Why Do Electric Cars Make Noise?
2 Answers
The vast majority of pure electric vehicles produce a peculiar "whirring" sound when driving at very low speeds. This sound is completely inaudible inside the car and can only be heard outside, particularly near the front of the vehicle. As soon as the speed increases, this sound immediately disappears. Source of the Sound: In reality, this sound is not from the motor but is artificially generated. The sound does not originate from the motor itself but is emitted by a dedicated speaker. This sound is called the Low-Speed Warning Tone. Currently, the Low-Speed Warning Tone is a national standard in the pure electric vehicle industry, and almost all pure electric vehicles are required to emit this warning sound when driving at low speeds. Features of Pure Electric Vehicles: Environmentally Friendly: Electric vehicles use power battery packs and motors for propulsion, producing no exhaust emissions or tailpipe pollution during operation. This is highly beneficial for environmental protection and air cleanliness, making them almost "zero pollution." Low Noise: Electric vehicles do not generate noise like conventional cars, and the noise they produce is almost negligible. Economical: The operating cost of electric vehicles is low, approximately one-fifth that of gasoline-powered cars. They also have high energy conversion efficiency and can recover energy during braking and downhill driving, improving energy utilization efficiency. Charging during nighttime using the grid's cheap "off-peak electricity" helps balance peak and off-peak grid demand. Easy Maintenance: Electric vehicles are powered by motors and batteries, eliminating the need for the cumbersome maintenance tasks associated with traditional engines, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and belt adjustments. Electric vehicles only require periodic checks of the motor and battery components.
The car suddenly makes noise, and I've encountered this issue several times. The most common cause is tire problems, such as foreign objects on the tire or bulges, which create a humming sound when driving. Next, the engine should not be underestimated; a loose belt or a damaged bearing can produce squeaking sounds, especially during acceleration. Then there's the braking system—if the brake pads are worn thin or the calipers on the wheels are loose, you'll hear a sharp noise when braking. The suspension system is also often problematic; if the shock absorbers or the rubber bushings of the lower control arms age, you'll hear a thud when driving over bumps. As for the interior, an improperly closed door or loose metal parts in the seat can also cause strange noises. I think the most important thing is not to ignore any noise the car makes. First, pull over to a safe spot and check the tires and chassis. If in doubt, drive directly to a professional auto shop for diagnosis to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Developing regular inspection habits, such as having a technician glance at key components during every oil change, can prevent many such issues.
