December 12, 2024
Why do electric cars make noise?
If you have an electric car, then you will be familiar with this slightly annoying noise when driving slowly. And if not, then you may have come across a strangely beeping vehicle that has slowly whizzed past you. Perhaps you have then asked yourself what this is actually about. And why electric cars have to start annoying you now. That's exactly what we want to find out now!
Silent danger: electric vehicles that are too quiet are the cause of accidents
The thing is, you simply can't hear a car that is too quiet. And that can be dangerous. Especially for those who rely on sound to move safely in traffic, such as blind or visually impaired people. But a silent approaching vehicle can also be dangerous for everyone else. Because what we don't hear, we often don't pay attention to. Sometimes with fatal consequences for life and limb.
Mandatory noises by law: sound for safety
In order to prevent accidents caused by electric vehicles that are too quiet, the EU decided in 2014 to introduce so-called mandatory sounds. Since 2021, manufacturers of electric vehicles have been required by law to install so-called "Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS)" in their vehicles. These are small sound modules with loudspeakers that automatically start up at speeds of up to 20 km/h and emit warning sounds.
The type of sound varies depending on the model and manufacturer. Some invest in melodious sounds with Hans Zimmer's signature. And some others are content with a simple beep or mundane engine noises. Which also serves its purpose. As long as you can hear it.
A little ARI sound lore: Who's beeping?
What does ARI sound like? Is it beeping or is it humming? Well, both. Some beep, some hum. And some beep AND hum.
The ARI 458, one of the most popular vans from ARI Motors, only beeps when reversing. When it drives forwards, its integrated sound module simulates engine noises. But only up to 20 km/h. After that, the electric motor gets a little louder by itself and the rolling noises also increase. And then the AVAS stops working again and a pleasant silence sets in.
The two-seater electric flea ARI 902, on the other hand, is clearly part of the beeping team. Both when driving forwards and in reverse. Sure, that's not everyone's cup of tea, but firstly, you can select a different sound if necessary and secondly, it doesn't beep all the time. Again, it only beeps up to 20 km/h. After that, the beeping stops. At least until the next time you park.
The ARI 901 electric van also likes to beep. That's why it beeps when driving off as well as when reversing and parking. Safe is safe. After all, even the most beautiful municipal orange cannot be heard.
And to ensure that nothing goes wrong when reversing into a parking space, the ARI 901 also has a reversing camera. Just like its smaller colleagues, by the way.
This means that all ARI electric vehicles are just as quiet and completely safe to do their thing safely.
Conclusion: Better beep than loud
So, the next time such a noisy vehicle passes you by or comes out of your garage, thank it in silence and be glad that it is so quiet that it has to beep.
