Road noise reduction promises ‘nearly silent’ cabin environment in engine-free fuel cell electric and electric models.

Hyundai Motor Group has announced the development of “the world’s first” Road Noise Active Noise Control (RANC) system. RANC builds on Hyundai’s current Active Noise Control (ANC) technology to greatly improve in-cabin quietness. 

The new technology can analyze various types of noise in real-time and produce inverted sound waves. A microphone constantly monitors road noise, and RANC is able to combat road noise for the driver’s seat, the passenger seat and rear seats separately.

Hyundai says this technology can can potentially decrease the amount of unsprung weight in a vehicle by allowing the manufacturer to use fewer sound-insulating parts and dampers.

“RANC is a remarkable technology which takes existing NVH technology to the next level,” said Gangdeok Lee, a Research Fellow of NVH Research Lab, “We will continue to take the leading position of NVH technology and deliver the highest level of quietness to customers.”

Hyundai says the technology will debut in a future Genesis model.