Automakers developing electric vehicles (EVs) are grappling with the question of how to replace the emotional connection created by the sound of a powerful internal combustion engine. Hyundai, Porsche, BMW and others have turned to synthesized engine sounds played through speakers. At Bentley, however, they believe this is hunting for the wrong answer. Rather than trying to replicate the sound of an actual engine, the British luxury brand thinks a drummer could be key to creating a special feel in their first electric vehicle.
Bentley is calling the soundtrack for its upcoming all-electric SUV Torcal “Bentley Dynamic Symphony.” Unlike many rivals, the company insists, the aim is not to trick drivers into thinking they’re behind the wheel of a V8 model. Instead, they say the task was to capture the same emotional response that has defined their classic-engined cars for decades.
More than just the engine sound
The thinking behind this choice might make more sense than it first appears. Bentley engineers recorded and analyzed their iconic V8 engine in the studio. In the end, they concluded that it is not the exhaust note itself that makes it special, but its rhythm. This led to the setup of the experiment with two parabolic speakers. Recordings of the V8 engine were played from one, while the drummer played live through the other. Walking between the two sound sources, the engineers discovered striking similarities in cadence, energy and emotional impact. They also concluded that the subtle imperfections common to both drumming and the operation of an internal combustion engine help create a more authentic, human experience. Armed with this knowledge, Bentley did not go down the path of digital recreation of engine sound.
This approach is part of a broader trend in which automakers are seeking a new sonic identity for the electric era. It’s not just about branding, but also about responding to safety regulations. Because of their silence at low speeds, electric vehicles pose a risk to pedestrians. Therefore, regulations in the European Union and the USA mandate the installation of an audible vehicle warning system (AVAS). These systems require the EV to emit sound at speeds of up to 20 or 30 km/h, and the sound must reflect the vehicle’s behavior, such as acceleration and deceleration.
Strings instead of cylinders
In the next phase, Bentley hired musicians to compose an original soundtrack using real instruments, including drums, viola and bass guitar. The resulting sound responds to the driver’s pressure on the gas pedal, waxing and waning with acceleration, aiming to deliver the same sense of solemnity that customers expect from a V8-powered model. The company says that the tempo of the music increases when accelerating and calms down when the driver lets off the gas. We have seen a similar approach with other brands. BMW, for example, collaborated with Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, while Mercedes-AMG worked with musician will.i.am on an interactive music experience.
It’s hard to say how successful Bentley’s approach will be, but there’s no denying that the sound it creates will be unique. Maybe it will appeal to the taste of wealthy customers who like symphonic music, and maybe the notes will sound off. Only time will tell. In any case, the soundtrack is just one piece of the bigger puzzle that Bentley is putting together for its first EV, which will debut on September 23rd in London.
