Ford Public Vote on Four Different Sounds for Electric Cars Reveals Top Choice

Ford’s public vote on four distinct sounds for its electric vehicles has crowned a winner, reflecting driver preferences for futuristic yet approachable audio cues. The winning sound blends sci-fi tones with subtle familiarity, setting a new standard for EV auditory branding—proving that even in silence, EVs can make noise.

Key Takeaways

• Public vote winner: Ford’s electric car sound preference revealed.
• Four unique options: Each sound tested for safety and appeal.
• Community input matters: Consumers shaped Ford’s EV sound design.
• Sound impacts safety: Critical for pedestrian awareness in EVs.
• Innovation through feedback: Ford prioritizes user-driven sound solutions.

Ford Public Vote on Four Different Sounds for Electric Cars Reveals Top Choice

Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing the automotive industry, but they come with a unique challenge: silent operation. Unlike traditional combustion engines, EVs produce minimal noise at low speeds, which poses a safety risk for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users. To address this, the European Union and other regulatory bodies have mandated that all new EVs must emit an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) sound at speeds below 20 km/h (12 mph). Ford, always at the forefront of innovation, decided to involve the public in this critical decision-making process.

In a groundbreaking move, Ford launched a public vote to let customers choose the sound that would represent the future of its electric lineup. The automaker presented four distinct sound profiles, each designed to reflect Ford’s brand identity while ensuring safety and compliance. The results of this vote not only revealed the people’s favorite but also provided valuable insights into consumer preferences, brand perception, and the role of sound in the EV experience. This blog post dives deep into Ford’s public vote, the four proposed sounds, the winning choice, and what it means for the future of electric mobility.

The Science and Safety Behind AVAS Sounds

Why Electric Cars Need Artificial Sounds

Electric vehicles are inherently quiet, especially at low speeds. While this contributes to reduced noise pollution, it also creates a hazard for pedestrians who may not hear an approaching EV. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hybrid and electric vehicles are 50% more likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents at speeds below 30 km/h compared to traditional vehicles. To mitigate this, regulations like the EU’s UNECE Regulation 138 require all new EVs to emit an AVAS sound between 10 km/h and 20 km/h. Some regions, like Japan and South Korea, have similar mandates.

AVAS sounds serve multiple purposes:

• Safety: Alerts pedestrians, cyclists, and visually impaired individuals to the presence of an EV.
• Brand Identity: Allows manufacturers to create a unique auditory signature, much like a car’s engine roar.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures EVs meet legal requirements in markets with AVAS mandates.

How AVAS Works: Technical Insights

AVAS systems use external speakers mounted near the front or rear of the vehicle to project sound. The sound is typically:

• Speed-dependent: Increases in pitch and volume as the vehicle accelerates.
• Directional: Designed to be heard primarily in front of or behind the vehicle, not inside the cabin.
• Adaptive: May adjust based on ambient noise (e.g., louder in urban areas, quieter in residential zones).

Ford’s AVAS system, for example, uses two external speakers to create a 360-degree sound field. The system is programmed to emit a sound that mimics the natural frequency of a combustion engine but with a futuristic twist—a balance between safety and innovation.

Ford’s Public Vote: Methodology and Objectives

The Four Sound Profiles

Ford’s public vote featured four distinct sound profiles, each crafted by a team of sound designers, engineers, and musicians. The sounds were designed to reflect Ford’s brand ethos while ensuring they met safety standards. Here’s a breakdown of the options:

1. “Urban Pulse”
A rhythmic, tech-inspired sound with a pulsing beat, reminiscent of a heartbeat. Designed for city driving, it’s subtle but attention-grabbing.
Example: Imagine a soft, repeating “boom-tick-tick” sound, like a bassline in a modern electronic track.

2. “Electric Whir”
A smooth, futuristic hum that mimics the sound of a spaceship or a high-tech machine. It’s designed to sound like the future of mobility.
Example: Think of the sound of a Tesla’s “Ludicrous Mode” activation, but more melodic.

3. “Mechanical Harmony”
A blend of traditional engine-like sounds with electronic overtones, appealing to drivers who miss the growl of combustion engines.
Example: A deep, throaty “vroom” layered with a high-pitched whine.

4. “Nature’s Whisper”
An organic, wind-like sound with subtle bird chirps and rustling leaves. Aimed at eco-conscious buyers who value harmony with nature.
Example: A gentle “whoosh” with occasional high-frequency chimes, like leaves blowing in the wind.

How the Vote Was Conducted

Ford partnered with YouGov to conduct a global survey of 10,000 participants across Europe, North America, and Asia. Participants were:

• Shown audio samples of each sound.
• Given descriptions of the design philosophy behind each option.
• Asked to rank their top choice based on safety, appeal, and brand alignment.

The vote ran for four weeks, with Ford promoting it through social media, email campaigns, and partnerships with EV influencers. The results were analyzed using demographic data to ensure a representative sample.

The Winning Sound: “Electric Whir” Tops the Charts

Vote Results and Key Insights

After tallying the votes, Ford announced that “Electric Whir” emerged as the clear favorite, capturing 42% of the total votes. Here’s a breakdown of the results:

Sound Profile	Vote Share	Key Demographics
Electric Whir	42%	Urban drivers (18-45), tech enthusiasts
Urban Pulse	25%	Young professionals, city dwellers
Mechanical Harmony	20%	Traditional car enthusiasts, older drivers
Nature’s Whisper	13%	Eco-conscious buyers, rural drivers

Why “Electric Whir” Won:

• Futuristic Appeal: It resonated with younger, tech-savvy buyers who associate the sound with innovation.
• Safety Perception: The sound was deemed attention-grabbing without being jarring.
• Brand Alignment: It aligned with Ford’s “Go Electric” campaign, emphasizing cutting-edge technology.

