Volvo Trucks adds unique sounds to its electric trucks for greater safety

The Volvo-designed signal increases safety by making pedestrians, cyclists and other road users aware of approaching trucks, which would otherwise be virtually silent. At the same time, the sounds are designed to be pleasant and unobtrusive to both the driver and others nearby.

Starting July 1, 2021, all electric vehicles in the EU must produce a certain noise level at speeds below and up to and including 20 mph. The required noise level depends on the speed and gets higher as the speed increases. At speeds up to and including 20 km/h, it must be at least 56 decibels. If the vehicle is too quiet, an external vehicle audible warning system (AVAS) must be added.

To meet the new requirements while maintaining the benefits of lower noise levels from electric vehicles, Volvo Trucks has developed a unique set of premium sounds for its electric truck models.

"We are very pleased with this new legislation. As children, we learned to trust not only what we see, but also what we hear in traffic - sometimes so much so that we don't even look before crossing a street! With our new warning system, we want to make sure pedestrians and cyclists notice when they get close to our electric trucks," explains Anna Wrige Berling, Traffic and Product Safety Director at Volvo Trucks.

Developed by acoustic experts

The set of sounds is the result of thorough research and several tests by Volvo Group's own acoustic experts.

"We are extremely proud to have developed high-quality premium sounds that are noticeable enough to alert people close to the truck and yet pleasant for the driver and other road users," says Anna Wrige Berling.

Despite the addition of noise, the trucks will still be much quieter than conventional trucks.

"The sounds are designed not to penetrate walls. Our electric trucks still provide quiet night deliveries and contribute to better working conditions for drivers and a quieter, cleaner environment," Anna Wrige Berling continued.

Four different sounds

The acoustic warning system for electric trucks consists of four different sounds that inform what the truck is doing: moving forward, idling, reversing. Sounds vary in intensity depending on the speed of the truck and will change in frequency during acceleration and deceleration.

Complete range of electric trucks

With the recently announced start of sales of three new heavy electric vehicles - the Volvo FH, FM and FMX - Volvo Trucks now has an impressive lineup of six medium and heavy-duty electric trucks. This is currently the most complete range of commercial electric trucks in the industry.

"Electric trucks will become increasingly common. We are proud that we can now combine our interesting journey to zero emissions with our long-standing ambition to achieve zero accidents," concludes Anna Wrige Berling.