Video: *Carscoops*.

Engineers at Porsche are not easily impressed. They often dedicate extensive time to perfecting GT3 models, harnessing the power of flat-six engines, and setting records at the Nurburgring racetrack.

When two of Porsche's senior technical directors test-drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and emerged as excited as teenagers leaving a classic video game, it signaled something significant happening in the electric vehicle world.

Porsche's senior technical directors test-driving the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. *Carscoops*.

Frank Moser, vice president for Porsche's 718 and 911 lines, admitted to Australian Drive that he had driven the Ioniq 5 N multiple times, calling it an eye-opening experience.

Moser even brought along Andreas Preuniger, the legendary head of Porsche's GT models, who is known for his passion for petrol engines and is certainly not typically fond of electric vehicles.

Initially, Preuniger was not enthusiastic. According to Moser, when the idea was suggested, Preuniger mumbled, "I do not want any electric car". But once both men got into the car and Moser pressed the Ioniq 5 N's N Grin Boost button, the GT model executive immediately became a convert.

Frank Moser, vice president for Porsche's 718 and 911 lines, admitted he had driven the Ioniq 5 N multiple times, calling it an eye-opening experience. *Carscoops*.

Moser shared, "He exclaimed ‘wow’", describing the moment Hyundai's most powerful electric car unleashed its full 641 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque. Moser stated he learned a great deal from the Korean vehicle.

It was not just the acceleration that captured Porsche's attention. The Ioniq 5 N's unique features, including a virtual gear-shifting system and simulated engine sounds, are prompting Porsche to seriously consider integrating similar features into its upcoming electric 718 model.

Hyundai calls these systems N e-shift and N Active Sound+, two systems that simulate dual-clutch transmission shift sounds and offer various digital sound options mimicking engine and exhaust noises. These features often draw criticism from electric vehicle purists, who believe EVs should be smooth or completely silent. However, performance engineers understand the value of features that make the car feel alive and connect the driver to the driving experience.

Hyundai's most powerful electric car unleashes its full 641 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque. *Carscoops*.

"This is the right direction", Moser commented on the Ioniq 5 N's synthetic features, emphasizing that Porsche will not impose these systems on users. He added, "Customers can decide whether they want to drive in complete silence or engage in the experience, where they can feel the virtual sound of a straight-six engine and virtual gear shifts. That will be the direction for the future".

It is anticipated that if Porsche offers this feature, it will be part of the optional Sport Chrono package, costing at least 2,000 USD for the electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman lines. The electric 718 model is expected to debut in early 2027, and Moser pledged the car would be extremely light compared to current electric vehicles, though he did not disclose exact or estimated weight figures.

Minh Quan