Can you engineer fun into electric cars?

Electric vehicles have a problem: people just don't think they're any fun. But finally, automakers are trying to prove them wrong. Can they deliver? We'll see. [Use WD-40 Specialist® Silicone to protect your tools and projects. This stuff coats and shields metal without leaving sticky residue, and it’s safe on a huge range of materials. Shop Now https://bit.ly/4v8OLIy ] “Fun” is an elusive concept whose definition depends on who you are, but I think we can agree that EVs have their compromises: they’re heavy, they don’t make cool noises, and they’re not visceral machines. At the same time, there are some upsides: strong acceleration, a low center of gravity, and most important here, the freedom for automakers to throw in all sorts of software-based goodies for enthusiasts. In one corner, we have the Hyundai Ioniq 5N, a traditional electric crossover with the performance turned up to 11. It’s been roundly praised by reviewers for its playful handling, variable torque split that can make it more FWD or RWD with a few taps on the screen, its fake gearshifts that mimic an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, and its willingness to drift. In the other, we have the Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack, an electric performance sedan cosplaying as a traditional muscle car. It… hasn’t been praised by reviewers, but it sure is trying hard: you’ve got a drift/donut mode, a loud external “exhaust,” super wide tires, and a “PowerShot” boost button. Both cars have over 600 horsepower and all-wheel drive. And both cars claim to be the thing you’ve been waiting for. This isn’t a normal comparison review. Instead, we’re trying to answer the big question here: Is it even possible make an objectively fun EV with today’s technology? And can you fairly call a car fun if you need software gimmicks, the skills of a professional driver, and a wide open track to experience it? Learn more about Nik's coaching business here → https://www.fastsideways.com/ Produced by →   / joeyrassool   Hosted by →   / nikromanoracing   Hosted by →   / kylecheromcha   Previous episode →    • Senna's magic track technique SHOULDN'T work   The Drive is the chronicle of car culture. We write stories you actually want to read. → https://www.thedrive.com/ FOLLOW US! Instagram →   / thedrive   Facebook →   / thedrive   TikTok →   / thedrive_official   WORK WITH US → [email protected]