Strategies for Reducing Booming Noise Generated by the Tailgate of an Electric Sport Utility Vehicle

Abstract

This article investigates the source of booming noise emanating from the tailgate of an electric sport utility vehicle (SUV), along with proposed strategies to mitigate it. This annoying low-frequency booming noise, which significantly impacts interior sound quality, is less perceptible in conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. However, this noise is more readily detected in electric SUVs, highlighting the necessity for focused measures to reduce it. This study involved the measurement of booming noises during on-road vehicle tests to pinpoint their origins. Additionally, ODSs were extracted from the tailgate vibration signals to gain insight into its dynamic behavior. Modal tests were conducted on the tailgate to determine its dynamic characteristics and compared with driving test results to reveal the mechanism responsible for tailgate-induced booming noise. It was established that such noise is primarily due to the tailgate modes, resulting from a combination of rigid body motion in the fore-aft direction and deformation in the central section of the panel. An analytical model of the tailgate was developed using commercial finite-element analysis software to propose measures for reducing booming noise. Experimental findings validated this model’s accuracy. Structural enhancements were implemented to enhance the panel stiffness and improve the connection between the vehicle and tailgate via bushings to reduce the booming noise resulting from tailgate motion. Under random force inputs, the analytical results demonstrated a 13.8% reduction in maximum deformation in the tailgate model in the improved structural configuration with increased panel stiffness. This study identifies the mechanism generating booming noise, establishes a practical and simple dynamic model, and proposes improvement measures aimed at reducing the booming noise. © 2023 by the authors.