Experimental Determination of the Masking Threshold in Electric Trucks

The present study examines the masking effects of interior noise in electric trucks and its impact on the driver’s capability to perceive tonalsounds at variable frequencies and amplitudes. Noise inside the electric truck is basically driven by wind and tire sounds that mask the perceptionof other significant auditory signals. Controlled listening tests were used in this work to measure masking thresholds of various frequencies in anelectric truck cabin under different driving conditions. The methodology includes recording interior sound environments, simulating typical drivingspeeds, and measuring the ability of participants to detect tonal signals in background noise. The results provide a basis for discussion and interioracoustic challenges of electric trucks while extending the current knowledge on how noise environments in these vehicles would affect thedrivers’ perception. The research is especially important to develop sound design strategies that assure safety and comfort for electric trucks.