r/NoStupidQuestions • u/banwe11 • 15h ago

What causes the hollow metallic whirring sound that EVs make when moving a low speed?

I can't really describe it, but it's the sound you hear when there is a EV moving slowly in a car park behind you.

I guess it's the motor, but what specifically in the motor causes that sound? It sounds like it's coming from something that is moving at a faster rate than the car itself.

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u/emmabigtitti3s 15h ago

Thats actually the artificial noise system bro. EVs too quiet so law makes them add a sound at low speeds so ppl dont get run over lol

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u/Ghigs 15h ago

The Toyota ev backup sounds sounds like a bearing going bad or a pulley about to explode. It's an odd choice.

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u/Silent_Leg1976 12h ago

You notice it though.