexus, Honda, and now Porsche have all introduced fake manual transmissions. The upcoming RallyX Americas racing series will be the first pure-electric motorsport championship to use simulated gearshifts in its FC1 race cars.
Ford patented its own simulated manual transmission last year – including plans for a traditional H-pattern shifter alongside sequential paddle systems. The technology could appear in Ford’s upcoming performance EVs as the company resets its electric vehicle strategy.
Those models include a new Fiesta based on the Renault 5 platform and a European-spec Bronco.
Porsche hasn’t announced whether E-Shift will come to its other electric vehicles. The automaker also sells the Cayenne Electric SUV and Macan Electric crossover.
The simulated transmission trend reflects automakers’ efforts to preserve the driving experience that enthusiasts expect from performance cars – even as the industry transitions to electric powertrains.
