Electric motorcycle company, Brammo, just released this promotional video for their upcoming superbike, the Empulse. It uses an AC induction motor, exclusive 6 speed transmission and lithium ion batteries for a top speed over 100 mph and a range over 100 miles. The production models start shipping in May. Prices start at $10k for the 6 kwh model to $14k for the top of the line 10 kwh model with the only difference being the battery capacity.
DesignBoom.com followed Audi sound engineers as they created a unique voice for the upcoming Audi E-Tron electric vehicle. The challenge was to create a unique sound for the car so that pedestrians could hear it coming. The electric motor that drives the car is almost silent at low speeds. The sound had to be unmistakable as an electric vehicle and change pitch with the motor rpm’s to give the impression of acceleration.
On a similar note, the sound given to The Batpod in The Dark Knight Rises is based off of a Tesla Roadster on a dyno. Director Christopher Nolan wanted the pod to sound like it was always surging and unstoppable.