Porsche’s ‘Tunnel Mode’ Is Proof They Understand Driving Joy Better Than Anyone

Tunnel Vision

We know how much Porsche focuses on its engineering, however, a recently revealed patent underscores that they’re just as invested in your experience. The patent in question, filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) late last year and published a few days ago, details a ‘tunnel operating mode’ designed to intensify the experience of blasting through tunnel. Yes, Porsche is working on technology to give occupants of their future vehicles a full-blown sensory and aural rush, and we’re all for it!

Automatic Tunnel Thrills

Porsche’s proposed tunnel operating mode will detect when you are approaching a tunnel in a number of ways. These include using route information from your GPS navigation system, forward-facing cameras, and the vehicle’s traffic sign recognition system to identify that there’s a tunnel ahead. Next, the driver will receive a visual and/or audible notification about 500 meters before entering the tunnel and can choose whether or not to activate the system, either via a button or by voice command. 

Once the driver activates the system, the car automatically initiates various steps to provide an emotional acoustic experience for the occupants. The windows are rolled down, Sport mode is activated, the transmission shifts down to a lower gear to raise revs, and exhaust valves (if any) open up. There are also provisions to raise the temperature of the air conditioning and activate the heated seats during cold weather, ensuring occupant comfort.

All the driver needs to do is floor it, grin widely, and let that German symphony roar. The patent also includes provisions to bring these aural thrills to Porsche’s battery-powered models by sending synthesized engine noise through the speakers, so that EV drivers don’t have to miss out on the fun and aural excitement of ripping through a tunnel.

Quiet Mode

Now, what if you are enjoying a relaxed drive or would like to maintain a conversation as you cruise through a tunnel? The patent details a second tunnel operating mode, designed specifically to suppress cabin noise. When the driver is notified that a tunnel is approaching, they will have the choice to activate this alternate mode, which does the opposite of what has been described above to keep the cabin as quiet and comfortable as possible.

This includes closing up the exhaust valve (if applicable), sealing the windows, and perhaps selecting a relaxed drive mode. In addition, acoustic sensors detect and analyze external noise, after which an inverted acoustic signal is generated and pumped through the speakers. Yes, future Porsches may have active noise cancellation built in!

Driving Emotion

This patented tunnel operating mode, while exciting for the enthusiast, remains a concept for now. It does, however, signal Porsche’s intention to turn the most ordinary driving moments into memorable experiences. It’s nice to know that an automobile manufacturer known for its no-nonsense engineering and single-minded focus on how we drive is also paying attention to the emotional aspect of how its cars make us feel.