Summary
- Electric vehicles are silent, leading to safety concerns for pedestrians, so they are mandated to have a sound system
- Some car manufacturers are getting creative with the sounds their EVs make, but a balance is needed for health and ecological reasons
- High-pitched, UFO-like sounds are being used by some EVs, but non-tonal AVAS sounds are preferred by drivers
- Noise pollution caused by transportation sounds is a major problem in cities, affecting wildlife and human health
- Automakers and designers need to work together to create a better standard for EV sound to balance safety, creativity, and environmental concerns
Article
Electric vehicles are known for their quiet operation, which can pose safety risks for pedestrians who rely on sound to alert them to approaching cars. To address this issue, the U.S. and other nations are mandating that all electric vehicles be equipped with an acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS). Some carmakers have embraced this requirement as an opportunity to create unique and memorable sounds for their electric vehicles, aligning with their brand identities and appealing to consumers who appreciate futuristic or distinctive sounds. However, there are concerns about the impact of these AVAS sounds on noise pollution and public health.
There is a growing recognition that the sounds electric vehicles make have broader implications beyond branding and consumer preferences. Noise pollution, primarily caused by transportation sounds, has been linked to various health issues and disruptions in wildlife behavior. With the majority of cars expected to be electric by 2050, there is a need to consider the environmental impact of AVAS approaches and explore ways to mitigate noise pollution. Regulations surrounding EVs have become a contentious political issue, complicating discussions on how to balance innovation, safety, and cultural preferences in the automotive industry.
Automotive brands are grappling with the challenge of preserving traditional associations with power and strength while transitioning to an electric vehicle future. AVAS sounds play a role in shaping the emotional connection between drivers and their vehicles, but it is essential to strike a balance between differentiation and functionality. Designers and automakers have a shared responsibility to set a better sonic standard for the auto industry, emphasizing the importance of harmoniously integrating AVAS sounds within the environmental soundscape while considering pedestrian safety and noise pollution concerns.
By establishing shared design principles and encouraging creative innovation within a more regulated framework, automakers can address concerns about noise pollution and pedestrian safety while still allowing for brand distinction and consumer appeal. Interior car sounds present an opportunity for distinctive branding experiences, offering designers a platform to create multisensory experiences that enhance the overall driving experience. By approaching the EV sound experience holistically, designers can reduce reliance on AVAS for branding purposes and prioritize health, safety, and environmental considerations.
Ultimately, the transformation to electric vehicles represents a significant shift in the way we interact with transportation and the environment. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, it is crucial to prioritize sound design as a fundamental component of the overall driving experience. By rethinking the approach to AVAS sounds and considering the long-term implications for public health and environmental impact, designers and automakers can create a new ecosystem of EV sounds that prioritize functionality, safety, and sustainability.
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