Electric Cars

Ferrari is set to redefine the auditory experience in electric vehicles with its groundbreaking Elettrica, their first all-electric model. Departing from conventional fake engine sounds, the luxury automaker has engineered a unique system that amplifies the authentic vibrations of the electric powertrain. This innovative approach, inspired by the mechanics of an electric guitar, aims to provide drivers with crucial real-time feedback, fostering a deeper connection between the car and its operator. This forward-thinking strategy not only embraces the inherent characteristics of electric propulsion but also seeks to captivate traditional petrol-heads, potentially easing their transition into the EV era by delivering a genuinely engaging and performance-oriented soundscape.

This bold move signifies Ferrari's commitment to preserving the emotional essence of driving, even as it pivots towards an electric future. By focusing on the inherent sounds of the electric motor rather than artificial simulations, Ferrari differentiates itself from other manufacturers who often rely on curated soundscapes or V8 engine mimicry. The Elettrica's sound system, developed in-house, will be activated during specific driving conditions, such as acceleration or manual mode shifts, ensuring that acoustic comfort is maintained during normal operation. This nuanced integration of sound is a testament to Ferrari's dedication to driver feedback and an authentic performance experience, promising to be a significant draw for discerning enthusiasts.

Embracing Authentic Electric Acoustics

Ferrari is making a significant shift in its approach to electric vehicle sound with the Elettrica, its inaugural all-electric car. Instead of using artificial engine noises, the company is focusing on creating an "authentic" sound directly from the electric motors. This unique method involves amplifying the actual vibrations produced by the drivetrain components, drawing an analogy to how an electric guitar transforms string vibrations into audible sound. This ensures that the auditory feedback is genuine and reflective of the car's true performance, offering a novel and engaging experience for drivers.

This innovative strategy is a departure from many legacy automakers who have struggled to replicate the traditional combustion engine roar in EVs. Ferrari's NVH and sound quality head, Antonio Palermo, explained that this solution was developed after extensive internal discussions, driven by a desire for authenticity. An accelerometer mounted on the rear axle captures these subtle vibrations, which are then amplified and projected into the surroundings. This allows the car to communicate critical information about torque requests, motor acceleration, and regeneration to the driver in real-time, creating a dynamic and responsive audio landscape that enhances the driving experience without resorting to artificial effects. The system is designed to activate only when functionally useful, prioritizing acoustic comfort during normal driving but engaging the driver with motor sounds during spirited driving or manual shifts.

The 'Electric Guitar' Philosophy: A New Auditory Dimension

Ferrari's decision to reject simulated engine sounds for its first EV, the Elettrica, marks a fresh and intriguing direction for the automotive industry. The company has opted for an "authentic" electric powertrain sound, generated directly from the electric motors themselves, drawing inspiration from the operational principles of an electric guitar. This innovative approach promises to deliver a genuine auditory experience that is intrinsically linked to the vehicle's performance, aiming to entice even the most skeptical traditional car enthusiasts to explore the world of electric vehicles. This strategy highlights Ferrari's commitment to an immersive driving experience, maintaining the brand's performance-focused ethos in the electric era.

The core of Ferrari's sound engineering lies in capturing and amplifying the intrinsic vibrations of the Elettrica's drivetrain components. Unlike acoustic guitars that rely on a hollow body for resonance, an electric drive unit typically produces minimal sound. To overcome this, Ferrari employs a high-precision accelerometer on the rear axle, specifically on the inverter casting, to detect solid-borne vibrations. These vibrations, which are directly indicative of the motor's activity, are then amplified and projected externally, creating a distinct and authentic acoustic signature for the Elettrica. This system provides critical, non-perceivable latency feedback to the driver, detailing RPM, load, and the car's operational status. The sound is selectively activated, only engaging when the driver demands torque through acceleration or uses shift paddles, ensuring that acoustic comfort is maintained during serene drives while an engaging sound profile is delivered during dynamic driving moments. This entirely in-house developed system ensures Ferrari retains full control over the Elettrica's unique sound identity, setting a new benchmark for emotional engagement in electric performance cars.

General Motors has announced a significant shift in its approach to supporting electric vehicle affordability. Initially, the company intended to extend the federal $7,500 EV tax credit through a leasing program for its Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac models, particularly for vehicles in transit before the September 30 cutoff. However, GM has now reversed this plan. Instead of relying on the federal incentive, the automaker will directly invest its own funds, offering approximately $6,000 in savings to customers who lease its electric vehicles. This new, internally funded initiative aims to maintain competitive pricing and continued accessibility for consumers in the EV market, albeit for a limited duration.

This change in strategy by General Motors comes shortly after the expiration of the federal $7,500 EV tax credit at the end of September. Many automakers, including GM, had explored methods to prolong this incentive, with leasing emerging as a viable option. The plan involved automakers purchasing EVs through their financing divisions, thereby qualifying for the tax credit, and then passing those savings on to consumers through lease agreements. However, GM's recent announcement indicates a departure from this approach, as the company has decided against claiming the tax credit themselves.

A spokesperson for General Motors confirmed that the company had initially worked on an extended offer to benefit both customers and dealers. However, after careful consideration, the decision was made not to pursue the federal tax credit for these lease programs. Instead, GM will independently cover the incentive lease terms through the end of the current month, October. This move allows the company to directly manage the savings offered to its customers, bypassing the complexities and potential political scrutiny associated with the federal incentive loophole.

Reports suggest that this reversal may be linked to pressure from political figures. A source close to the matter indicated that GM's decision to discontinue its participation in the extended tax credit program followed an appeal from Republican Senator Bernie Moren. Senator Moren had reportedly urged for the closure of the loophole that permitted the $7,500 credit to be transferred to consumers via leasing arrangements. This political intervention appears to have influenced GM's pivot towards a self-funded incentive structure.

Despite this shift in incentive strategy, General Motors has been experiencing strong performance in the electric vehicle sector. The company recently reported a record delivery of over 66,500 electric vehicles in the third quarter alone. Year-to-date through September, GM has sold an impressive 144,668 EVs, more than double the volume achieved during the same period in the previous year. Notably, the Chevy Equinox EV has emerged as the best-selling non-Tesla electric vehicle in the United States, and Cadillac has secured its position as the leading luxury electric vehicle brand in Q3.

While GM has altered its plan, other major automotive players like Ford, Stellantis (parent company of Jeep), and BMW are reportedly continuing with their programs to extend the EV tax credit for leases for several more months. GM had initially been expected to maintain its extended offer until the year's end. Furthermore, GM is actively focusing on making electric vehicles more accessible, exemplified by the Chevy Equinox EV, which starts at under $35,000, making it one of the most affordable EVs in the US. Looking ahead, the company is preparing for the arrival of new, lower-priced EV models, including the 2027 Chevy Bolt, as part of its strategy to capture a larger share of the evolving electric vehicle market.

General Motors has opted to independently fund customer incentives for electric vehicle leases, rather than extending the federal $7,500 tax credit through its previous program. This strategic adjustment sees GM providing approximately $6,000 in savings directly to consumers for a limited period this month. The decision to forgo the federal tax credit follows internal review and comes amid political discussions regarding the leasing loophole. Despite this change, GM continues to demonstrate robust growth in its EV sales, with models like the Chevy Equinox EV leading market segments. The company remains committed to expanding its electric vehicle offerings and making them more affordable in the coming years.