Ferrari, the Italian maker of luxury sports cars, is set to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) in 2025. Earlier this year, a prototype captured by a videographer in Maranello was shown emitting an engine-like sound. Now, according to two new patent applications, Ferrari is reportedly developing a virtual engine and gearshift system for its EV.
One patent describes a system that uses an electric motor to simulate the torque output and gearshifts of an internal-combustion engine. The motor’s torque output will be determined by the position of the accelerator pedal and virtual gear. The driver will be able to control the virtual gearshifts via steering-column paddles, similar to the experience in Ferrari’s traditional models.
Another patent concerns the EV’s audio-control system. Digital sounds that sync with the virtual engine and transmission would be emitted through internal and external speakers. The driver could choose to have the sound be historical, modern, futuristic, adrenaline-filled or relaxing. The system would also provide specific sounds for gearshifts, and the patent describes methods for recording the sound of traditional engines.
It’s unclear whether this technology will be implemented in Ferrari’s first EV, but the system is crucial to the company’s goal of preserving the emotional experience of traditional internal-combustion cars in electric vehicles. Ferrari previously said it would launch in 2025 and start deliveries in 2026. However, the company has not released much information about the system.
Hyundai was the first to implement such a system, simulating an 8,000-rpm turbocharged engine and eight-speed gearbox in its Ioniq 5 N. The system has been successful in giving the driver the feel of a conventional engine and has also been adopted in Kia's EV6 and EV9 GT models. Dodge's Charger Daytona EV also uses a Fratsonic system that produces sound, but it is limited to auditory feedback.
BMW has indicated that it is developing a similar system to Hyundai, but Porsche has made it clear that it will eschew such technology. Ferrari's approach appears to be an innovative attempt to bring its electric vehicles closer to the excitement of conventional models. The automotive world is eagerly awaiting to see if this system makes it to production and how it performs.
