Electric motors develop their maximum torque the moment they start turning, giving them instantaneous accelerator response and rapid acceleration from rest, without the lag associated with an internal-combustion engine (ICE). However, the sudden response can be jarring, especially in the case of a particularly powerful vehicle.
The sudden jolts can be hard to modulate in some EVs, and their jerky power delivery and abrupt acceleration can cause discomfort and motion sickness. Audi filed a patent application at the European Patent Office outlining a filter function that gives an electric motor a smoother accelerator response, more akin to that of an ICE vehicle.
No Lag, Just Smooth Response
Audi describes a filter function that modulates the electric motor’s torque output to smooth it out and provide a more natural response. It doesn’t introduce lag or dull the acceleration, it just provides a more linear and natural-feeling response free of jerks and jolts when applying the accelerator, especially from a standstill. The filter controls torque delivery in real time and isn’t simply a torque-limiting device.
A more progressive accelerator map has several upsides:
- A smoother driving experience
- Enhanced passenger comfort
- Better vehicle control and safety
- A lower risk of sudden, excessive acceleration
Different Profiles For Different Modes
Audi proposes that different driving modes can be given different torque-filter profiles, so sharp acceleration can still be invoked with the appropriate sporty driving mode if desired. But the default or eco modes can supply the torque more smoothly and naturally, providing more flexibility and control over the acceleration profile. It differs from other similar systems in that it’s a real-time filter function that’s fully integrated into the vehicle’s control system, not just a torque reducer.
Summary
As the novelty of EVs’ quick acceleration wears off and they become a regular part of everyday life, people who use them as daily drivers expect the same kind of smoothness they’ve become accustomed to. Audi’s torque filter can make the driving experience feel more natural and ease people into EV adoption more effectively by providing a refined, progressive acceleration profile that filters out the jolts and jerks associated with powerful EVs.
