Aston Martin Considers Simulated Gear Shifts To Keep EVs Exciting

Aston Martin is preparing to launch its first all-electric vehicle later this decade. The luxury automaker might draw on battery and motor technology supplied by Lucid for its first EV.

However, as the British marque transitions toward electrification, leaders at Aston Martin are debating how to preserve the visceral driving character that has long been associated with the brand. The options the company is currently considering for its EV lineup include simulated gear changes and combustion-style sound effects to heighten engagement behind the wheel.

Simulated performance tech under evaluation

Speaking at Monterey Car Week, Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman confirmed Aston Martin is studying systems similar to those used in Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N. The company is particularly interested in artificial gear shifts and sound profiles that mimic the sound of combustion engines.

Reichman emphasized, however, that any enhancement must improve performance rather than serve as a gimmick. “If it is something that is purely artificial, then no. Because an Aston Martin is true; it’s authentic,” he told CarBuzz.

Motorsport-derived data, including from the company’s Formula One program, could also inform how torque vectoring and power delivery are tuned to boost driving emotion.

Valhalla hypercar arrives before full EV

Before the debut of its battery-electric car, Aston Martin is preparing to launch the Valhalla plug-in hybrid hypercar. Aston Martin’s PHEV is positioned against rivals like the McLaren W1 and Ferrari F80.

The Valhalla will serve as a limited-run, mid-engined showcase of the brand’s performance DNA. Once that model arrives, Aston Martin is expected to turn its focus fully to electrification. While the shape of the first EV, whether it’s a sports car, supercar, or SUV, remains undisclosed, its use of Lucid-sourced powertrain technology highlights the marque’s push to balance tradition with innovation.

EV.com tracks the evolving EV collector space and performance electric vehicles hitting the market. Explore our listings to find the best EVs in your area available today.