Porsche Patents “Tunnel Mode” to Add Aural Pleasure to Road Trips
If you’ve love driving then you’ll know the drill. As you enter the mouth of a tunnel you drop the windows, drop down a gear and up the revs to experience the echo of engine against the walls.
Porsche knows it too and has patented a system that can automatically enhance your tunnel runs. The ‘tunnel operating mode’ uses GPS and forward facing cameras to detect when you’re about to enter a concert hall for cars. Around 500 metres before you reach the entrance you’ll get a notification to see if you want to engage the additional acoustic entertainment.
If you say yes, the windows will roll down, Sport mode will be engaged, the transmission will select a lower gear and the exhaust valves will open. If it’s a little chilly then the heated seats and climate control will also be turned up. As the driver you just need to put your foot down and enjoy the enhanced audio.
But what if you’re not in the mood for aural stimulation? Porsche has thought of that too, and a second mode can make your tunnel run extra quiet. If the windows are open, they’ll be closed, the exhaust valves will be shut and an electronic anti-noise system will also be activated.
Drivers of EVs such as Porsche’s Taycan, Macan and upcoming Cayenne won’t be left out either, with the option to turn on a synthesised engine sound as the tunnel approaches.
Just imagine the effect at in the 15.2-mile Laerdal Tunnel or one of the five tunnels on the San Boldo Pass!
If you’ve love driving then you’ll know the drill. As you enter the mouth of a tunnel you drop the windows, drop down a gear and up the revs to experience the echo of engine against the walls.