Mumbai, Sept. 26 -- In a move to address one of the key challenges facing the electric vehicle industry, automotive supplier Valeo and French engineering school Arts et Metiers are expanding their strategic partnership to focus on quieting electric powertrains.

After a successful seven-year collaboration, the two organisations are launching a new industrial research chair dedicated to the 'vibro-acoustics of electric powertrains.' The goal is to develop innovative solutions to manage and reduce the distinctive, high-pitched noise often associated with electric motors and gearboxes.

While the silent nature of electric vehicles is a major selling point, residual noises from the powertrain can be unpleasant for passengers and undermine thi...