Exploring realistic vehicle acceleration sounds through discomfort index analysis

Contemporary Japanese society's heavy reliance on automobiles is shifting from transportation to leisure, amidst rising environmental concerns over emissions. This has led to a pivot towards eco-friendly options, notably clean diesel vehicles (DVs) and electric vehicles (EVs), due to Europe's stringent regulations. DVs aim to lower harmful emissions, while EVs are favored for their minimal emissions and silent operation. However, EVs' lack of audible acceleration noise poses safety risks, as drivers may struggle to perceive speed changes. The study investigated how deviations in expected engine sounds impact perceived sound quality and vehicle performance assessment, focusing on DV and EV acceleration sounds. It explored the integration of certain sensations (rumbling, booming, humming) into EV sounds to enhance realism, assessing comfort levels among drivers with varying experience.