Beyond Engine Sounds: Unlocking the Potential for Customizable Driving Dynamics
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| Toyota |
Back in October, the curtain rose on the thrilling Toyota FT-Se concept, promising an all-wheel drive EV powertrain with a rear bias for those craving the exhilaration of drifting. Chief Engineer Fumihiko Hazama set the stage for a new breed of electric sports cars, and it seems Toyota is exploring avenues to redefine your driving experience.
According to Simon Humphries, Toyota’s Chief Branding Officer, every Gazoo Racing (GR) product aims to engage all senses, transcending the mere thrill of acceleration. "It needs to make you smile in the corners too. And it should reward people who are prepared to hone their skills and take more control," he asserts.
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| Toyota |
Now, let's set aside the somewhat cringe-worthy notion of emitting "only smiles" for a moment and delve into the revolutionary aspect of Toyota's vision. Imagine waking up to the prospect of downloading diverse engine sounds, transforming your electric sports car's auditory identity. Picture having the ability to alter driving dynamics at will – opting for four-wheel drive in winter and rear-wheel drive during the sunny days of summer. It's a game-changer.
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| Toyota |
GR Manager Masahito Watanabe sheds light on the impact of sound on the driving experience: "We've been making a lot of prototypes of battery EVs, and we have found that sound has a huge impact on that fun-to-drive feeling."
While the dream of downloading your preferred engine sounds hasn't materialized just yet, the revelation that Toyota is actively working on sound dynamics to synchronize with the car's performance is a tantalizing prospect.
But what about the feasibility? We asked Watanabe about Humphries' ambitious vision. "We're still working on and developing a sound that gives you that uplifting feeling that matches with the dynamics of the car."
The potential for customizability in electric vehicles is gaining traction, with some models, like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, successfully incorporating artificial engine sounds. However, not all attempts have hit the right note – a nod to the less successful endeavors, Abarth.
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| Toyota |
As we anticipate the production version of the FT-Se in 2027, the question lingers: Would you embrace the opportunity to enhance your driving experience with downloadable features? The future of electric sports cars could very well be in your hands, offering a symphony of unique experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Photos by Toyota
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