Automotive engineers have been tackling unwanted vehicle noise for decades. Their focus consists of a combination of sounds and vibrations from a vehicle’s drivetrain, as well as ambient road noise from outside vehicles.

The shift from the internal combustion engine to batteries and electric motors is, in automotive terms, monumental. But, there is no denying that it's a challenge that manufacturers and suppliers are tackling head on.

Traditional OEMs face a challenge in the coming years as new competitors and fresh approaches to personal transportation appear. Daimler and Volvo are two of the old-guard leaders preparing for the new battle. According to recent interviews, full assaults on the IT (information technology) and safety fronts are just two of the highlighted strategies being deployed.

This year kicked off where 2018 finished when a huge number of developments were announced in autonomous and connected vehicles. The biggest platform for these reveals, demonstrations, and announcements was the CES 2019 Show in Las Vegas, which saw an unprecedented amount of automotive applications being showcased and a glimpse given to a world that is fast becoming a reality.