Zimmer (right) and Vitale at work.
MUNICH: With electric cars running silently by default, it's essential to create synthetic sounds in the interest of public safety. The sounds also add emotionality to the driving experience.
With that in mind, BMW has roped in Hollywood soundtrack composer Hans Zimmer for the job. Together with BMW Group sound designer Renzo Vitale, he has created the sound for the BMW Vision M NEXT, which had its world premiere today. The Vision M NEXT coupe, inspired by the i8 plug-in hybrid, offers a glimpse at the electrified future of the BMW M brand.
Zimmer and Vitale composed the drive sounds and sound signs for the electric car at Zimmer’s studios in London and Los Angeles.
“When the driver interacts with the accelerator pedal it is not only a mechanical touchpoint but also a performative element," said Zimmer. "Accelerating becomes an experience during which the driver moves through a series of gradually morphing sound textures.”
The German car maker aims to market such synthetic sounds under the brand name "BMW IconicSounds Electric" for future electrified vehicles.
“We want to get BMW IconicSounds Electric in position for customers who value emotional sound. With BMW IconicSounds Electric they will be able to experience the joy of driving with all their senses", said BMW Brand senior vice president Jens Thiemer. "The sound of the BMW Vision M NEXT gives a glimpse into the future of BMW IconicSounds Electric."
BMW has been developing sound for electric mobility for 10 years now.
In 2009, with the introduction of the MINI E test fleet, BMW acoustic engineers were already working on artificially generated sound, which was intended to contribute to the better perceptibility of vehicles with barely audible drivetrains. Since the launch of the BMW i3, customers have been able to choose acoustic pedestrian protection as optional equipment.
The sound of the acoustic pedestrian protection has since been further developed in line with new legislative requirements and is now gradually being rolled out as standard in all plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles from BMW (requirements for acoustic pedestrian protection as well as operating times vary worldwide).
