(Don't) Bring the Noise

摘要

The pressure is on automakers to make vehicles lighter and more fuel-efficient. The results have created new engineering challenges around controlling noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Increased power to weight ratios, engine downsizing and the switch between power sources in hybrid vehicles are creating more audible noise for drivers. Smaller engines generally create more noise, and automakers have compounded this issue by adding more turbochargers and superchargers, which further increase NVH problems. New materials have also altered the way noise and vibrations pass through the vehicle structure.