Understanding how Porsche engineers perfect the sound design of their vehicles.
Few emblems command as much respect as Porsche. The German heritage brand is known for its relentless pursuit of perfection and Porsche engineers are on a continuous quest to best enhance the entire driving experience. One of the more overlooked parts of the Porsche experience: sound design. The unmistakable roar of a combustion engine 911 is quite different to the Taycan, but no noise is a coincidence—each bit has been considered, studied and tested.
At Porsche, sound isn’t just a byproduct of the engine or battery; it is an integral component of the entire driving experience. Our iconic vehicles are recognized not only by their performance and design but also their distinctive acoustics. Sound evokes emotion and provides feedback to the driver, all while enhancing the overall sensation of driving a Porsche, and the journey of creating this unique soundscape involves a dedicated team of acoustic specialists.
The Electric Revolution: Crafting a New Soundscape
The arrival of electric vehicles (EVs) has created a new challenge for Porsche’s sound engineers. EVs are much quieter than their combustion counterparts and while this silence is beneficial for reducing noise pollution, it removes a crucial element of the driving experience: the roar of an engine.
Porsche’s response to this challenge has been nothing short of innovative.
“The sound of an oil pump, for example, may be overshadowed by the sound of the combustion engine in the overall structure of a vehicle and therefore play a subordinate role,” says David Sadowski, an acoustic engineer at Porsche. “In an electric vehicle, the oil pump suddenly becomes a relevant factor in the vehicle’s sound design, as the electric motor operates much quieter and masks fewer background sounds — we then have to adjust it so that we can create the typical Porsche sound.”
Using advanced software and simulation tools, Sadowski and his colleagues can predict and analyze how different design elements will influence the car’s sound.
The Taycan, be it the Cross Turismo or sedan, exemplifies this new era of sound design. Engineers developed a unique acoustic profile for the Taycan, known as Porsche Electric Sport Sound. This artificial sound is designed to provide auditory feedback to the driver, enhancing the sensation of speed and performance.
Porsche Electric Sport Sound isn’t a random collection of noises but a thoughtful soundscape that evolves with the vehicle's speed and acceleration. It combines mechanical sounds, such as the whirring of electric motors, with synthesized elements that evoke a sense of power and dynamism. The result is a sound that feels natural and engaging, maintaining the emotional connection between the driver and vehicle.
There’s no arguing that the electric motor of the Taycan sounds exactly like its combustion counterparts. It’s not. But Porsche engineers have made our EVs sound just as powerful and recognizable in their own right.