Stellantis To Use Patented Vibration System To Simulate ICE Vehicles On EVs
Trying To Bridge The Gap Between ICE and EV Driving Experience...
Stellantis continues to bridge the gap between traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles and the next generation of electric vehicles (EVs). With gimmicks like Dodge’s Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust and eRupt multi-speed transmission, both of which are scheduled to debut in the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona, they are trying to convince the public that EVs can be just as thrilling as their ICE counterparts. However, a patent filed last year by Stellantis suggests that the automaker is looking to go above and beyond to have EVs simulate ICE vehicles.
A patent filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reveals a new Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) system that aims to blur the lines between EVs and traditional ICE vehicles, providing drivers with an immersive driving experience unlike any other.
The ASE system is at the forefront of Stellantis’ mission to make EVs more appealing and accessible to a broader audience. It addresses a common concern with EVs: their near-silent operation, which can pose safety challenges for pedestrians. To overcome this, Stellantis engineers have developed a system that not only replicates the authentic engine sounds of ICE vehicles but also simulates the tactile sensations of driving one.
At its core, the ASE system utilizes a sophisticated setup that combines sensor technology with advanced signal processing. Sensors strategically placed throughout the vehicle monitor various parameters such as motor speed, acceleration, wheel speed, and torque. This real-time data is then fed to a central controller, which orchestrates the generation of engine sounds tailored to the driving conditions.
However, Stellantis goes beyond just recreating sound. They recognize that the driving experience is multi-sensory, which is why they’ve integrated the Active Vibration Enhancement (AVE) system alongside ASE. AVE complements ASE by generating vibrations within the vehicle’s structure that mimic those produced by an ICE engine. These vibrations, transmitted through the vehicle body to the occupants, create a sensation akin to driving a traditional sports/muscle car.
The AVE system employs a force generator coupled to the vehicle’s body or chassis, capable of focusing vibrations to specific points within the vehicle such as the steering wheel and driver’s seat. This level of customization ensures a seamless and immersive driving experience, particularly for enthusiasts accustomed to the visceral sensations of ICE vehicles.
Moreover, Stellantis acknowledges that traditional “muscle cars” or “high-performance” vehicles may no longer have their characteristic exhaust sounds in an electric future. Additionally, current sound simulation systems may feel unnatural due to the lack of tactile feedback experienced with ICE engines.
By incorporating ASE and AVE systems into their EVs, Stellantis aims to offer consumers the best of both worlds: the environmental benefits of electric propulsion combined with the thrilling driving experience of a traditional sports car. Furthermore, these technologies could potentially improve safety by alerting pedestrians and cyclists to the presence of EVs in low-speed environments.
So, can Stellantis deliver a parallel driving experience to a traditional ICE vehicle? It remains to be seen.
But what do you think about all of these new gimmicks to blur the lines between EV and traditional ICE vehicles? Is it enough to sway you to transition to an EV? Leave your comments below.
Source: WIPO
6 replies
Loading new replies...
Join the full discussion at the Mopar Insiders Forum →