Our vroom addiction is making even EVs noisy

Source: The post is based on the article “Our vroom addiction is making even EVs noisy” published in Live Mint on 13^th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Environment – Noise Pollution

Relevance: concerns with artificial sounds in electric vehicles (EVs)

News: The internal combustion engine (ICE) is being phased out due to its environmental impact, and electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular. However, some people miss the noise of an ICE engine.

What steps are the electric vehicle manufacturer taking to tackle this concern?

EV manufacturers are offering artificial sound effects that mimic the sound of an ICE engine in order to fulfil the demand of customers.

They are even involving noted musicians to create satisfying sounds for EVs.

People who like the idea of artificial EV sounds argue that it can make these quiet cars safer for people who walk on the road, especially in places like India where people often walk on roads.

However, while the wide choice of fake engine sounds for EVs is a sign of the market’s evolution, it also means that any vehicle can adopt the sound of any other. This could lead to a loss of exclusivity.

What should be done going ahead?

Instead of trying to give customers what they want, EV manufacturers should focus on reducing noise levels. This is because streets are already too noisy in India, and artificial engine sounds could make the problem worse.

In this regard, Henry Ford’s statement is noteworthy. He said that if he had asked people what they wanted, he would be trying to make a better horse. This suggests that asking customers what they want can lead to limited innovation.