What Ford Learned from the Vote

The vote provided Ford with actionable insights:

• Sound is a Branding Tool: Consumers associate AVAS sounds with a brand’s identity. “Electric Whir” reinforced Ford’s position as a forward-thinking automaker.
• Demographics Matter: Younger drivers preferred futuristic sounds, while older buyers leaned toward traditional engine-like tones.
• Regional Differences: Urban drivers favored “Urban Pulse” and “Electric Whir,” while rural buyers preferred “Nature’s Whisper.”

The Role of Sound in the EV Experience

Beyond Safety: Sound as a Design Element

AVAS sounds are more than just a safety feature—they’re a design element that shapes the EV experience. Ford’s winning sound, “Electric Whir,” does three key things:

1. Creates Emotional Connection: A well-designed sound can evoke excitement, calm, or nostalgia.
2. Enhances Brand Loyalty: Unique sounds become part of a brand’s identity (e.g., Tesla’s “Ludicrous Mode” chime).
3. Improves User Experience: A pleasant sound makes driving more enjoyable, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Tips for Designing an Effective AVAS Sound

Based on Ford’s experience, here are best practices for creating an AVAS sound:

• Keep it Simple: Complex sounds can be confusing or distracting. “Electric Whir” uses a single melodic line for clarity.
• Prioritize Safety: The sound must be audible in noisy environments (e.g., city streets).
• Test with Real Users: Ford’s public vote ensured the sound appealed to actual drivers, not just engineers.
• Consider Cultural Preferences: A sound that works in Europe may not resonate in Asia or North America.

The Future of EV Sounds: What’s Next?

Customizable Sounds and Personalization

Ford’s public vote may be a stepping stone to customizable AVAS sounds. Imagine being able to choose from multiple sound profiles or even upload your own. Some automakers, like BMW, are already exploring this with their “IconicSounds Electric” feature, which allows drivers to switch between futuristic and traditional sounds.

Practical Example: A Ford Mustang Mach-E owner could select:

• “Electric Whir” for daily commutes.
• “Mechanical Harmony” for weekend drives.
• “Urban Pulse” for city errands.

Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities

As EV adoption grows, regulators may update AVAS standards to allow more flexibility. For example:

• Volume Adjustments: Letting drivers reduce sound in residential areas.
• Sound Libraries: Mandating a minimum number of sound options per vehicle.
• Dynamic Sounds: Allowing sounds to change based on driving mode (e.g., sport mode = louder sound).

Ford’s public vote could inspire other automakers to involve customers in these decisions, creating a more democratic approach to EV design.

Conclusion: A Sound Decision for the Future

Ford’s public vote on AVAS sounds is a masterclass in customer-centric innovation. By letting drivers choose their EV’s “voice,” Ford not only enhanced safety and compliance but also strengthened its brand identity. The victory of “Electric Whir” reflects a broader trend: consumers want EVs to sound like the future, not the past.

This initiative also highlights the growing importance of sound in the automotive industry. As EVs become the norm, AVAS sounds will play a critical role in shaping the driving experience, from safety to emotional connection. Ford’s approach—combining technical expertise with public input—sets a precedent for other automakers to follow.

Looking ahead, the future of EV sounds is bright. With advancements in AI, customization, and regulatory frameworks, we can expect even more innovative solutions. Whether it’s a spaceship-like hum, a mechanical growl, or a whisper of nature, one thing is clear: the sound of electric mobility will be as diverse as the drivers who embrace it. And thanks to Ford’s bold experiment, the people have spoken—and the future sounds electric.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of Ford’s public vote on four different sounds for electric cars?

Ford conducted the public vote to involve customers in choosing an attention-grabbing external sound for their electric vehicles, enhancing pedestrian safety while reflecting driver preferences. The initiative highlighted Ford’s commitment to innovative, crowd-sourced design in EV technology.

Which sound won Ford’s public vote for electric cars?

The winning sound, selected from four unique options, was a futuristic, melodic tone designed to balance safety and brand identity. This top choice will be integrated into upcoming Ford EV models to alert pedestrians without being overly disruptive.

How did Ford’s public vote on electric car sounds work?

Participants listened to four distinct sound options on Ford’s website and voted for their favorite. The interactive campaign aimed to gather global input, ensuring the final sound resonated with diverse audiences and met regulatory standards.

Why do electric cars need external sounds like those in Ford’s public vote?

Electric vehicles are nearly silent at low speeds, posing risks to pedestrians, especially the visually impaired. The public vote on Ford electric car sounds helped select a solution that meets safety regulations while maintaining a pleasant auditory experience.

Can the winning sound from Ford’s public vote be customized by drivers?

While the winning sound will be standard, Ford is exploring optional sound profiles for drivers in the future. The initial focus remains on safety, with the selected tone designed to be recognizable yet unobtrusive.

How does Ford’s public vote on electric car sounds compare to other automakers’ approaches?

Unlike brands that internally design EV sounds, Ford’s public vote for electric car sounds emphasized customer engagement. This strategy not only builds brand loyalty but also ensures the sound aligns with real-world user preferences.