VW Unveils ID.3’s Artificial Driving Sound, So Have A Listen

Since it’s the law that all new electric vehicles must feature an artificial driving sound so as to alert pedestrians and cyclists, VW enlisted the cooperation of composer Leslie Mandoki in order to give the ID.3 a fake voice.

In the future, all ID models with come with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS), making noise when the car accelerates to speeds of up to 30 km/h (18.6 mph), and when reversing.

Use the audio widget below to listen to the futuristic hum, or click here to download it.

The ID.3’s AVAS can be heard both outside and inside the vehicle, with occupants hearing different stages of the driving sound based on speed and accelerator pedal position. Beyond 30 km/h, the car’s own rolling resistance and driving noise take over.

“An electric vehicle’s sound defines its identity. The sound should be confident and likeable. It may well sound futuristic and must also impress with its unique character,” said Dr. Frank Welsch, chief development officer at VW.

Also read: The VW ID.3 Will Communicate With Occupants Via A Clever LED Strip

Meanwhile, design boss Klaus Bischoff had this to add: “Thanks to their sound, electric vehicles are given their own voice that we can design ourselves regardless of mechanical sounds. The ID.3 radiates safety and the promise of effortless mobility: It will take us everywhere.”

After listening to the audio file a bunch of times, we’re left with the impression that the AVAS in the ID.3 sounds a lot better than, for example, the 2020 Karma Revero GT’s pedestrian noisemaker. But what do you think?