Just for curiosity sake, I downloaded a free decibel app for my phone and checked how loud the EV sound was in comparison to HV sound. Suffice it to say, EV mode was significantly quieter as you would imagine. Sound in decibels ranges from 60 dcb at 25 mph to 67 dcb at 60 mph. I viewed a YouTube video testing Tesla Model S in same speeds ranges from 62 - 67/68 at same speeds. The model 3 readings were slightly higher. HV mode significantly louder sadly when pushing car to accelerate - 80+ dcb. So pretty impressive sound deadening on EV mode.
I was wondering about this, especially since some of the Prime reviews mentioned "road noise" being one of the "cons." Sounds like the Prime is actually pretty good... in EV mode. Thanks!
Yes, in the case of our P.Prime, drive-train sound is minuscule compared to that of the Bridgestone Ecopia Plus tires. Those tires are amazingly fuel-efficient — EV or HV. However, they play road-surface texture like a phonograph needle! On a smooth road surface, they and the entire car in EV mode especially, is very quiet, but get it out on a rough road surface, and it sounds pretty raucous!
In terms of cushioning bumps, I’d say they’re “decent.” I find the P.Prime’s suspension to be smoother than our 2009 Prius’ suspension. I imagine that the battery in the rear adds a little inertia — resistance to up/down motion.
