News

Motorists want EVs to sound 'normal'

* Petrol and diesel sounds hit the right note
* Most drivers want individual sounds for brands
* EVs and hybrids seen as 'trendy'
Motorists want EVs to sound 'normal'

The majority of drivers want electric cars to sound like conventionally powered vehicles, according to research by audio firm Harman Kardon.

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Most motorists say the cars 'noise' should be linked to acceleration and braking, with 57% backing a conventional petrol or diesel soundtrack.

However, opinion is divided among different types of car owners; family-car drivers would prefer a quieter and smoother noise, such as a soft whirr.

Meanwhile, 58% of sportscar owners, and 63% of 4x4 drivers, want a traditional engine sound.

However, 70% of those questioned believed that individual brands should have their own distinctive sound.

The survey also revealed that drivers consider hybrids and EVs to be 'trendy', 'adventurous', and 'quirky', while standard cars were seen as 'confident', 'powerful', and 'trustworthy'.

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