Why is the motor of electric cars so quiet? And what are the pros and cons of this feature? In this article, we will explore the silence of the electric motor and its impact on daily driving, including the issue of artificial noise.
Why is the motor of electric cars silent?
The electric motor operates in a radically different way than an internal combustion engine. In fact, while a gasoline or diesel engine produces noise due to the combustion of fuel and the mechanical vibrations produced by the movements of pistons and valves, the electric motor operates smoothly and quietly. This is due to its architecture, which does not require complex moving parts and generates motion through magnetic fields, drastically reducing friction and noise compared to heat engines.
This feature not only contributes to quieter operation, but also reduces wear and tear on parts, improving reliability and decreasing maintenance costs over time. In essence, electric car motors generate less friction and, as a result, produce less sound. In addition, the transmission system is simpler, further contributing to a quiet driving experience.
The silence of the electric motor: advantages and disadvantages
The silence of the electric motor has several advantages. First of all, driving is considerably more comfortable. Drivers can enjoy greater peace and quiet, listen to music without background noise, but most importantly, have significantly greater alertness to what is happening around the moving vehicle. In addition, the absence of noise helps reduce noise pollution in urban areas, creating a more pleasant environment for everyone.
However, electric and silent cars also present some challenges that manufacturers have had to face. One of the main issues relates to road safety: the silence of electric cars can pose a risk to pedestrians, particularly people with visual impairments. Without engine noise, it is more difficult for pedestrians to perceive the approach of a vehicle, especially at low speeds when the sound of tires or aerodynamics is less noticeable. This has attracted increasing attention from authorities and road safety organizations, prompting the automotive industry to develop innovative solutions.
Artificial noise and AVAS: why is it necessary?
To address this issue, many electric car manufacturers have introduced the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). This system generates an artificial noise when the vehicle is moving at low speeds, allowing pedestrians to sense the arrival of an electric car. The sound is designed to be audible but not intrusive, trying to maintain the balance between safety and silence that characterizes electric cars.
In the European Union, regulations require artificial noise to be active up to a speed of 20km/h and during reversing. Above 20km/h, the noise generated by tires and wind is considered sufficient to make the vehicle audible.
Artificial noise not only enhances safety but also contributes to the acoustic identity of the electric car. In fact, several manufacturers are working on distinctive sound designs that can make each model recognizable through sound as well. This innovative approach not only meets a practical need, but could also turn into a distinctive brand element.
The role of sound design for electric car engine
Sound design is becoming increasingly important in the automotive landscape. It is not only about safety, but also about how drivers perceive their driving experience. A well-designed sound can improve the feeling of performance, making the vehicle more exciting and engaging. In addition, sound can affect the driver’s mood, turning driving into a more pleasant experience.
Several automakers are experimenting with sounds designed to evoke feelings of power and dynamism. These sounds, often designed to activate based on speed, acceleration and other parameters, make each journey unique. This innovation shows how the automotive industry is evolving, adapting to new sustainability needs without sacrificing the emotional aspect of driving.
As technologies evolve, electric cars continue to prove themselves on the cutting edge, making sustainable mobility not only a goal, but also a pleasure to experience.
