Overview
- Researchers at Otto‑von‑Guericke University presented on Friday a lab‑validated proof of concept that fills existing cavities in electric‑vehicle power‑electronics with granulate made from recycled car tyres to reduce audible high‑frequency tones.
- Laboratory measurements showed the overall sound pressure level from 100–10,000 Hz fell from 57.7 to 53.2 decibels, the 800–1,100 Hz band dropped by 6.5 dB, and vibrations of a component cover fell by up to 9.7 dB.
- The damping works like sand in a rattle: loose granulate particles move and absorb vibrational energy so less sound radiates from the electronic housing.
- The method avoids adding heavy damping mats that would raise vehicle mass and cut range, and it offers a circular‑economy use for millions of end‑of‑life tyres, but adoption depends on durability, safety, manufacturing fit and testing in real vehicles.
- The work sits against current noise rules that require AVAS tones at low speeds and a possible upcoming EU norm on exterior artificial sounds, factors that could change whether manufacturers prioritise quieter electronics or engineered exterior sound.