Toyota sets the stage for a new electric driving experience with its prospective electric sports cars, making waves in the EV industry. The concept is incredibly exciting – the ability to download your favourite engine sounds and adjust your car’s driving dynamics.
The Innovation under the Hood
The GR (Gazoo Racing) line of Toyota is not just about speed or power. Toyota’s chief branding officer, Simon Humphries, emphasises an all-around sensory experience behind the wheel. “Every GR product must be a sensory delight – it can’t just be about breakneck speeds. The vehicle needs to be equally fun around corners. And it has to reward drivers who are invested in honing their skills and taking more control.” He mentioned. “Smooth manual shifting with a quick clutch action used to be a thrill in the past, why not with an EV?”
The Concept of Downloadable Features
The concept of downloadable features seems like something out of a sci-fi movie, but Toyota appears to be making it a reality. Imagine starting your day with the sonorous rumble of an old V12 Formula 1 engine and ending it with the throaty growl of a big V8 engine. Imagine having a vehicle that could effortlessly switch between four-wheel drive in winter and rear-wheel drive in the summer. The future of dynamic driving experiences could be very intriguing indeed.
Realising the Concept
The question isn’t whether this technology is interesting, it’s whether it’s achievable. To this effect, Toyota is leaving no stone unturned. GR manager Masahito Watanabe shares that several prototypes have been developed and there’s a consensus – sound greatly influences the enjoyment of driving. “This is something we tangibly felt in our development,” he noted.
The development team at Toyota is currently working on a sound that perfectly resonates with the dynamics of the car, uplifting the spirits of its passengers. However, Watanabe stopped short of confirming if different sounds would be available for download.
Demand for “Engine Noise” in EVs
While the notion of “engine noise” in electric vehicles may seem contradictory, there’s an undeniable demand for it, especially as EVs become more mainstream. Some EVs, like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, have successfully integrated this feature, while others, like the Abarth, have missed the mark.
The anticipation is high for the FT-Se, scheduled for production in 2027. It promises not just to be an EV but an immersive, customizable experience for its drivers. The question is, are we ready to embrace this unique feature that Toyota’s future electric sports cars propose to offer?
