Harman Amplifies EV Innovation to Meet AVAS Regulations

Here’s a rephrased version of the article with improved logical flow and more conversational language:

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Starting this month, all new electric and hybrid vehicles in the EU with four or more wheels must have an acoustic vehicle alert system (AVAS) installed. This requirement is part of the EU’s ‘Regulation on the Sound Level of Motor Vehicles’ (EU 540/2014) and the EU Requirement ECE R138, aimed at making these quieter cars and trucks more noticeable to pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable groups. The push for these regulations was largely driven by organizations like the European Blind Union, who have been advocating for this change for over a decade.

The rules specify that AVAS should activate at speeds up to 20 km/h and produce a minimum sound level of 56 dB, which is about as loud as an electric toothbrush or a paper shredder. The sound needs to be continuous and responsive to the vehicle’s behavior, changing in pitch and volume to indicate actions like acceleration.

Harman, a subsidiary of Samsung, has been working on its own AVAS since 2009, called the External Electronic Sound Synthesis (EESS), as part of their Halosonic active noise management portfolio. They have been helping car manufacturers get ready for these regulations well ahead of the deadline.

With over 60 years of experience in audio technology, Harman’s EESS uses speakers at the front and rear of the vehicle to emit specific sounds. Sensors for speed and throttle position control the sound’s volume and characteristics to alert pedestrians of the approaching car.

Rajus Augustine, senior director at Harman, pointed out that the increase in hybrid and electric vehicles has significantly heightened the risk to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable groups. Technologies like Halosonic EESS help improve pedestrian awareness in noisy cities.

While not required by EU law, Harman’s system can also provide in-cabin sounds to inform the driver about the vehicle’s status, making for a more connected driving experience. For instance, drivers can hear a welcome sound when the electric motor starts or a shutdown sound when it turns off, offering cues that are otherwise missing in electric vehicles.

Moreover, EESS is adaptable to meet specific customer needs and comply with different regulations, such as those in the USA which require AVAS activation even at speeds up to 30 km/h. Car makers can also work with Harman to create unique sounds that match their brand’s identity, from sporty engine noises to futuristic spaceship-like sounds.

According to Augustine, “Halosonic is proud to help automakers stand out without compromising on pedestrian safety, whether it’s creating a sporty engine sound or a spaceship-like drone.”

The new regulations took effect on July 1, 2019.