Automaker planning cars with “oscillating body structures” to create “emotional connection” with drivers
Automakers are all scrambling for ways to sell us on EVs. There’s a ton of work going into replicating the “emotional connection” buyers have with their traditional ICE cars. Solutions range from illogical (a Hyundai with paddle shifters that will bounce you off a pretend rev limiter if you forget to “shift”) to ridiculous (Dodge’s bumper-mounted subwoofer that rattles your neighborhood with synthetic engine noise). But Aston Martin may take the cake with EVs that…vibrate.
I know what you’re thinking. No, this isn’t some massaging seat Q-branch engineered to give happy endings. And yes, Aston Martin insists on using vaguely NSFW phrasing such as “oscillating body structures” and “emotional connection” with your EV car. So get your chuckles out now and read on for the full scoop.
Ever known a baby who would spend hours crying and not sleeping, but one ride around the block in the family car and they’re off to dreamland? Here’s the theory: The way your internal combustion engine shakes your entire car is barely perceptible, but is supremely soothing. It’s almost like your car is a living thing giving you a great big hug.
Aston Martin’s plan for an “oscillating” EV
Aston Martin’s putting the above theory to the test with its upcoming EV. Here’s what Adrian Hallmark, Aston Martin CEO had to say.
“If you mapped the telemetry of the V12 engine from the Valkyrie, or even the engine from the race version, measured the frequencies and built those into the body structure of the vehicle, linked them to the throttle position and suppressed the electrical frequency noises, you would feel exactly like you were in a Valkyrie or another 12-cylinder car. So I believe without fake noises but by actually oscillating body structures and other structures with the frequencies that you get from a combustion powertrain, you can create an emotional connection.”
That’s right. While the past 100 years of automotive design has engineered engine mountains suspension points to decrease vibration, we may soon go in the opposite direction. Aston Martin plans on “agitating” the body structures of its future EVs to replicate internal combustion cars. If nothing else, the next generation of Astons may be good for putting the baby down.
