Audi electric car sounds right


Audi is searching for a sound that reflects its brand values to install in its new e-tron electric car.

Audi e-tron

Audi e-tron Image: Audi AG

To prevent accidents caused by the silent car not being heard by pedestrians or other drivers, the car makers has set its team of 'acousticians' the task of finding an iconic sound for the car.

According to Audi, the sound could be based on that of a normal combustion engine, but also needs to reflect the innovative nature of a hybrid or fully electric car.  Most importantly it needs to overcome the fact that electric cars are virtually silent at speeds up to 25kph.

The company's Head of Acoustics, Ralf Kunkel, thinks that the sound could be out of this world, stating: "The sounds used for space ships in films are reminiscent of car sounds, yet are also very different, making this a rather interesting approach."