Ferrari is reportedly exploring the possibility of sound generators for future EVs.
It's sad to say that the V-8 and V-12 yelps will no longer be associated with the modern Ferrari. But as some governments push for a ban on internal combustion engines, automakers, including exotic brands like Ferrari, are planning to switch their lineups to electric vehicles.
EVs have proven to be fast, and drawbacks such as weight and slow charging times should improve with time. However, part of the appeal of a Ferrari is the sound of its engine, which is no match for a quiet-running EV.
To get around this problem, automakers are adding sound generators to EVs, in some cases to alert pedestrians and the visually impaired that a vehicle is approaching. Ferrari is also researching such a solution, as evidenced by a patent the company filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
The patent, discovered last week by Car Buzz, describes a means of amplifying sound from the electric powertrain and channeling it from the rear of the vehicle. The proposed system works by measuring the resonance frequencies of key components of the drivetrain, such as the motor and transmission, as well as the differential and wheels. The frequencies are then amplified and regenerated, with the intensity determined by the rotational speed of the motor.
Dodge has developed a similar system called Fratzonic for its upcoming EVs teased in the Charger Daytona SRT and Charger Daytona SRT Banshee concepts. Other automakers have even hired composers to develop sounds for EVs.
Ferrari is well aware of the importance of the sounds its cars produce. In a presentation to investors last June, CEO Benedetto Vigna said that sound is one of the "essences that characterize Ferrari." He also said that each Ferrari engine has its own distinctive sound and that he expects Ferrari's electric cars to have their own unique sound.
Ferrari's first EV is scheduled for 2025 and is said to be an SUV.