Why is My EV Making This Noise?

Electric vehicles are notoriously quiet since they do not have engines.

 

However, they are not completely silent. If you have recently purchased an EV, you may be curious about the various noises your car is making – here’s what you should expect, and what you shouldn’t.

 

Rolling Noise

When your car is travelling at a high speed, you may be able to hear the rush of wind resistance against the car’s body, and maybe the tyres against the road.

 

Drivers of ICE vehicles will be unfamiliar to this sound, as usually the engine drowns out the sound. It can take some getting used to, but it is nothing to worry about.

 

Charging Noise

Your car will make a noise when it is charging. You will hear the cooling fan blowing whilst your car is on charge, and it is there to keep the battery and electronics cool whilst you are charging the battery. This can sometimes be accompanied by a gurgling sound. These noises are nothing to be worried about.

 

If you can hear any other noises whilst the car is charging, you should take it to an EV-qualified mechanic to ensure everything is okay.

 

Low Speed Noise

Electric vehicles can be almost silent when travelling at low speeds, which can be dangerous for pedestrians and other road users. Under EU law, all electric vehicles sold in the European Union must make an artificial noise when travelling under 12 miles-per-hour, or while reversing.

 

The noise will sound different depending on the make and model of your EV, but most sound like an internal combustion engine, and you may not be able to hear it clearly from inside the car. But pedestrians and cyclists on the road will be able to hear it and will be a huge help for those who are blind or partially sighted.

 

Acceleration Noise

Some electric cars are fitted with interior sounds to make the driving experience more immersive.

 

For example, some cars when put into sports mode will sound like a sports car as you accelerate. This holds no other function other than simply making the driving experience more enjoyable.

 

Whistling Noise

When travelling at high speeds, you may hear a whistling sound coming from the tyres. This is why it is important to ensure you buy EV friendly tyres.

 

It may also be worth checking your tyre pressure if you notice this whistling sound - you can find the specifications inside your vehicle user guide.

 

Custom Sounds

Some companies offer their drivers to customise the way their electric cars sound. Hyundai offer ‘Active Sound Design’ (ASD) which combines engine sound with virtual sound designed in real time, so that your car can sound exactly how you’d like it.

 

You can choose these sounds, so be sure to try them all out and see which one resonates with you the best.

 

What Should I Do If My EV is Making an Unusual Noise?

If your electric car is making a noise different to the ones listed above, you should get in touch with your local mechanic and have them look. Electric cars are naturally quiet, so any loud bangs, clunking or unusual vibrations may be cause for concern.

You can compare prices of EV qualified garages on our directory and find the garage best suited to you and your car.