The sign of any great new technology is how quickly it smoothly slips into your life. When was the last time you actively thought about making a contactless card payment? The speed at which I defaulted to using the faux gears of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's N e-Shift system after making first acquaintance with it - even keeping it murmuring away in the background, mimicking a dual-clutch automatic 'box on more arduous drives - was telling. N division had knocked it out the park.
For example, the Ioniq 5 N can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, which is impressive for an electric vehicle. This is comparable to some gasoline-powered sports cars, which can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.5 seconds. However, the Ioniq 5 N's virtual gearbox allows it to feel more like a traditional sports car, with a more engaging driving experience.
In terms of performance, the Ioniq 5 N has a maximum power output of 576 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque. This allows it to accelerate quickly and smoothly, making it a joy to drive on the road. The virtual gearbox also helps to improve the car's handling, making it feel more agile and responsive to driver input.
Overall, the rise of virtual gearboxes in EV sports cars is an exciting development that is changing the way we think about electric vehicles. With their ability to mimic the driving experience of traditional sports cars, virtual gearboxes are helping to make EVs more appealing to a wider range of drivers. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or just looking for a fun and exciting driving experience, the Ioniq 5 N is definitely worth checking out.
Source: autocar.co.uk


