Concept BMW Features its Own Soundtrack

The automaker is working with famed composer Hans Zimmer on a series of "sound worlds."

 

Along with 500+ horsepower and a 370-mile range, BMW’s all-electric i4 concept is experimenting with a customized soundtrack from award-winning composer Hans Zimmer.

The German automaker sees these mini scores as “sound worlds” that will play when the doors open, the car starts, and as it drives along the road.

The tones are meant to compensate for the EV’s lack of a rumbling engine and other noises long associated with driving a vehicle. Zimmer argues that for many, the silence is unnerving — especially at speed. 

Earlier this month, a prototype demonstrated unique compositions for each of the i4’s three driving modes: Core, Sport and Efficient. 

BMW hopes to expand beyond the concept mode by next year, rolling out Zimmer’s sounds on more than two dozen electric vehicles.

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