Porsche adds virtual eight-speed gearbox to 2027 Taycan

Porsche has unveiled significant updates for its Taycan electric sedan, introducing a virtual gear-shifting system, a larger standard battery, and an upgraded infotainment suite for the 2027 model year. The enhancements are aimed at boosting driver engagement and technological appeal as the model faces declining sales figures.

The headline feature is the new EShift system, which simulates an eight-speed transmission. Using steering wheel-mounted paddles, drivers can shift through the simulated gears, complete with noticeable shift sensations, a virtual rev limiter, and an accompanying soundtrack through the Porsche Electric Sport Sound system. The system can be activated via a button on the steering wheel and includes both manual and automatic modes. Porsche describes the shifts as authentic, with gear-specific drag torque mimicking the engine-braking of a combustion-engine car. EShift is standard on the range-topping Turbo GT model and optional on all other Taycan variants.

The updates come as the Taycan has seen a steep drop in sales, falling from 41,296 units in 2021 to 16,339 last year. Porsche, which previously questioned the viability of simulated gears in an electric...