Sound solutions for cars and heavy-duty commercial vehicles

One of the key noise issues in vehicles is structure-borne noise, which arises when vibrations from the engine, gearbox, wheels or road surface are transmitted through the chassis and bodywork. These vibrations are converted into audible sound within the cabin and may be experienced as a low-frequency rumble or resonance.

The challenge for Antiphon and the automotive industry is to reduce the transmission of these vibrations without increasing weight or compromising the vehicle’s performance.

Airborne noise refers to sound that spreads through the air – for example, from the engine, tyres or traffic – which penetrates through doors, windows, seals and ventilation systems. Reflections of sound within the cabin can also contribute to a disruptive acoustic environment.

To prevent airborne sounds, such as engine or road noise, Antiphon provides sound insulating and sealing materials like antiphon® LT-F. These materials are used in doors, floors, panels and seals to stop noise entering the cabin through joints and gaps. They also act as thermal and moisture insulation, contributing to a stable and comfortable interior climate.

To reduce reflections and create a better acoustic environment, sound-absorbing products such as antiphon® LA™ and LA LV are also used.

Aerodynamic noise arises when air moves around the vehicle body, especially at higher speeds. Sources can include wing mirrors, roof racks, windscreens or body joints where air turbulence creates noise. Antiphon addresses aerodynamic noise by offering materials and solutions that dampen and insulate sound generated as air flows around the vehicle's bodywork. Since this noise often enters as airborne sound through doors, panels and seals, Antiphon's products focus on absorbing, insulating and sealing to reduce the transmission of noise into the cabin.

The quieter electric motor in the automotive industry makes other sounds besides engine noise more noticeable. Road noise, fan sounds, cooling pumps and high-frequency tones from electric motors and electronics become more pronounced in quieter cabins. Therefore, electric vehicles require new solutions, such as advanced damping materials, vibration isolation and active sound control to achieve a pleasant noise level.