Frunk (front trunk)
 |
The Gear Tunnel storage compartment in the Rivian R1T. Photo: Rivian |
The Gear Tunnel storage compartment in the Rivian R1T. Photo: Rivian
American automaker Rivian capitalizes on this advantage with the Gear Tunnel, a tubular storage compartment located beneath the truck bed between the cab and the rear seats of the R1T pickup. The unique Gear Tunnel is only possible because the R1T is an electric vehicle; this space is typically occupied by mechanical components in gasoline-powered pickups. Besides storage, the Gear Tunnel can also accommodate a camp kitchen or a portable projector.
Simulated engine sounds
Fighter jet-inspired sounds in the Ioniq 5 N. Video: Driving Enthusiast
For car enthusiasts who appreciate the roar of an engine and exhaust, electric vehicles’ quiet operation can feel underwhelming. However, automakers are addressing this by creating simulated sounds that mimic traditional engines or explore entirely new auditory experiences.
Hyundai incorporates a fighter jet-inspired "Supersonic" sound mode in the Ioniq 5 N, allowing drivers to customize various sounds. Dodge simulates the classic Hellcat engine in the Charger Daytona SRT. Porsche infuses the Taycan with futuristic spaceship sounds.
Electric all-wheel drive
 |
Mercedes G 580 electric vehicle in Germany. Photo: Mercedes |
Mercedes G 580 electric vehicle in Germany. Photo: Mercedes
All-wheel drive is a valuable feature in electric vehicles, especially for challenging terrain. With all 4 wheels receiving power, the torque distribution can be adjusted to maximize traction, enhancing performance in difficult conditions.
The electric version of the G-Class exemplifies this, with 4 electric motors, one for each wheel. Other examples of electric vehicles with 4 motors include the Lotus Evija, Rimac Nevera, Rivian R1T/R1S, and Zeekr 001 FR.
Crab walk/Tank turn
Prototype Mercedes EQG SUV performing a 360-degree turn. Video: Mercedes
Electric all-wheel drive opens up new possibilities for maneuverability. Automakers are exploring movements that simplify parking and enhance off-road capabilities. General Motors integrates "Crab Walk" into the Hummer EV, allowing it to move diagonally. Hyundai is developing a system for 90-degree sideways movement.
The Rivian R1T and Mercedes G-Class EV utilize 4-wheel drive for tank turns, rotating 360 degrees in place. This is achieved by independent motor control, enabling each wheel to rotate in different directions.
Regenerative braking
 |
Pedals in a Hyundai electric vehicle. Photo: Hyundai |
Pedals in a Hyundai electric vehicle. Photo: Hyundai
Electric vehicle brakes offer regenerative capabilities, converting excess energy to recharge the battery. This system also helps decelerate the vehicle using friction generated by the motor drawing energy from the wheels during braking. As a result, drivers can often operate with just the accelerator, letting the vehicle slow down when the pedal is released – known as "one-pedal driving." This not only enhances convenience but also reduces wear on the conventional braking system.
Virtual gearbox
Simulated engine sound and virtual tachometer in the Ioniq 5 N. Video: Studz Studios
Electric vehicles often lack the interactive element of a traditional gearbox. However, Hyundai developed the e-Shift system for the Ioniq 5 N, providing a manual shifting experience. The e-Shift system allows drivers to shift gears using paddles, accompanied by a virtual tachometer and simulated sounds (including gasoline engine-like pops and bangs). The e-Shift works in conjunction with Active Sound+, a performance-optimized sound function.
Bidirectional charging
 |
Electric vehicle charging a laptop. Photo: CarsGuide |
Electric vehicle charging a laptop. Photo: CarsGuide
Some electric cars and trucks feature bidirectional charging, allowing power flow in both directions. The vehicle's battery acts as a large power bank, capable of charging other vehicles or powering devices. Bidirectional charging is available in models like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Kia EV5, EV6, EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and BYD models.
Boost/Overtake button
"Push to pass" in the Porsche Taycan GTS. Video: AutoTopNL
Overtake boost technology allows drivers to access maximum power and torque for 10 seconds, facilitating quick and easy passing. While not adding new power, but rather utilizing existing capabilities differently, this boost button is a unique feature in electric vehicles.
Some European automakers like Alpine equip the A290 electric hatchback with an Overtake button. This feature draws inspiration from racing, particularly the "Attack Mode" in Formula E. Porsche also includes an overtake button in the Taycan, called Push-to-Pass, providing a 70-95 horsepower boost for up to 10 seconds.
Over-the-air updates
 |
Over-the-air (OTA) update notification on the Volkswagen ID.4. Photo: Team-BHP |
Over-the-air (OTA) update notification on the Volkswagen ID.4. Photo: Team-BHP
Over-the-air (OTA) updates are becoming common in technologically advanced vehicles. OTA updates eliminate the need for workshop visits, reducing warranty costs for manufacturers and saving time for customers. They allow automakers to add features and fix issues quickly, all at the touch of a button, through online accounts and in-car app stores.
Battery preconditioning
 |
Battery preconditioning feature in a BMW electric vehicle. Photo: BMW Blog |
Battery preconditioning feature in a BMW electric vehicle. Photo: BMW Blog
Battery-related concerns are a major factor for electric vehicle buyers. Battery preconditioning addresses this by heating or cooling the battery to its optimal temperature before charging or driving. This results in faster, more stable charging, and extends battery life. Preconditioning also affects cabin temperature, providing warmth in colder months.
In performance-oriented models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, this feature optimizes performance. Hyundai recommends using this feature before activating performance modes like N Launch Control or N Race.
Minh Quan (via Carbuzz)
