Thor Storm: The more accessible Active Sound System - Test

Over the years, THOR has established itself (in dozens of countries) as one of the leading players inActive Sound Systems on an international scale. The brand specialises in the development of electronic solutions capable of reproducing realistic, immersive and customisable engine sound, for internal combustion vehicles as well as hybrid and electric models.

With the arrival of new engines and the growing popularity of electric vehicles, THOR has developed its range to offer more targeted solutions. The Thor Storm is just such a product: a new generation of Active Sound, more accessible, but still true to the brand's technical DNA and philosophy.

Active Sound designed as an upgradeable entry point

With the Storm, THOR offers a more accessible approach to Active Sound, designed from the outset for electric vehicles. It's not a degraded model, but a scalable technical base capable of covering the essential uses while remaining compatible with more advanced configurations.

Acoustic role: priority to mid-range frequencies

The Thor Storm is the base speaker in the range. It concentrates on the mid-range frequencies, where the sonic character is built up, whether in terms of realistic thermal sounds or more futuristic signatures. A particularly coherent choice for a Tesla.

Storm vs Thunder: a difference in design, not quality

The main difference with the Thunder (Pro) is in the architecture of the speaker: plastic with an open diffuser for the Storm, metal for the Thunder. The internal driver is identical, so it's the design of the cabinet that directly influences the sound signature.

Simplified installation and modular logic

Lighter and less bulky, the Storm is easier to install and position under the vehicle. It can then be upgraded by adding an Echo module, a second loudspeaker or a mixed Storm + Thunder configuration. It's a modular approach that means you can start simply and grow over time.

Technical principle of Active Sound

The operation of an Active Sound System is based on constant interaction between the vehicle and the sound system. A dedicated electronic module is connected to the Tesla's CAN network, enabling it to retrieve the data essential to sound generation in real time: speed, acceleration, virtual engine load and driving modes.

This information is then processed by the THOR module, which instantly adapts the sound emitted by the loudspeaker. The aim is not to broadcast a fixed sound, but to reproduce dynamic sound behaviour, synchronised with driving. The whole system is controlled via the Thor EV application, which acts as both a tuning interface and a customisation centre.

Specific installation features on Tesla Model 3

On the Tesla Model 3 Performance, installation of the Active Sound system requires no major intervention. The CAN bus is accessed from the passenger compartment, without irreversibly modifying the original wiring harness. The Thor Storm loudspeaker is positioned at the rear of the vehicle, in an area that ensures effective sound diffusion to the outside.

No operation is carried out on the vehicle's high-voltage battery. The system is totally independent of the electric drive train, guaranteeing a safe installation that complies with the specific requirements of electric vehicles.

Finally, the entire system is reversible. The system can be dismantled without damaging the vehicle, then reinstalled on another compatible model. This is an important point for drivers who need to change their vehicle but want to keep their Active Sound configuration.

Beyond the hardware, the Active Sound experience is largely based on the Thor EV application. This controls the entire system, fine-tuning the sound rendition and adapting the sound behaviour to each driving situation.

The application gives access to several driving modes, generally geared towards more discreet urban use or more dynamic driving. Each mode can be customised: overall volume, sound intensity on acceleration, foot-off behaviour or sound presence at low speeds. The aim is to maintain a consistent, progressive sound, never artificial.

Thor EV also includes a library of sounds designed specifically for electric vehicles. It includes signatures inspired by iconic combustion engines as well as more futuristic sounds, better suited to the identity of an electric vehicle such as the Tesla Model 3. These profiles can be adjusted for a softer or more expressive sound, depending on the driver's preferences.

Finally, the application makes it quick and easy to manage the system on a day-to-day basis, by activating or deactivating the sound, changing profiles on the fly and saving settings. A central element that transforms Thor Storm into a genuine extension of the driving experience, rather than simply an additional sound device.

The Thor Storm test drive on the Tesla Model 3 Performance confirms a simple, well-balanced approach to sound, designed above all for everyday use. The system accompanies the driver without trying to do too much.

In town, the sound remains present but discreet, enough to give the car character and improve the perception of the vehicle by other road users. On the road, the sound becomes more expressive under acceleration, with a gradual and clean increase in intensity.

at high speeds, the Storm is naturally more discreet in the cabin, thanks to Tesla's excellent soundproofing. However, the system retains a sonic presence on the outside, in keeping with its predominantly urban and suburban use.

The choice between Thor Storm and Thor Pro (Thunder) is not based on a notion of 'better' or 'worse', but on use, the type of vehicle and the driver's expectations.

The Thor Storm is aimed above all at users who want to add character to their electric vehicle without going overboard. Its balanced mid-range sound, ease of installation and price positioning make it an ideal solution for everyday urban and suburban use. It's also the most logical choice for a first approach to Active Sound, with the possibility of upgrading the system later.

The Thor Pro, based on the Thunder metal loudspeaker, is aimed at a more demanding audience in terms of sound power. With its more demonstrative low-frequency orientation, it is aimed more at combustion-powered vehicles or drivers looking for a more punchy sound, particularly during sporty driving. It also lends itself better to advanced configurations, with dual speakers and an Echo module.

THOR's Active Sound solutions are available with or without installation, to suit both ready-made projects and complete installations carried out in an approved centre. The prices below are based on the Shiftech 2026 price list and provide a clear overview of each configuration, from the Storm entry point to more advanced set-ups.

These prices include the hardware for each configuration. Installation in an approved centre guarantees clean, safe installation and vehicle-specific settings. As THOR systems are modular, it is also possible to upgrade the installation over time, by adding components or options as required.

Installing an Active Sound System requires real technical expertise and a perfect understanding of the vehicle. That's why THOR solutions are installed in approved centres such as Shiftech.

When you have your system installed by Shiftech, you benefit from :

• a clean and secure installation, tailored to the vehicle's specific requirements

• customised settings to suit the driver's use and preferences

• technical support so that the configuration can be upgraded over time

Choosing a Shiftech centre means you can be sure of a coherent, durable solution that is perfectly suited to your vehicle.

Finally, with the Thor Storm, the Active Sound System finds a particularly coherent application on electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model 3 Performance. The system brings character and a controlled sound presence, without excess or compromising on everyday use.

Positioned as an accessible and upgradeable entry point, the Storm allows drivers to discover Active Sound under the right conditions, while leaving open the possibility of upgrading to more advanced configurations. It's the perfect solution for drivers who want to add an emotional dimension to their electric vehicle, with the support and expertise of a Shiftech approved centre.