Techno Revolutionizes Car Sound

author: FutureCar Staff    

Electric vehicles are revolutionizing the automotive industry, not only in terms of their environmental impact but also in how they sound. Car manufacturers are seizing the opportunity to redefine the auditory experience of driving, and many are turning to electronic music producers for help in creating innovative soundscapes.

The connection between techno music and cars is not new. Artists like Juan Atkins, Kraftwerk, and Gary Numan have long explored the intersection of automobiles and music in their work. However, with the rise of electric vehicles, the traditional engine noise is replaced by near silence. To address safety concerns and alert pedestrians to their presence, electric cars are required to make some form of sound. This opens up a world of possibilities for car manufacturers to experiment with new and unique sounds.

Some companies are sticking to familiar engine noises, synthesizing the sound of traditional combustion engines. However, others are taking a more creative approach by incorporating human sounds into the car's "engine" noise. Electronic musicians are at the forefront of this movement, championing the redefinition of how a car should sound.

Richard Devine, a musician and sound designer, has worked with Jaguar on their C-X75 prototype and I-PACE models. He used a combination of high-end software like Symbolic Sound's Kyma and Spear, as well as familiar tools like Max/MSP and Native Instruments Reaktor, to design the sound environments for these cars. Devine's goal was to create sounds that evoke emotion and articulate ideas, incorporating elements from the past while giving them a futuristic twist.

Another example of collaboration between music and cars is the partnership between Japanese manufacturer Green Lord Motors (GLM) and Roland. Roland adapted their SuperNATURAL sound synthesis architecture, featured in their synthesizers, for the audio environment of GLM's Tommykaira ZZ car. The challenge was to match the sound of acceleration and speed, requiring a complete overhaul of the existing synthesis code to work in the car.

Car companies are not only redefining the sound of their vehicles but also considering how these sounds contribute to urban spaces. They aim to create environments that are more human-friendly and elegant. By incorporating audio from human musicians, car manufacturers are infusing their vehicles with a sense of humanity, moving away from aggressive and loud sounds towards a more caring and friendly auditory experience.

Furthermore, modern electric vehicles allow for customization of interior sounds, giving drivers the ability to create their own personalized audio environments. Richard Devine has already started experimenting with creating custom sounds for his own Tesla Model 3 Performance, using the Glydsphere speaker system. This customization adds another layer of synergy between man and machine, making the driving experience more personal and enjoyable.

In conclusion, the collaboration between electronic musicians and car manufacturers is reshaping the sound of cars for the better. By incorporating innovative sound design techniques and technologies, cars are becoming more human-centric and creating a harmonious relationship between man and machine. This techno-inspired evolution is not only transforming the auditory experience of driving but also contributing to the overall improvement of urban spaces.

FutureCar Staff