Ford Puma Gen-E: Roller coaster inspires electric car sound

Image: Ford

Ford has developed a unique acoustic signature for the all-electric Puma Gen-E, inspired by an amusement park. The sounds of a rollercoaster form the basis for the electric vehicle’s distinctive sound, according to the developers. This sound design aims to combine familiar vehicle noises with “exciting” and futuristic elements.

Since July 2021, all new electric vehicles in Europe must be equipped with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS). This system generates acoustic warning signals at low speeds to protect pedestrians. Ford uses this legal requirement as a basis to give the Puma Gen-E an additional distinct acoustic identity.

According to the company, the idea for this unusual sound came after a suggestion from Dieter Leffers, Ford’s Chief Engineer for Product Development in Europe. As a result, sound engineer Christian Störig visited an amusement park during a family outing and recorded various noises from a roller coaster. These included the whistling of the electric motor as it climbed, the hissing and clicking of pneumatic brakes, as well as deep electromagnetic pulses when the wheels locked onto the track.

In the Ford Sound Lab, Störig processed the recordings together with musicians and experts in sound production. The team combined roller coaster noises with traditional soundscapes from internal combustion engines and experimented with futuristic sounds reminiscent of science-fiction films like “Blade Runner.” Additionally, insights from focus groups were incorporated into the development. The goal, according to the statement, was to create a balanced mix of familiar vehicle sounds and exciting auditory elements.

After development in the sound laboratory, the new acoustic signature was tested in the Noise, Vibration and Harshness Labs as well as in the simulator laboratory. Audio mixes underwent a testing and optimization process under various conditions, some of which took place at Ford’s facility in Köln-Merkenich. The goal is to give the Puma Gen-E its own distinct character, provide valuable acoustic feedback, and shape the driving experience.

With the Puma Gen-E, Ford does not consider the development of distinctive vehicle sounds to be complete. The created sound elements are set to be further developed and refined for the entire model range. Additionally, Christian Störig aims to develop a unique Ford rally sound for new cars inspired by rally racing that customers can instantly recognize.

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About the Author

Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.

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