Noise, vibration, harshness
Ricardo’s cross-discipline expertise in Noise, Vibration and Harshness, powertrain technologies and integration ensures future vehicles will meet customer demands. Our state-of-the-art simulation and test facilities support a more efficient route to market.
NVH services for ICE and xEV
Ricardo has been a leader in NVH development and harshness for over 50 years. We deliver class leading NVH solutions to meet the exacting requirements of our customers and product legislation. We provide a range of services including the development of systems for electric vehicles.
Ricardo’s cross discipline expertise in NVH, powertrain technologies and integration ensures clients’ future vehicles meet the demands of their customers.
From product concept development through to production, we deliver class leading NVH solutions to meet the exacting requirements of our customers and product legislation.
Ricardo’s NVH process ensure consideration at all stages of product development. Model based analysis tools are used to front load NVH optimisation, balance, and other fast track project delivery.
NVH is evaluated against scatter bands and targets based on an extensive database to support benchmarking of class leading powertrains, including ICE, hybrid, and full electric.
Utilising Ricardo’s in-house test facilities, we can accurately measure NHV phenomena for efficient benchmarking, development testing and validation
Facilities comprise three powertrain semi-anechoic test cells, vehicle anechoic test facility (modal analysis room, vehicle workshop and semi-anechoic chassis dyno) exterior noise track and listening room (multi-media suite).
The RAS-R system provides electronic augmentation of internal combustion or electric power unit sound quality using live streaming authentic sound sources, rich in genuine information content.
The live authentic sound linked directly to the xEV powertrain to deliver an interior driver experience in line with brand expectation, whilst ensuring exterior pedestrian safety requirements are met. The system integrates multiple authentic sound layers to build a sound signature that signals the cars operating status.
Within the rail sector, we provide clients with NVH support and analysis from early design stages through to emerging in-service issues. Previous assignments include helping a global rolling stock manufacturer comply with noise and vibration regulations in local markets, and advising the US Federal Railroad Administration on comparitive international high-speed noise reduction measures.

Why Ricardo for noise, vibration and harshness solutions?
Well defined processes
With over 40 years of NVH testing experience, Ricardo has developed well defined processes for hybrid and electrified vehicle and powertrain NVH analysis, drawing on gained experience to support the needs of clients.
Test, analysis and benchmarking
Utilising state of the art facilities, including three flexible powertrain semi-anechoic test cells, Ricardo supports testing across road - including passenger and heavy duty vehicles - aerospace, marine and rolling stock.
Extensive capabilities
Ricardo provides NVH simulation capabilities including intake and exhaust, base engine, powertrain mounting, driveline, e-machine, pass-by, road noise and gear whine
Markets
This service is offered within the following sectors.
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