SHERIDAN, WYOMING – September 15, 2024 – Renault Group and Bruitparif, the noise observatory for the Île-de-France region, have joined forces to enhance the acoustic quality of roads, aiming to protect the health of local residents and reduce the environmental impact of vehicles. This partnership builds on a successful trial conducted in 2023 in the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines area.
Mapping Road Acoustics for Targeted Action
The collaboration will leverage Renault Group's innovative Apache2 technology to create the first-ever detailed map of road acoustics in the Île-de-France region. Around thirty Megane E-Tech electric vehicles, equipped with sensors and the Apache device, will measure noise levels on the roads they travel over a two-year period.
Road noise is a significant issue, impacting the health and well-being of millions of people. It's linked to sleep disturbances, daily discomfort, and even an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. By mapping road acoustics, local authorities can gain a better understanding of pavement conditions and prioritize repairs in areas with high noise levels and heavy traffic, particularly near sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.
Technology Driving Positive Change
Thomas Antoine, Renault Group's Expert Leader for Noise and Vibration, highlighted the potential of this partnership: "This partnership with Bruitparif will provide invaluable assistance to towns and local authorities for whom the road repair strategy is a major challenge and an important part of their budget. Our Apache innovation shows that technology can actually help improve society. By taking an interest in non-traditional areas of the automotive industry, it is even possible to create new value chains for Renault Group."
Apache: A Game-Changer in Noise Measurement
Traditional methods for measuring road noise are costly and logistically complex, often requiring lane closures and specialized equipment. Renault Group's Apache technology transforms vehicles into sensors, enabling automatic and seamless noise measurements in real-world traffic conditions. This data, combined with information on traffic patterns and sensitive areas, will create a comprehensive map of road acoustics, empowering local authorities to make informed decisions about road repairs.
A Win for Health and the Environment
Improved road acoustics will not only benefit public health but also contribute to a greener environment. Smoother roads reduce rolling resistance, leading to lower energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and tire abrasion from all vehicles.
Olivier Blond, President of Bruitparif, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: "Joining forces with Renault Group, and benefiting from its Apache technology, will enable us to significantly improve the accuracy and quality of the strategic noise maps we produce for the 14 Île-de-France conurbations responsible for implementing European Directive 2002/49/EC. They will enable us to identify sectors with deteriorated pavements, heavy traffic, a large number of local residents and/or the presence of schools, health establishments, etc., and which should therefore be considered by local authorities as priority sectors for pavement repairs."
About Renault Group and Bruitparif
Renault Group is a global automotive company committed to sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. Bruitparif is the noise observatory for the Île-de-France region, dedicated to improving the noise environment and combating noise pollution.
This partnership between Renault Group and Bruitparif demonstrates a shared commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society, creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all.