Brose, a German automotive supplier, has developed an innovative acoustic warning system designed for electrified vehicles. This new system aims to address the safety concerns associated with the near-silent operation of electric and hybrid vehicles, which can pose risks to pedestrians and cyclists.
The acoustic warning system is engineered to produce artificial sounds that mimic traditional internal combustion engine noises, ensuring that electrified vehicles are audible to pedestrians, especially in urban environments. This initiative aligns with the increasing global regulations that mandate the implementation of such systems to enhance road safety.
Martin Hettich, Chief Technology Officer at Brose, emphasized the importance of this development. “Electric and hybrid vehicles are significantly quieter than their gasoline counterparts, which presents a unique safety challenge. Our acoustic warning system is designed to alert pedestrians and cyclists of an approaching vehicle, thereby reducing the risk of accidents,” he explained.
Brose’s system is not only compliant with current safety regulations but also customizable. Vehicle manufacturers can tailor the sound characteristics to align with their brand identity, offering a unique auditory signature for each model. This customization capability allows automakers to maintain brand consistency while enhancing safety.
The technology integrates seamlessly into the vehicle’s existing electronic architecture. It activates at low speeds, typically below 30 kilometers per hour, where the risk to pedestrians is highest due to the reduced ambient noise. The system automatically adjusts the sound level based on the vehicle’s speed and environmental noise, ensuring it is effective without being intrusive.
Brose’s acoustic warning system has already undergone extensive testing and validation. Prototypes have been trialed in various urban scenarios to fine-tune the sound levels and frequency to ensure optimal performance. The feedback from these trials has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the system’s effectiveness in enhancing pedestrian awareness without contributing to noise pollution.
In addition to its primary function, Brose’s system includes advanced features such as directional sound emission. This technology directs the sound toward the path of the vehicle, improving its audibility to those in its immediate vicinity. This feature is particularly useful in complex urban environments where background noise levels can vary significantly.
The development of this acoustic warning system underscores Brose’s commitment to innovation and safety in the evolving automotive landscape. As electric and hybrid vehicles continue to gain popularity, such advancements are crucial in addressing new safety challenges.
Brose is currently in discussions with several leading automakers to integrate the acoustic warning system into their upcoming electric and hybrid models. The company anticipates that the first vehicles equipped with this system will hit the roads within the next two years.
This new development by Brose not only enhances pedestrian safety but also demonstrates the company’s proactive approach in adapting to the changing dynamics of the automotive industry. With regulations becoming increasingly stringent, Brose’s acoustic warning system is set to play a vital role in the future of electrified vehicle safety.
