Factors determining the quality of vehicle exterior noise

The aim of the European research project SVEN (Sound Quality of Vehicle Exterior Noise, G6RD-CT-1999-00113) is the development of new methods for the assessment of exterior noise of single vehicles as well as - in the sum - the resulting traffic noise. Objective descriptors based on subjective evaluation and measurements of physiological reactions have been developed. The results allow further investigations in comparison to the usual determination of the A-weighted sound pressure level under standardized pass-by conditions (ISO 362). More detailed and comprehensive statements about the sound quality of exterior noise can be achieved. Research has been performed on the question in which way the single vehicle components influence the dominating elements of the exterior noise. The previously introduced procedure for the synthesis of pass-by noise from the single components has been tested on modified vehicles. The results and their effects on future vehicle exterior noise will be presented and discussed.