Honda’s S+ Shift: Emulating the Gas Car Experience
Honda is pushing the boundaries of electric and hybrid driving experiences. The Japanese automaker recently announced its S+ Shift Technology, designed to give drivers the feel of a high-performance gas engine. The system will debut on the new Prelude coupe.
S+ Shift: A Simulated Driving Sensation
S+ Shift builds on Honda’s existing Linear Shift Control system. The new feature gives precise control over engine speed (RPM) – even though an electric motor propels the wheels. The result is “dynamic engine rpm changes” and the sensation of crisp gear shifts.
The goal is to replicate a gas-powered driving experience. Think of it akin to Hyundai’s N e-Shift system, which can emulate engine sounds and shift behaviors. Honda aims to create a visceral connection for the driver, with the engine sound synchronized through car speakers and displayed on a new dashboard display.
Next-Gen Hybrid Technology
Beyond S+ Shift, Honda is also rolling out its next-generation e:HEV hybrid system. Set to arrive in 2027, this system promises improved fuel economy and reduced costs.
The enhancements include new engines for both smaller (1.5-liter) and larger (2.0-liter) models. Honda says these engines are tuned for optimal combustion efficiency. The automaker has also developed a compact and more efficient front drive unit. This standardization will result in a lighter vehicle, with nearly 60 percent parts commonality across models.
Honda will introduce a new all-wheel drive (AWD) unit that eliminates the need for a center driveshaft. This design allows for quicker responses, improved simplicity, and optimized fuel economy. The new system will employ a dedicated motor at the rear to power the wheels. The goal is to enhance torque delivery for superior traction and handling.
With these innovations, Honda expects a reduction in hybrid costs of up to 50 percent compared to 2018 levels while improving fuel economy by 10 percent. The S+ Shift and other new technologies show that Honda is committed to improving the driving experience of electric and hybrid vehicles.
