The BMW M sports division aims to replicate a technical solution from Hyundai. The gearshift simulator of the electric Ioniq 5 N model has caught the attention of Munich-based company.
As all brands are focusing on electrification, BMW is also working on its future sports cars. The M division of the Munich-based company wants to preserve a traditional sporty aspect.
Engineers are drawing inspiration from leading electric vehicles. However, in creating the futuristic electric sports car, BMW M also seeks inspiration from eccentric models.
BMW M CEO, Frank van Meel, revealed a keen interest in the developments at Hyundai. Specifically, the Ioniq 5 N with its engine sounds and gear change simulations has intrigued him.
“I like their way of thinking, it aligns with ours,” stated van Meel. “Feedback is crucial. On the track, you don’t have time to look at your speedometer or tachometer.”
“During a race, if you take time to look at your screen, two cars will pass you. So, you need a way to know which gear you’re in, a way to ‘feel’ the rpm.”
“In an electric car, with a single gear, no sound, no emotion, you don’t know if you’re driving at 125, 150, or anything else. We need to find a solution to this problem. We need to establish a connection with the driver’s brain, without forcing them to look at their dashboard.”
“I think what Hyundai has done with speed emulation and sound, which is actually what we are already working on, is the way forward. We need something like this in our high-performance cars.”
“A New Dimension of Sports Cars”
The idea of having the sound of a combustion engine appeals to the German automaker and its engineers. However, they believe the sound should not be excessively loud or deviate too far from that concept.
“We wouldn’t create a fake supercar or spaceship noise. I don’t think the ‘WRC’ sound from the Hyundai resembles that of a real WRC car. But I appreciate their way of thinking.”
The Ioniq 5 N offers a sound reminiscent of the Hyundai i20 WRC. BMW aims to introduce a distinctive engine sound, along with simulated gear shifts.
Van Meel revealed that this project has been in progress at BMW M workshops for several years. “We have very interesting approaches to solving this issue,” he mentioned.
BMW M’s Development Director, Dirk Häcker, sees an opportunity for innovation. He believes the solution should be easy to use and maintain a traditional essence.
“I think it’s crucial to create a new dimension of authentic sports cars, with the driver at the center, without turning it into a ‘PlayStation’,” he said. “We need to ensure we don’t add too many features. Our cars should have a single mission without distractions.”