How Maserati Is Bringing The Thunderous V8 Symphony to the Electric Era
In an era where the automotive industry is rapidly pivoting to electric vehicles (EVs), the auditory experience of driving is undergoing a significant transformation. As we bid farewell to the internal combustion engine, we likewise part with one of the most visceral elements of the driving experience: the sound. However, Maserati, the storied Italian automaker, is not ready to give up on that heritage just yet. They're on a mission to ensure that the transition to electric doesn't silence the passion that engines like their iconic V8 have sparked in enthusiasts across the globe.
Electric vehicles, with their silent operation and environmentally friendly credentials, represent the future of motoring. Yet, for many, something vital is missing: the soul-stirring rumble of a gasoline engine. The noise of a car, particularly one with a rich history like Maserati's, is more than just auditory feedback; it's an integral part of the vehicle's identity. It's this philosophy that has led Maserati to embark on an ambitious project to recreate its signature V8 engine sound for its electric future.
The Symphony of Power: Maserati's Innovative Solution
Last week marked a new chapter for Maserati with the unveiling of the GranCabrio Folgore, their latest foray into the electric vehicle market. This convertible supercar, with a top speed of 180 mph, isn't just a marvel of electric propulsion; it's also a testament to Maserati's commitment to maintaining the emotive connection between driver and machine. The team behind the GranCabrio Folgore has engineered a unique auditory experience: a sound that ties the legacy of their V8 engines to the electric future.
"The sound experience in driving a Maserati is very much a foundation, it’s very important," explains Davide Danesin, head of Maserati engineering. The development of this new soundscape was no small feat. It required the engineering team to delve deep into the electrical currents that power the vehicle’s heart, seeking insights into how these currents could be harnessed to replicate the vehicle's emotive range. The result? A bespoke sound that emanates from the vehicle, designed to be as dynamic and engaging as the driving experience itself.
Engineering Emotion: The Creation of the Folgore Sound
The approach was both novel and technical. By analyzing the electricity flowing through the inverter, the engineers could understand how the car was performing in real time, whether accelerating, braking, or idling. This data provided the foundation for what would become the Folgore sound, a sonic signature that resonates with the power and performance of Maserati's V8 legacy.
Yet, it's not simply about playing an amplified engine noise through speakers. The team sought a sound that would enhance the electric driving experience, avoiding the high-pitched whine often associated with electric motors. In their search, they turned to one of their most flamboyant signatures, the V8's roar, as the base for their electric symphony. This sound is now a defining feature of Maserati's electric vehicle lineup, played through up to 21 speakers in partnership with Italian hi-fi brand, Sonus Faber.
Driving Forward: The Sound of the Future
As Maserati moves forward into the EV market with models like the GranCabrio Folgore, GranTurismo Folgore, and Grecale Folgore, they carry with them a piece of their storied past. The dedication to maintaining the emotive connection through sound is a testament to Maserati's commitment to its heritage, even as it embraces the future. In the landscape of electric vehicles, where silence has been a point of contention, Maserati stands out by ensuring that their cars will never whisper into obscurity.
The initiative by Maserati to bridge the gap between the electric future and its V8 heritage is not just about preserving sound for nostalgia's sake. It's about enriching the electric driving experience, making it as thrilling and engaging as any drive has ever been. In a world hurtling towards an electric future, Maserati proves that soul, passion, and tradition can coexist with innovation and sustainability. The thunderous roar of a Maserati V8 may be evolving, but it's far from extinct. It's merely entering a new, electrifying era.