Are We Afraid of Quiet Engines?

Fake Engine Noise

For the last several decades, a loud roar was the sign that a car was powerful, fast, and impressive. Many people have even added mufflers to cheaper cars attempting to mimic the loud engine of a more expensive car. Technology has progressed to the point where we are able to make powerful, efficient engines that are very quiet. But because of the history of the classic roar, carmakers are adding the sound in artificially. So what’s up with this fake engine noise?

What should be an impressive accomplishment has car makers worried that drivers would be disappointed. Engines today are working so efficiently and are so awesome, that they can deliver the same amount of power as older engines without producing the noises that we have become so accustomed to hearing. So, why does it seem that powerful engines still make quite a bit of sound?

Because car companies are afraid that buyers will avoid a quiet engine, mistaking it’s quietness for a lack of power. Many trucks, SUVs and other muscle cars are built with new technology in their engines that make them run more quietly along with their other benefits of better fuel economy. However, car companies have taken the measures to avoid the stigma of having less power by adding artificial sound. By adding sound, the driver may feel that the engine is stronger.

There are situations where fake engine noise serves an important purpose. Electric cars, for example, can run so quietly that a pedestrian might not have a chance to get out the way. This can be especially important for blind pedestrians that are looking for vehicle’s auditory clues. However, most of the time, it seems that cars are using the fake engine noise to bring up memories of the powerful engines of the past that have created such impressive legacies in the minds of their drivers.

While the sound does not affect the safety or power of the cars being built, it might be time for a change. Should car companies stop adding the extra noise, or does the harmless noise give enough of a benefit emotionally that it’s worth keeping around?