Jul 17, 2025

Silent electric motors: advantages, risks, and new solutions for urban mobility

Silent, efficient, and increasingly widespread: electric motors are changing the way we drive, but new solutions are needed to ensure safety for everyone.
electric-car-engines-are-silent
electric-car-engines-are-silent
electric-car-engines-are-silent

Electric motors are changing the way we experience mobility: zero emissions, great efficiency, and, above all, a surprising silence. Just starting an electric car makes one realize the difference: no roar, no vibrations. But this silence, while improving the quality of life in cities, raises important questions about safety and perception.

In this article, we analyze the main advantages of silent electric motors, the risks associated with the lack of noise, and the technological and regulatory solutions, such as the introduction of artificial sounds AVAS, to ensure safer urban mobility for everyone.


The advantages of silent electric motors

1. Comfort and reduction of noise pollution

One of the most immediate benefits is the drastic reduction of urban noise. At low speeds (under 30 km/h), an electric vehicle can be up to 4-5 decibels quieter than a combustion car. During deceleration, thanks to regenerative braking, the sound level drops even further by 2-4 dB(A). Every reduction of 3 dB halves the intensity of the perceived noise.

In urban areas, the adoption of electric fleets can significantly reduce traffic noise, improving the quality of the environment.


2. Improved psychological and physical well-being

  • Less stress and fatigue for drivers

  • Higher quality of sleep in residential areas

  • Absence of vibrations, for a smoother and more relaxing drive



3. Simplified maintenance and reduced costs

Electric motors have far fewer moving parts: 20-25 compared to the 200-2,000 of a thermal engine. This translates into:

  • Up to 40% savings on maintenance costs

  • No oil changes

  • Less brake wear

4. Greater energy efficiency

The "tank-to-wheel" efficiency of EVs can reach 80%, compared to 15-20% of combustion engines. The energy consumption is significantly lower: 38 MJ per 100 km compared to 142 MJ of a traditional vehicle.


5. Perfect for autonomous driving

  • Electric motors managed by precision electronics, ideal for ADAS and self-driving systems

  • Energy savings of up to 17.5% with “in-wheel” motors

  • Ability to customize internal noise for an optimal acoustic experience

driving-silent-electric-car


When silence becomes a problem

1. Risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable users

According to the NHTSA, the risk of collision with EVs and hybrids can be up to 37% higher in urban areas, especially for pedestrians and cyclists who do not perceive the vehicle's approach.


2. Difficult perception at low speed

At speeds between 5 and 20 km/h, the sound of an electric vehicle becomes perceptible only between 3.5 and 11 meters away. This poses a risk for:

  • Blind or visually impaired people

  • The elderly and children

  • Distracted pedestrians or in noisy environments


3. Absence of feedback for the driver

The thermal engine provided natural sound signals to understand the state of the vehicle. EVs replace them with synthetic or digital sounds, but the feel can be less intuitive. Some models are starting to introduce artificial internal sounds to improve the perception of driving.


4. Loss of emotional connection

For many enthusiasts, the sound of the engine is part of the car's identity. Manufacturers are investing in sound design to create distinctive and recognizable acoustic experiences.


The regulatory response: AVAS and artificial sounds

What is the AVAS system?

The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System is a mandatory system that emits an artificial sound at low speeds (below 20 or 30 km/h) to signal the presence of the vehicle.

  • Mandatory in the EU since 2019, in the USA, Japan, and, starting in 2025, in Australia

  • The sound must have an intensity between 56 and 75 dB(A), sufficient to be perceived but not disturbing

  • It automatically activates during slow maneuvers and reversing


The future of sound design

  • BMW collaborates with Hans Zimmer for immersive sounds

  • Nissan Leaf has developed “Canto”, a futuristic and harmonious sound

  • Sounds may vary based on driving mode or the presence of pedestrians

Impact on urban and business mobility

New urban perspectives

  • Smoother integration between vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians

  • Quieter and more livable restricted traffic zones

  • New standards for acoustic design of cities

Benefits for corporate fleets

  • Greater comfort for drivers, especially on long trips

  • More sustainable corporate image

  • Lower impact in sensitive areas: hospitals, schools, historic centers


FAQ: All about silent electric motors

Do electric motors make noise?

Only a slight aerodynamic whoosh and the noise of the tires. They are extremely quiet.

Can silence be dangerous?

Yes, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. That’s why AVAS is mandatory.

Can you choose the sound of your EV?

Some brands allow sound customization, while others offer predefined sounds.

Does artificial noise consume battery?

The energy absorption is minimal, it does not affect the range.

Do electric motorcycles also need to emit sounds?

Yes, they follow similar regulations to electric cars.


Silent electric motors represent a breakthrough for efficiency and comfort. However, they pose new challenges in terms of urban safety. The introduction of intelligent artificial sounds—discreet but effective—will be crucial for sustainable, safe, and accessible mobility for everyone. The future will be silent, but not mute: it will be sonorous, aware, and human.

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