BMW Creates Sound System That Mimics Engine Noises

It appears that, in time, even diesel BMW 5-Series and 6-Series variants can sound like their range-topping counterparts, the M5 and M6. BMW engineers have found a way to manipulate the sounds that drivers perceive. In short, a torquey diesel engine can sound a lot like a high-revving petrol engine to the driver.

BMW is currently experimenting with two working prototypes, a MINI Clubman that produces four different engine notes, and a 635d that utilises an acoustic technology termed Active Sound Design. The technology is so effective that drivers perceived the 635d to offer better performance than cars of identical performance without the acoustic setup.

To almost completely keep out the natural engine note, the 635d's engine is “partially encompassed by an acoustic capsule”. The rest of the car uses lightweight sound and vibration dampening materials, put together using BMW's new “acoustic lightweight construction” methods. An artificial engine note is then played through the audio system.

“Today's diesel engines are capable of a lot. They're efficient, highly effective and high-torque, but until now they were lacking the right sound”, said Albert Kaltenhauser, the man in charge of improving upon the sound characteristics of diesel engines at BMW. “With Active Sound Design, they're finally achieving the sound that they deserve based on their performance characteristics”.