Mini to equip all-electric models with unique sound modes

Mini announced that it will soon equip its all-electric models with unique sound modes.

While many would agree that one of the selling points of an electric vehicle (EV) is its quietness, Mini believes that making distinct sound modes available to the driver can make for a more immersive experience.

The soon-to-be-available repertoire of sounds will be heard inside and outside the vehicle and will — as Mini explained — make the cars more distinguishable.

“The new sounds are an integral part of the digital experience and individually tailored to the character of each of the new models. They make an emotive appeal to the passengers in the interior while shaping the acoustic perception of the outside world. They also make it sound as well as look as unmistakably a Mini,” Head of Mini Design Oliver Heilmer commented.

According to Mini, four sound modes will be available for a driver to choose from, namely Core, Go Kart, Timeless, and Balance.

Core will be the default sound mode and is described as “inviting, energetic, and inspiring.”

“The new sound design for Mini is inspired by Nicolaus Copernicus, who depicts the heliocentric view of the world in which the planets revolve around the sun. We drew inspiration from the round shape of the OLED central display for the ‘Core’ driving sound. It reminds us of the sun radiating warmth. In an analogy to the planets, which each reflect the sunlight in their own way, we designed different sound components that vary depending on the driving situation,” BMW Group Creative Sound Director Renzo Vitale revealed in a statement.

Go Kart, on the other hand, features strongly pronounced pitch and load curves, forming a fitting sound backdrop for agile and dynamic driving.

Meanwhile, Timeless offers a tone derived from the classic Mini and the Mini ohn Cooper Works GP. In this mode, the more intensively the vehicle accelerates, the more the sound morphs from the internal combustion engine past to the purely electric present.

Lastly, Balance gives a sense of relaxation and well-being on board the future Mini models. Per Mini, Balance is based on the sounds experienced in a forest at different times of the day and night: from the babbling of a stream to the chirping of crickets and the rustling of the wind in the treetops.

All of the said sound modes will debut in the new Mini Cooper Electric.

Photos from Mini

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