Ustwo proposes sound system for future electric vehicles

US – The project is a response to a recently passed rule that all electric vehicles must emit a form of sounds while travelling at speeds of up to 19mph.

In 2016, sales of electric vehicles grew by 41% globally, according to Forbes. With the number of electric vehicles on the rise, several car manufacturers are working on replicating engine sounds before the rule comes into effect in 2019.

By looking at different challenges such as automotive branding, urban soundscapes, and population wellbeing and sound design, the design studio offers a variety of audio solutions for electric vehicles.

On producing the sounds, the vehicles were put through tests that examined how sudden changes in sound may communicate risk, as well as how different people perceive risk.

As well as safety, the project also focused on conversation around branding. ‘Historically, the engine sound of a vehicle has been part of the brand expression,’ read a statement from the brand. ‘This might be the time for OEMs to rethink the purpose of the external sound in general.’