Lexus’ sporty RZ is the latest EV with fake engine noises to simulate gear shifting

is a news writer fond of the electric vehicle lifestyle and things that plug in via USB-C. He spent over 15 years in IT support before joining The Verge. Lexus is updating its RZ electric vehicle lineup and introducing new versions that include a simulated manual gearbox and a steer-by-wire system. The top-of-the-line 550e F Sport includes a “Interactive Manual Drive” system that gives the driver the feeling of shifting like a manual gas car “by synchronizing acceleration and deceleration with immersive sound.” It also features the yoke steering wheel Lexus originally showed off for the RZ in 2022, which is available as an option for other versions with drive-by-wire. Interactive Manual Drive features 8-speed virtual gears controlled by paddle shifters and a shift guide meter to give visual feedback on when to upshift and downshift. Lexus isn’t the only company trying fake shifting on EVs; manufacturers like Hyundai include it on the Ioniq 5 N. Previous Next 1 / 2 Image: Lexus Whe ... Read full article.