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Electric vehicles (EVs) have brought significant advancements to automotive design, but they’ve also created new challenges—one of which is wind noise. With engines becoming nearly silent and tyre manufacturers minimising road noise for EVs, wind noise now stands out as a critical area of focus. To tackle this, BMW has unveiled its cutting-edge Aeroacoustics and E-Drive Centre (AEC), featuring the world’s largest standing wind tunnel of its kind. Designed with meticulous soundproofing and equipped with a state-of-the-art acoustic camera comprising 216 microphones, the AEC allows engineers to pinpoint and measure noise with unmatched precision.
The wind tunnel itself is a marvel of engineering. Stretching 100 metres in length, 45 metres in height, and 25 metres in width, it houses a massive 25-square-metre fan capable of generating wind speeds of up to 155 mph. This facility is large enough to accommodate even the largest vehicles in the BMW Group’s portfolio, such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom and BMW X7. It features advanced tools like a laser vibrometer and an acoustic all-wheel chassis dynamometer. Modules include a glass driving surface and a specialised weighing scale for motorcycles for additional versatility.
BMW has gone to great lengths to ensure the tunnel remains acoustically pristine. The soundproofed design includes a three-metre-thick floor to block external noise and a reflection-free surface that prevents sound reverberation. Engineers can simulate real-world driving conditions to evaluate aeroacoustic performance, ensuring quieter and more refined experiences for EV passengers.
The AEC isn’t just about noise control—it’s a hub for future mobility innovation. Adjacent to the wind tunnel is a sprawling facility dedicated to electromobility. This 15,000-square-metre building focuses on developing and testing high-voltage batteries and inverters under clean-room conditions. BMW’s commitment to technological excellence shines through in every detail of this centre, which exemplifies the company’s dedication to setting new standards in premium vehicle design.
By combining groundbreaking research in aeroacoustics and electromobility, BMW is pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. The AEC is more than a milestone—it’s a glimpse into a future where EVs are quieter, smoother, and more advanced than ever before.
