To improve safety, Volvo Trucks has developed an acoustic warning system with unique sounds for its electric vehicles. The Volvo-designed alarm increases safety by making pedestrians, cyclists and other road users aware of approaching trucks, which would otherwise be virtually silent. At the same time, the sounds are designed to be pleasant and unobtrusive, both for the driver and others around. From 1 July 2021, all electric vehicles in the EU must produce a certain noise level at speeds below and up to 20 km/h.
“We are very happy with this new legislation. As children, we learned to trust not only what we see, but also what we hear in traffic - sometimes so much so that we don't even look before crossing a street! With our new warning system, we want to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists notice that they are coming close to our electric trucks.”
The required sound level depends on the speed and increases as the speed increases. At a speed of up to 20 km/h, this must be at least 56 decibels. If the vehicle is too quiet, an External Acoustic Vehicle Warning System (AVAS) should be added. To meet the new requirements while maintaining the benefits of lower noise levels from electric vehicles, Volvo Trucks has developed a unique set of premium sounds for its electric truck models. The set of sounds is the result of thorough research and various tests by Volvo Group's own acoustic experts. Despite the addition of sounds, the trucks will still be much quieter than conventional trucks.
“We are extremely proud to have developed high-quality premium sounds that are noticeable enough to warn people close to the truck, yet pleasant to the driver and other road users.”
Four different sounds
The audible warning system for electric trucks consists of four different sounds that inform what the truck is doing: driving forward, idling, and reversing. Sounds vary in intensity depending on the speed of the truck and will change in frequency during acceleration and deceleration. With the recently announced start of sales of three new heavy-duty electric vehicles – the Volvo FH, FM and FMX – Volvo Trucks now has an impressive line-up of six medium and heavy-duty electric trucks. This is currently the most complete range of commercial electric trucks in the industry, according to Volvo Trucks.
“The sounds are designed not to penetrate walls. Our electric trucks still ensure quiet nighttime deliveries and contribute to better working conditions for drivers and a quieter, cleaner environment. Electric trucks will become more and more common. We are proud that we can now combine our exciting journey to zero emissions with our long-standing ambition to achieve zero accidents."
Photo above: Volvo Trucks image bank.
Also read: Volvo Trucks starts sales of heavy-duty electric trucks