Ferrari, the luxury Italian car manufacturer, has patented an “engine noise” system for its upcoming electric vehicles (EVs) to enhance the driving experience for occupants and passers-by. The patent, filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office, outlines plans to create an acoustic system that will extract sounds from the electric motor or another “mechanical resonant element” such as an axle, gearbox or wheel rim. The power supply from the electric motor will connect to a control unit that will inject one or more sonority currents or voltages into the motor to produce different frequencies based on the operation of the motor.
According to the patent, Ferrari claims that the sound can be diffused into the passenger compartment and/or outside the vehicle “so as to recall the sensation generated by the dynamics of an internal combustion engine.” The sound could also vary based on the position of the accelerator pedal, the gear engaged, and the drive mode selected. In the patent filing, Ferrari stated that sound is an important part of the driving pleasure of a high-performance sports car, giving drivers immediate feedback. The company also noted that the quietness of EVs can “reduce the driving pleasure in high-performance vehicles” as they lack a characteristic sound, which can be “at least partially disappointing” to drivers.
Ferrari is set to introduce its first EV in 2025, as part of its plan to release 15 new models between now and 2026. The company aims for its line-up to consist of 40% hybrid, 40% all-electric, and 20% internal-combustion vehicles by 2030. Ferrari joins a growing list of car manufacturers, including Abarth, Dodge, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, in creating amplified soundtracks for EVs.
