The Tesla Model 3 Performance gets its supercar exhaust note from a Milltek Sport ‘active sound system’
Tesla Inc might not be the most favourite car manufacturer among ‘proper’ automotive enthusiasts, but one cannot deny that the California-based company has set a high benchmark in the field of electric mobility. The most affordable product from Tesla, Model 3 is a well-rounded package (especially in ‘Performance’ avatar). In fact, the EV showcases stiff competition against ICE alternatives carrying substantially higher price tags.
As a famous automotive YouTuber coins it, the Tesla Model 3 is full of “quirks and features”. However, this particular Model 3 Performance places the bar a bit higher. It is equipped with an ‘active sound system’ developed by Milltek Sport — one of the leading performance exhaust manufacturers in the world. The system can make the EV sound like a V12 supercar. Check out the video by Archie Hamilton Racing to know more:
Yes, it’s a strong example of modern-day automotive gimmickry but does it really matter? Tesla products have always stood apart in the way it presents itself to its ‘user’. From the popular ‘Insane’ and ‘Ludicrous’ modes to onboard video games, Teslas have had a certain way of making the overall experience fun rather than being direct and dull (of course, we are not talking about the driving part).
Coming back to Milltek Sport’s active sound system, the unit is not merely a speaker which funnels fake exhaust notes (there are many cars that do). Instead, it is a sound generator kit fitted under the vehicle to replicate exhaust notes in the most convincing way. The characteristics of the note can be adjusted using a dedicated smartphone app. Currently, the system has only a few exhaust notes on offer. Milltek Sport will be providing more choices in the future via OTA updates. At a price tag of roughly GBP 1,200 in the UK (more than Rs 1 lakh), the sound output is quite linear to blend with the EV’s shift-free powertrain.
Premium or performance-focused EVs work best with a “sci-fi” noise rather than being dead silent. For instance, Porsche’s Taycan Turbo S has got a very satisfying motor whine which is amplified in top driving modes. The sound is artificial but goes really well with the car.
In the Model S, X, 3 or Y, the motor note need not be that obvious. Their styling is not desperately trying to be different from regular ICE examples either (Tesla’s Cybertruck is a terrible shift though). For the same reason, one can live with Teslas sporting artificial ICE exhaust notes in the world of CDI AMGs and 320i M3s.
