The Future of "Singing" Electric Cars

Looking Forward

The NHTSA’s lack of specification essentially enables car companies to sculpt the sound of the next generation of automobiles as they see fit. Some companies have opted to stick with the classic, rumbling sound of a traditional combustion engine, but as we saw in this year’s Tokyo Motorshow, companies are increasingly moving away from artificial engine noises and towards more unique, identifiable tones. In other words, the car of the future likely sings! Of course, it’s unlikely to hear Adele or Frank Ocean motoring their way down the highway anytime soon. What that noise will be, however, is still very much up for debate. Some companies have opted for a softer humming noise; some have gone the monotone beeping route, and a few have even experimented with a slightly melodic whirring sound. Interestingly, the technology in use behind these alert sounds is still developing, and actually presents the opportunity for genuinely exciting innovation.